Ethical consumerism is an increasingly relevant topic in today’s globalized world. As such, it has become a popular subject in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on our analysis of past IELTS exams and current trends, we anticipate that questions related to teaching ethical consumerism in schools will likely appear in future tests. Let’s examine a sample question and provide model essays for different band scores.
Some people think that schools should teach children about ethical consumerism and how to make responsible buying decisions. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analyzing the Question
This question asks for your opinion on whether schools should include ethical consumerism in their curriculum. It’s important to note that this is an agree/disagree question, so you need to clearly state your position and support it with relevant arguments and examples.
Key points to consider:
- The role of schools in shaping consumer behavior
- The importance of ethical consumerism in today’s society
- The age at which children should learn about responsible buying
- Potential benefits and drawbacks of teaching this subject in schools
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In today’s consumerist society, the importance of making ethical purchasing decisions cannot be overstated. I strongly believe that schools should play a pivotal role in educating children about ethical consumerism and equipping them with the skills to make responsible buying choices.
Firstly, integrating ethical consumerism into the school curriculum would help raise awareness about the environmental and social impacts of consumer choices from an early age. By teaching children about issues such as fair trade, sustainable production, and the environmental footprint of products, schools can foster a generation of conscientious consumers who consider the broader implications of their purchases. This knowledge is crucial in a world grappling with climate change, labor exploitation, and resource depletion.
Moreover, educating students about responsible buying decisions can empower them to become active citizens who drive positive change through their consumer behavior. When young people understand how their choices as consumers can influence corporate practices and global supply chains, they are more likely to use their purchasing power to support ethical businesses and sustainable products. This, in turn, can contribute to a more equitable and environmentally friendly global economy.
However, it is essential to implement this education in an age-appropriate manner. While younger children can be introduced to basic concepts of fairness and environmental care, more complex aspects of ethical consumerism should be reserved for older students who have developed critical thinking skills. Schools should strive to present balanced information, encouraging students to analyze various perspectives and make informed decisions rather than imposing specific viewpoints.
Some might argue that teaching ethical consumerism in schools could be seen as indoctrination or interfering with family values. Nevertheless, I contend that providing students with knowledge and analytical tools to navigate the complex world of consumer ethics is fundamentally different from prescribing specific behaviors. The goal should be to develop informed, critical thinkers who can make their own decisions based on a solid understanding of the issues at stake.
In conclusion, I firmly believe that schools have a responsibility to educate children about ethical consumerism. By doing so, they can help create a more informed and responsible consumer base that contributes to a more sustainable and just world. However, this education must be delivered in a balanced, age-appropriate manner that respects diverse perspectives and encourages critical thinking.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
I agree that schools should teach children about ethical consumerism and how to make responsible buying decisions. This is important because it can help create a better future for everyone.
One reason why schools should teach this topic is that it can help children understand the impact of their choices. When students learn about things like fair trade and environmental protection, they can see how their buying decisions affect other people and the planet. This knowledge can make them more careful about what they buy and use.
Another benefit is that learning about ethical consumerism can make children better citizens. If they know how to make good choices as consumers, they might be more likely to care about social and environmental issues when they grow up. This could lead to more people working to solve problems in society.
However, teaching this subject in schools might be challenging. Some parents might not agree with what is being taught, especially if it goes against their own beliefs or habits. Also, it might be hard to explain complex ideas about ethical consumerism to young children.
Despite these challenges, I think the benefits of teaching ethical consumerism in schools outweigh the drawbacks. Schools can start with simple ideas for younger children and gradually introduce more complex topics as students get older. They can also focus on giving students information and tools to think critically, rather than telling them exactly what to do.
In conclusion, I believe that schools should include ethical consumerism in their lessons. This can help create a generation of people who make better choices as consumers and care more about the world around them. However, it’s important to teach this subject in a balanced way that respects different opinions and encourages students to think for themselves.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
I think schools should teach children about ethical consumerism and how to buy things responsibly. This is a good idea because it can help make the world better.
One reason why this is important is because it helps children learn about the world. When they know about things like fair trade and protecting the environment, they can make better choices when they buy things. This can help other people and animals too.
Another good thing about teaching this in schools is that it can make children care more about others. If they learn about how their choices affect other people, they might want to help more when they grow up.
But there might be some problems with teaching this in schools. Some parents might not like it if the school teaches things they don’t agree with. Also, it might be hard for young children to understand some of these ideas.
Even though there are some problems, I still think schools should teach about ethical consumerism. They can start with easy ideas for young children and teach harder things to older students. They should also let students think for themselves and not just tell them what to do.
In conclusion, I agree that schools should teach children about ethical consumerism. This can help make the world a better place in the future. But schools need to be careful and teach this in a fair way.
Explaining the Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
This essay demonstrates a high level of language proficiency and critical thinking. It:
- Presents a clear position and develops it fully
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately
- Employs a variety of complex sentence structures
- Organizes ideas coherently with clear progression
- Addresses all parts of the task with well-developed arguments
- Provides relevant examples and explanations
Band 6-7 Essay:
This essay shows a good command of language but with some limitations. It:
- Presents a clear overall position
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary with some errors
- Attempts complex sentences but with mixed success
- Organizes ideas logically but with less sophistication
- Addresses the main parts of the task
- Provides some supporting ideas and examples
Band 5-6 Essay:
This essay demonstrates a modest level of language ability. It:
- Presents a basic position
- Uses limited vocabulary with noticeable errors
- Relies mostly on simple sentence structures
- Shows some organization but may lack overall coherence
- Addresses the task in a general way
- Provides limited development of ideas and examples
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Ethical consumerism (noun) /ˌeθɪkəl kənˈsjuːmərɪzəm/: The practice of purchasing products and services that are produced in a way that minimizes social and/or environmental damage.
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Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources or causing ecological damage.
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Fair trade (noun) /feə treɪd/: A system of trading that ensures producers in developing countries receive fair payment and have good working conditions.
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Environmental footprint (noun) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈfʊtprɪnt/: The impact of human activities on the environment, especially in terms of resource consumption and pollution.
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Supply chain (noun) /səˈplaɪ tʃeɪn/: The network of organizations involved in the production and distribution of a product.
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Conscientious (adjective) /ˌkɒnʃiˈenʃəs/: Wishing to do what is right, especially to do one’s work or duty well and thoroughly.
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Indoctrination (noun) /ɪnˌdɒktrɪˈneɪʃn/: The process of teaching a person or group to accept a set of beliefs uncritically.
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Critical thinking (noun) /ˈkrɪtɪkl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/: The objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment.
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Age-appropriate (adjective) /eɪdʒ əˈprəʊpriət/: Suitable for people of a particular age or developmental stage.
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Empowerment (noun) /ɪmˈpaʊəmənt/: The process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one’s life and claiming one’s rights.
In conclusion, the topic of teaching ethical consumerism in schools is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for this and similar topics, practice writing essays that clearly state your position, provide well-developed arguments, and use a range of appropriate vocabulary. Remember to analyze the question carefully and address all parts of the task.
For further practice, consider writing an essay on the following related topics:
- Should environmental education be a mandatory subject in all schools?
- To what extent should governments regulate companies to ensure ethical business practices?
- Do you think individual consumer choices can make a significant impact on global issues?
We encourage you to write your own essay on the topic discussed in this article and share it in the comments section. This is an excellent way to practice and potentially receive feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.