Bullying in schools has become a significant concern globally, making it a frequent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams, questions about school policies and student behavior appear in approximately 15% of tests. Let’s examine a common question format on this topic.
Some people believe that schools should implement a zero-tolerance policy on bullying, immediately expelling any student found bullying others. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
Question Analysis
This is an agree/disagree essay that requires candidates to:
- Express their position on zero-tolerance bullying policies
- Support their argument with relevant examples
- Consider multiple perspectives
- Provide a balanced discussion
Teacher discussing anti-bullying policies with diverse students in classroom
Band 9 Sample Essay (290 words)
While bullying is undoubtedly a serious issue that requires decisive action, I disagree with the implementation of zero-tolerance policies that automatically expel bullies, as such measures may be counterproductive and fail to address the root causes of bullying behavior.
Zero-tolerance policies, though well-intentioned, often oversimplify complex social dynamics and behavioral issues. Immediate expulsion removes students from their educational environment without addressing underlying problems such as mental health challenges, domestic difficulties, or social skills deficits. Moreover, such rigid policies may discourage reporting of bullying incidents, as students might fear severe consequences for their peers or worry about misunderstandings being treated as bullying.
A more effective approach would involve implementing comprehensive anti-bullying programs that combine clear consequences with rehabilitation and support services. Schools could establish tiered response systems where first-time offenders receive counseling and behavioral intervention, while repeated incidents trigger progressively stronger disciplinary measures. This approach allows schools to maintain firm boundaries while providing opportunities for positive behavioral change.
Furthermore, schools should focus on prevention through character education and emotional intelligence development. Creating a positive school culture that promotes empathy, respect, and inclusion can significantly reduce bullying incidents. This could include peer mediation programs, social-emotional learning curricula, and regular workshops on conflict resolution.
In conclusion, while schools must take a firm stance against bullying, automatic expulsion policies may create more problems than they solve. A balanced approach combining clear consequences with support services and preventive measures would be more effective in creating safe, nurturing educational environments.
Band 7 Sample Essay (275 words)
I partially agree with implementing zero-tolerance policies on bullying, but believe some modifications are necessary to make such policies more effective and fair.
The main advantage of zero-tolerance policies is that they send a clear message about the unacceptability of bullying. When students know that bullying will result in immediate expulsion, they may think twice before engaging in such behavior. This approach can help create a safer school environment where students feel protected and can focus on their studies.
However, there are several problems with strict zero-tolerance policies. Firstly, immediate expulsion may not always be the best solution for either the bully or the victim. The bully might need counseling or support to change their behavior, while simple expulsion might just transfer the problem to another school. Additionally, some cases of bullying might be complex, involving misunderstandings or mutual conflict, making it difficult to determine who should be expelled.
A better approach would be to implement a modified zero-tolerance policy. This could include:
- Immediate intervention when bullying is reported
- Clear consequences that increase in severity for repeated offenses
- Mandatory counseling for first-time offenders
- Expulsion only as a last resort for severe or repeated cases
In conclusion, while zero-tolerance policies have some merit, a more nuanced approach would be more effective. Schools should focus on both prevention and intervention, using expulsion only when other measures have failed.
Vocabulary Analysis
- zero-tolerance (adj) /ˌzɪərəʊ ˈtɒlərəns/ – refusing to accept antisocial behavior
- counterproductive (adj) /ˌkaʊntəprəˈdʌktɪv/ – having the opposite effect to what is intended
- rehabilitation (n) /ˌriːəˌbɪlɪˈteɪʃn/ – the process of helping someone return to a normal life
- intervention (n) /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/ – becoming involved in a situation to improve it
- nuanced (adj) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle differences
For practice, write your own essay response to this question in the comments section below. Additionally, watch for similar topics about school policies regarding student behavior, discipline methods, and educational environment safety.
