The topic of teenage curfews has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on past exam trends and current social issues, it’s likely to appear in future tests as well. Let’s examine a relevant question that has been featured in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that teenagers should have strict curfews imposed by their parents or local authorities. Others believe that teenagers should be free to make their own decisions about when to come home. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question presents a balanced argument about teenage curfews. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss the reasons for imposing strict curfews on teenagers
- Explore the arguments against curfews and for teenage autonomy
- Present their own opinion on the matter
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Teenage curfews have long been a contentious issue, with proponents arguing for their necessity in maintaining safety and discipline, while opponents champion the importance of personal freedom and responsibility. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Those in favor of strict curfews often cite the need to protect young people from potential dangers that lurk in the late hours. They argue that by limiting teenagers’ nighttime activities, parents and authorities can reduce the risk of involvement in criminal activities, substance abuse, or dangerous situations. Furthermore, curfews can help establish a routine that ensures adequate sleep and better academic performance. Supporters contend that these measures are essential for guiding adolescents through a crucial developmental stage.
On the other hand, opponents of curfews argue that they infringe upon teenagers’ rights and hinder their personal growth. They believe that by imposing strict rules, we deny young people the opportunity to develop decision-making skills and learn from their experiences. This school of thought emphasizes the importance of gradually increasing independence as a means of preparing teenagers for adulthood. Moreover, they argue that curfews can strain parent-child relationships and may even encourage rebellious behavior.
In my opinion, while the intentions behind curfews are often well-meaning, a more balanced approach would be more beneficial. Rather than imposing blanket restrictions, parents and authorities should focus on open communication and trust-building with teenagers. This could involve setting flexible guidelines that can be adjusted based on the individual’s maturity and responsibility levels. By fostering dialogue and mutual understanding, we can help teenagers develop the skills they need to make sound decisions while still providing a safety net.
In conclusion, while curfews may offer some short-term benefits in terms of safety and structure, they risk stunting teenagers’ personal growth and decision-making abilities. A more nuanced approach that balances guidance with gradually increasing autonomy is likely to yield better long-term results in preparing young people for the challenges of adulthood.
(Word count: 309)
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its high band score:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting a personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. Complex ideas are expressed with precision.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly.
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Critical Thinking: The writer demonstrates a sophisticated level of critical thinking by analyzing the issue from multiple angles and proposing a nuanced solution.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Nowadays, there is a debate about whether teenagers should have strict curfews or be allowed to decide their own schedules. This essay will discuss both sides of this argument and give my opinion.
Some people think that strict curfews are necessary for teenagers. They believe that curfews can keep young people safe from dangers like crime or accidents that happen late at night. Also, curfews can help teenagers get enough sleep and do better in school. Parents worry less when they know their children are home at a certain time.
On the other hand, others argue that teenagers should have more freedom to make their own choices. They say that teens need to learn how to be responsible and make decisions for themselves. Without this experience, they might struggle when they become adults. Some people also think that strict rules can make teenagers want to rebel and break the rules.
In my opinion, I think a balance between these two views is best. Parents should talk with their teenagers and agree on reasonable times to come home. These times can change as the teenager shows they are responsible. This way, teens can learn to make good choices while still having some guidelines to follow.
To conclude, while curfews can provide safety and structure, it’s important to also give teenagers some freedom to learn and grow. By finding a middle ground, we can help young people develop responsibility while keeping them safe.
(Word count: 253)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay demonstrates several features that place it in the Band 6-7 range:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and presenting a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be developed more fully.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear progression. Basic cohesive devices are used, but more sophisticated linking could improve the flow.
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Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary, though at times word choice could be more precise or varied.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence structures is used, with generally good control. There are some minor errors, but they do not impede communication.
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Critical Thinking: The essay shows some evidence of critical thinking, but the analysis could be deeper and more nuanced.
Key Vocabulary
- Contentious (adjective) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause disagreement
- Proponent (noun) /prəˈpəʊnənt/ – a person who advocates for something
- Infringe (verb) /ɪnˈfrɪndʒ/ – to limit or undermine something
- Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle differences
- Blanket (adjective) /ˈblæŋkɪt/ – covering or affecting everything or everyone
- Stunt (verb) /stʌnt/ – to prevent from growing or developing properly
- Autonomy (noun) /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – the right or condition of self-government
- Rebellious (adjective) /rɪˈbeljəs/ – showing a desire to resist authority or convention
- Flexibility (noun) /ˌfleksəˈbɪləti/ – the quality of being able to change or be changed easily
- Mutual (adjective) /ˈmjuːtʃuəl/ – experienced or done by each of two or more parties towards the other
In conclusion, the topic of teenage curfews is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The balance between teenage freedom and parental control
- The role of rules in adolescent development
- The impact of technology on teenage social lives and safety
We encourage you to write your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This practice will help improve your writing skills and prepare you for the IELTS exam.