The topic of family support and its influence on academic success is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on past exam trends and the relevance of this subject in today’s educational landscape, it’s highly likely to appear in future tests. Let’s explore this topic through a sample question and provide model essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Task
Some people believe that a child’s academic success is primarily influenced by family support, while others argue that school resources and quality of teaching are more important. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question asks you to consider two perspectives on what contributes most to a child’s academic success: family support or school-related factors. It’s crucial to address both viewpoints and clearly state your own opinion.
Model Essay for Band 8-9
Family and educational institutions both play pivotal roles in a child’s academic journey. While some argue that family support is the cornerstone of academic achievement, others contend that school resources and teaching quality are more influential. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view on this multifaceted issue.
Proponents of family support as the primary factor in academic success argue that a nurturing home environment lays the foundation for learning. Parents who actively engage in their children’s education, providing emotional support, guidance, and resources, can significantly boost their academic performance. For instance, children whose parents read to them regularly often develop stronger literacy skills. Moreover, families that prioritize education and set high expectations create an atmosphere conducive to academic excellence.
On the other hand, those who emphasize the importance of school factors highlight the critical role of qualified teachers and well-equipped learning environments. They argue that even with strong family support, students cannot reach their full potential without access to quality education. Skilled educators can inspire curiosity, tailor teaching methods to individual needs, and provide specialized knowledge that parents may not possess. Additionally, schools with advanced facilities and resources can offer diverse learning opportunities that may not be available at home.
In my opinion, both family support and school factors are integral to a child’s academic success, and it is the synergy between the two that yields the best results. While a supportive family environment can instill a love for learning and provide a stable foundation, the expertise and resources available in schools are equally crucial. The most successful students often benefit from a combination of engaged parents and high-quality educational institutions.
In conclusion, academic achievement is the product of a complex interplay between home and school environments. Rather than viewing these factors as mutually exclusive, we should recognize their complementary nature and strive to strengthen both aspects of a child’s educational journey.
(Word count: 309)
Model Essay for Band 6-7
The question of what influences a child’s academic success more – family support or school resources and teaching quality – is a topic of debate. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Some people believe that family support is the main factor in a child’s academic achievement. They think that when parents help their children with homework, encourage them to study, and show interest in their education, children do better in school. For example, parents who read to their children from a young age can help them develop better reading skills. Also, families that value education often motivate their children to work harder and get good grades.
On the other hand, others argue that school resources and teaching quality are more important. They say that even if a family is supportive, without good teachers and proper learning materials, a child cannot learn effectively. Good schools have experienced teachers who know how to explain subjects well and help students understand difficult concepts. They also have libraries, computers, and other resources that help students learn better.
In my opinion, both family support and school factors are important for a child’s academic success. I think they work together to help a child do well in school. While families can provide emotional support and basic help with studies, schools offer professional teaching and specialized resources. The best situation is when both family and school work together to support a child’s education.
To conclude, academic success depends on both family support and school quality. It’s not just one or the other, but a combination of both that helps children achieve their best in school.
(Word count: 268)
Key Writing Considerations
Vocabulary
When writing about this topic, it’s important to use a range of vocabulary related to education and family support. Here are some examples for different band scores:
Band 6-7:
- Support: help, encourage
- Academic success: good grades, do well in school
- School resources: libraries, computers
Band 8-9:
- Nurturing environment: supportive atmosphere, conducive to learning
- Academic achievement: scholastic performance, educational attainment
- Pedagogical expertise: teaching proficiency, instructional competence
Grammar
For higher band scores, demonstrate your ability to use complex sentence structures:
- Conditional sentences: “If parents are actively involved in their children’s education, students are more likely to excel academically.”
- Relative clauses: “Students whose parents show a keen interest in their studies often perform better in school.”
- Passive voice: “Academic success is influenced by a variety of factors, including family support and school resources.”
Essay Structure
Ensure your essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs that discuss both views, and a conclusion that summarizes your opinion. Use linking words to connect ideas and create a cohesive argument.
Essential Vocabulary
-
Academic achievement (noun) /ˌækəˈdemɪk əˈtʃiːvmənt/ – success in school or university, especially success in exams and course work
-
Nurturing (adjective) /ˈnɜːtʃərɪŋ/ – providing care and encouragement for the development of someone or something
-
Pedagogical (adjective) /ˌpedəˈɡɒdʒɪkl/ – relating to the methods and theory of teaching
-
Synergy (noun) /ˈsɪnədʒi/ – the combined power of a group of things when they are working together that is greater than the total power achieved by each working separately
-
Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
-
Conducive (adjective) /kənˈdjuːsɪv/ – making a certain situation or outcome likely or possible
-
Integral (adjective) /ˈɪntɪɡrəl/ – necessary and important as a part of a whole
-
Tailor (verb) /ˈteɪlə(r)/ – to adapt or make something suitable for a particular purpose or person
-
Pivotal (adjective) /ˈpɪvətl/ – of crucial importance in relation to the development or success of something else
-
Complement (verb) /ˈkɒmplɪment/ – to add to something in a way that enhances or improves it
Conclusion
The impact of family support on academic achievement is a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. As we’ve seen, it often appears in questions that ask candidates to compare different factors influencing a student’s success. To prepare for similar topics, consider practicing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of technology in education vs. traditional teaching methods
- The importance of extracurricular activities in academic development
- The impact of peer relationships on student performance
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to address all parts of the question, provide relevant examples, and clearly state your opinion. Practice writing essays on this topic and feel free to share your attempts in the comments section below. This active engagement will help you refine your skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.
For more insights on supportive relationships and their impact on various aspects of life, including education, you might find these articles helpful: