Environmental sustainability has become a crucial topic in recent years, reflecting the growing concern for our planet’s future. This theme has gained significant traction in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing with increasing frequency. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of teaching environmental sustainability in schools, provide sample essays for different band scores, and offer valuable tips for crafting a compelling response on this subject.
Analyzing the Topic and Its Relevance in IELTS
The topic of environmental education in schools has appeared multiple times in recent IELTS exams, indicating its relevance and importance. Based on past exam trends and current global focus on environmental issues, we can expect this theme to continue featuring prominently in future tests.
Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this subject:
Some people believe that schools should teach children how to be good members of society. Others believe that school should only focus on teaching academic skills. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question, while not explicitly mentioning environmental sustainability, provides an excellent opportunity to discuss the role of schools in shaping responsible citizens, including their role in environmental education.
Analyzing the Question
The question presents two contrasting views:
- Schools should teach children how to be good members of society.
- Schools should focus solely on academic skills.
To address this question effectively, you need to:
- Discuss both viewpoints
- Provide your own opinion
- Support your arguments with relevant examples
Now, let’s look at two sample essays that address this question, focusing on environmental sustainability as a key aspect of being a good member of society.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In today’s rapidly changing world, the role of education in shaping future generations has never been more critical. While some argue that schools should concentrate solely on academic skills, others believe in a more holistic approach that includes teaching children how to be responsible members of society. In my opinion, schools should strike a balance between these two approaches, with a particular emphasis on instilling values of environmental sustainability.
Those who advocate for a purely academic focus argue that schools’ primary function is to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for their future careers. They contend that subjects like mathematics, science, and language are essential for students’ success in an increasingly competitive global job market. This viewpoint has merit, as a strong academic foundation is undeniably crucial for individual success and societal progress.
However, proponents of a broader educational approach argue that schools have a responsibility to nurture well-rounded individuals who can contribute positively to society. This perspective emphasizes the importance of teaching values, ethics, and social responsibility alongside academic subjects. Environmental sustainability education, in particular, is seen as a critical component of this approach, given the urgent need to address climate change and other ecological challenges.
In my view, the ideal educational model should incorporate both academic rigor and social responsibility, with a strong focus on environmental sustainability. By integrating environmental education into the curriculum, schools can help students develop a sense of stewardship for the planet while also enhancing their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. For example, lessons on climate science can reinforce scientific concepts while simultaneously fostering an understanding of global environmental issues.
Moreover, teaching environmental sustainability can have far-reaching benefits beyond the classroom. Students who are educated about ecological issues are more likely to make environmentally conscious decisions in their personal lives and future careers. This can lead to a ripple effect, influencing families, communities, and ultimately, society at large.
In conclusion, while academic skills are undoubtedly important, schools should not neglect their role in shaping responsible citizens. By incorporating environmental sustainability education into the curriculum, schools can prepare students not only for academic and professional success but also for the critical task of safeguarding our planet’s future.
(Word count: 345)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The role of schools in society is a topic of much debate. Some people think schools should teach children how to be good members of society, while others believe they should focus only on academic skills. In my opinion, schools should do both, especially when it comes to teaching about environmental sustainability.
Those who support focusing only on academic skills say that schools should prepare students for their future jobs. They think subjects like math, science, and languages are the most important for success in the job market. This view makes sense because good grades and knowledge are important for getting a good job.
On the other hand, people who want schools to teach about being good members of society believe education should be about more than just getting a job. They think schools should teach values and social responsibility. Teaching about environmental sustainability is a big part of this because it’s important for the future of our planet.
I think schools should do both. They should teach academic subjects but also include lessons on how to be a good citizen, especially when it comes to the environment. For example, in science class, students can learn about climate change. This helps them understand science better and also teaches them about an important global issue.
Teaching about the environment in schools can also help students make better choices in their daily lives. They might start recycling at home or use less plastic. This can have a big impact on society if many students do it.
In conclusion, I believe schools should teach both academic skills and how to be good members of society. Environmental sustainability education is especially important because it helps prepare students for the future while also protecting our planet.
(Word count: 282)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing both viewpoints, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion.
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Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and phrases, such as “holistic approach,” “instilling values,” and “stewardship for the planet.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively conveys the main ideas.
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Grammar: The higher band essay demonstrates a wider range of complex sentence structures, while the lower band essay uses simpler constructions but maintains grammatical accuracy.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Both essays use appropriate linking words and phrases to connect ideas, but the Band 8-9 essay shows more sophisticated use of cohesive devices.
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Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed and nuanced arguments.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
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Environmental sustainability (noun) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/: The responsible interaction with the environment to avoid depletion or degradation of natural resources.
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Stewardship (noun) /ˈstjuːədʃɪp/: The responsible overseeing and protection of something considered worth caring for and preserving.
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Holistic (adjective) /həˈlɪstɪk/: Characterized by the belief that the parts of something are intimately interconnected and explicable only by reference to the whole.
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Ecological (adjective) /ˌiːkəˈlɒdʒɪkl/: Relating to or concerned with the relation of living organisms to one another and to their physical surroundings.
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Curriculum (noun) /kəˈrɪkjələm/: The subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college.
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Ripple effect (noun) /ˈrɪpl ɪˌfekt/: The continuing and spreading results of an event or action.
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Safeguarding (verb) /ˈseɪfɡɑːdɪŋ/: Protect from harm or damage with an appropriate measure.
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Climate change (noun) /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ/: Long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, mainly caused by human activities.
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Recycling (noun) /riːˈsaɪklɪŋ/: The action or process of converting waste into reusable material.
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Global issue (noun) /ˈɡləʊbl ˈɪʃuː/: A problem that affects many countries or all the people in the world.
Conclusion
The topic of environmental sustainability education in schools is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of individuals vs. governments in protecting the environment
- The impact of technology on environmental conservation
- The importance of environmental awareness in urban planning
Remember to structure your essay logically, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. We encourage you to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your IELTS writing skills and prepare for the exam.
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