Education plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable development, and this topic has been increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends, it’s highly likely that questions related to education and sustainability will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model essays to help you prepare for this important topic.

Education for Sustainable Development

Analyzing the Question

Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:

Some people believe that the main role of education should be to prepare students for their future careers. Others argue that education should focus more on teaching students about sustainable development and environmental issues. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question requires you to:

1. Discuss the view that education should primarily prepare students for future careers
2. Discuss the view that education should focus on sustainable development and environmental issues
3. Provide your own opinion on the matter

Now, let’s look at two sample essays addressing this question, one aimed at a Band 8-9 score and another at a Band 6-7 score.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Education has long been viewed as a gateway to successful careers, but in recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on its role in promoting sustainable development. While both perspectives have merit, I believe that a balanced approach incorporating both career preparation and sustainability education is essential for preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century.

Those who argue that education should primarily focus on career preparation have valid points. In an increasingly competitive global job market, students need to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to secure employment and advance in their chosen fields. A strong foundation in core subjects, coupled with practical skills and industry-specific knowledge, can undoubtedly enhance students’ employability and economic prospects. Moreover, career-focused education can contribute to economic growth and innovation, benefiting society as a whole.

On the other hand, proponents of sustainability-focused education argue that environmental issues and sustainable development should take center stage in curricula. This perspective is rooted in the urgent need to address global challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and biodiversity loss. By educating students about these issues and equipping them with the tools to tackle them, we can foster a generation of environmentally conscious citizens and leaders. This approach not only prepares students to contribute to a more sustainable future but also helps them develop critical thinking skills and a sense of global responsibility.

In my opinion, the most effective educational approach is one that integrates both career preparation and sustainability education. By doing so, we can create a workforce that is not only professionally competent but also environmentally aware and socially responsible. This holistic approach can lead to the development of innovative “green” industries and sustainable business practices, aligning economic growth with environmental protection.

Furthermore, as sustainability becomes increasingly important across all sectors, knowledge of environmental issues and sustainable practices is likely to become a valuable asset in many careers. By incorporating sustainability into various subjects and disciplines, we can prepare students for a future where environmental considerations are integral to decision-making in all fields.

In conclusion, while both career preparation and sustainability education are important, I believe that the most effective approach is to integrate these two aspects. This balanced strategy will not only equip students with the skills they need for successful careers but also empower them to contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.

(Word count: 378)

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Education is very important for preparing students for their future jobs, but some people think it should focus more on teaching about sustainable development and environmental issues. Both views have good points, and I will discuss them in this essay.

Many people believe that education should mainly prepare students for their careers. This is important because getting a good job is necessary for a successful life. When students learn useful skills for work, they can find better jobs and earn more money. Also, if more people have good job skills, it can help the country’s economy grow stronger.

However, others say that education should teach more about sustainable development and environmental problems. This is also important because our planet faces many challenges like climate change and pollution. If students learn about these issues, they can help find solutions and make the world better. Understanding environmental problems can also help people make better choices in their daily lives.

In my opinion, both views are correct, and education should include both job preparation and sustainability topics. Students need to learn skills for their future careers, but they also need to understand how to protect the environment. By learning about both, students can be successful in their jobs and also help create a better world.

For example, if a student wants to become an engineer, they can learn how to design buildings that are energy-efficient and use sustainable materials. This combines job skills with environmental knowledge.

In conclusion, I believe that education should prepare students for their careers and teach them about sustainable development. This balanced approach will help students succeed in their jobs and contribute to solving important global problems.

(Word count: 276)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

1. Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each view, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced argument.

2. Language: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively communicates the main ideas.

3. Development of Ideas: The Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed explanations and examples, showing a deeper understanding of the topic. The Band 6-7 essay covers the main points but with less depth.

4. Cohesion and Coherence: Both essays use linking words and phrases to connect ideas, but the Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more sophisticated cohesion.

5. Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides a more balanced and thoughtful discussion of the issues.

Vocabulary to Remember

Here are some useful vocabulary items related to this topic:

1. Sustainable development (noun) /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/: Economic development that meets present needs without compromising future generations’ ability to meet their needs.

2. Environmental stewardship (noun) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈstjuːərdʃɪp/: The responsible use and protection of the natural environment through conservation and sustainable practices.

3. Eco-literacy (noun) /ˈiːkəʊ ˈlɪtərəsi/: The ability to understand the natural systems that make life on earth possible and to apply this understanding to daily life.

4. Green skills (noun) /ɡriːn skɪlz/: The knowledge, abilities, values, and attitudes needed to live in, develop, and support a sustainable and resource-efficient society.

5. Circular economy (noun) /ˈsɜːkjələr iˈkɒnəmi/: An economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual use of resources.

6. Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat.

7. Climate resilience (noun) /ˈklaɪmət rɪˈzɪliəns/: The capacity for a socio-ecological system to adapt, reorganize, and evolve into more desirable configurations that improve the sustainability of the system, leaving it better prepared for future climate change impacts.

Conclusion

The Role Of Education In Supporting Sustainable Development is a crucial topic that is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for this and similar topics, practice writing essays that balance different perspectives and incorporate specific examples. Remember to use a range of vocabulary related to sustainability and education, and aim to develop your ideas fully.

For further practice, you might want to consider writing essays on related topics such as:

• The role of technology in promoting sustainable education
• The importance of environmental education in primary schools
• Balancing economic growth and environmental protection through education

You can also explore related topics such as the role of public policy in supporting employment and how to create sustainable jobs in a digital economy to broaden your understanding of sustainability and employment issues.

We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS Writing Task 2.