In recent IELTS examinations, topics related to global awareness and international understanding have become increasingly prevalent. Based on analysis of past papers, questions about teaching global perspectives appear in approximately 15-20% of Task 2 essays, with particular focus on cultural sensitivity and international cooperation. Let’s examine one frequently occurring question type:
Some people believe that schools should teach students about global issues such as climate change, international conflicts, and cultural differences. Others think schools should focus only on traditional academic subjects. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires:
- Discussion of two contrasting viewpoints
- Clear position statement
- Well-supported arguments
- Balanced analysis
- Personal opinion
The importance of teaching cultural awareness has become increasingly relevant in today’s interconnected world.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate over incorporating global awareness into school curricula has gained significant attention in recent years. While some advocate for maintaining focus on conventional subjects, I firmly believe that teaching students about worldwide issues is crucial for their development as informed global citizens.
Those who support traditional academic education argue that core subjects provide essential foundational knowledge. Mathematics, sciences, and languages form the backbone of academic achievement and future career prospects. Furthermore, they contend that adding global issues might overburden students and dilute the quality of fundamental education.
However, the need for global disaster preparedness and international understanding is paramount in our interconnected world. Teaching students about climate change enables them to comprehend environmental challenges and develop sustainable solutions. Similarly, exposure to cultural differences fosters tolerance and prepares students for diverse workplaces. Moreover, understanding international conflicts helps develop critical thinking and conflict resolution skills.
In my opinion, integrating global awareness into education creates well-rounded individuals capable of addressing complex worldwide challenges. Schools can achieve this by incorporating these topics into existing subjects rather than treating them as separate entities. For instance, climate change can be studied within science classes, while cultural differences can be explored through literature and social studies.
Teaching global awareness in modern classroom setting
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, many people discuss what schools should teach students. Some want global issues in schools, while others prefer traditional subjects only. This essay will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On one hand, traditional subjects are important. Students need to learn math, science, and languages to get good jobs. These subjects help them pass exams and go to university. Also, teachers already know how to teach these subjects well.
On the other hand, global issues are also important. When students learn about climate change, they understand why we must protect the environment. Learning about different cultures helps them respect others. Also, knowing about world problems helps them become better citizens.
I think schools should teach both traditional subjects and global issues. They can mix these topics together. For example, students can learn about climate change in science class. This way, they learn basic subjects and global problems at the same time.
Students engaged in global awareness activities
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “dilute,” “paramount,” “foster”
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear organization
- Strong cohesion
- Well-developed arguments
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Basic sentence structures
- Adequate organization
- Simple linking words
- Basic argument development
Key Vocabulary
- global awareness (n) /ˈɡləʊbəl əˈweənəs/ – understanding of international issues
- curricula (n) /kəˈrɪkjʊlə/ – educational programs
- paramount (adj) /ˈpærəmaʊnt/ – supreme importance
- foster (v) /ˈfɒstə/ – encourage development
- interconnected (adj) /ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪd/ – mutually joined
Advanced Sentence Patterns
- Complex with relative clause: “Those who support traditional academic education argue that core subjects provide essential foundational knowledge.”
- Conditional structure: “Schools can achieve this by incorporating these topics into existing subjects rather than treating them as separate entities.”
- Cause-effect: “Teaching students about climate change enables them to comprehend environmental challenges and develop sustainable solutions.”
Remember to practice writing your own response to this question and share it in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.
