Corporal punishment in education is a controversial topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams between 2019-2023, this topic has appeared in various forms at least 5 times, particularly in countries where physical discipline remains a debated issue. Let’s examine a common test question and analyze sample responses across different band scores.
Analysis of Test Question
Some people believe that corporal punishment by teachers helps students learn better and behave well in school. Others think physical punishment is harmful and should be banned. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for and against corporal punishment in schools
- Present a balanced analysis of both perspectives
- Provide a clear personal stance
- Support ideas with relevant examples
Debate on corporal punishment in education showing different perspectives
Band 8 Sample Essay (290 words)
The debate over whether teachers should be allowed to use physical punishment remains contentious in many societies. While some advocate for its effectiveness in maintaining discipline, I strongly believe that corporal punishment has no place in modern education.
Proponents of physical discipline argue that it serves as an effective deterrent against misbehavior and helps maintain classroom order. They claim that students who fear punishment are more likely to focus on their studies and follow school rules. Additionally, some traditional societies view corporal punishment as a necessary tool for character building and moral development.
However, research consistently demonstrates the severe negative impacts of physical punishment on students’ psychological well-being and academic performance. Studies have shown that students subjected to corporal punishment often develop anxiety, depression, and aggressive behaviors. Moreover, physical discipline creates a hostile learning environment that impedes creative thinking and genuine engagement with educational material. It can also damage the crucial trust relationship between teachers and students.
Modern educational practices emphasize positive reinforcement and constructive discipline methods that promote understanding rather than fear. Successful alternative approaches include behavior management systems, counseling services, and parent-teacher collaboration. These methods not only maintain discipline but also help students develop self-regulation skills and emotional intelligence.
In my opinion, corporal punishment represents an outdated and harmful approach to education. Schools should focus on creating supportive learning environments that nurture students’ intellectual and emotional growth. By implementing comprehensive disciplinary policies that respect children’s dignity while maintaining clear boundaries, educational institutions can achieve better academic outcomes and produce well-adjusted individuals.
Modern teaching methods emphasizing positive reinforcement and student engagement
Band 6.5 Sample Essay (267 words)
Corporal punishment in schools is a topic that many people disagree about. Some people think it helps students learn better, but others say it is bad for children. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On one side, people who support corporal punishment think it makes students behave better. They believe that when students are afraid of being hit, they will listen to the teacher and study harder. In some countries, parents also support this idea because they think strict discipline is important for education.
However, there are many problems with physical punishment. First, it can make students feel scared and unhappy at school. When students are afraid, they might not be able to concentrate on their studies. Also, some students might become angry and violent because they learn that hitting is okay. This can cause more problems in the classroom.
Many schools now use better ways to teach students good behavior. Teachers can give rewards for good behavior and talk to students about their problems. They can also work with parents to help students who have difficulty following rules. These methods are more effective than hitting students.
I think corporal punishment should not be allowed in schools. It is not a good way to teach students and can cause many problems. Instead, schools should use modern teaching methods that help students understand why good behavior is important. This will help students learn better and become good people in the future.
Key Vocabulary for IELTS Writing Task 2
- Corporal punishment (n) /ˈkɔːpərəl ˈpʌnɪʃmənt/ – physical punishment
- Deterrent (n) /dɪˈterənt/ – something that discourages certain behavior
- Proponents (n) /prəˈpəʊnənts/ – supporters of an idea or cause
- Self-regulation (n) /ˌselfˌreɡjuˈleɪʃn/ – ability to control one’s behavior
- Hostile (adj) /ˈhɒstaɪl/ – unfriendly, antagonistic
- Comprehensive (adj) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – complete, including all aspects
- Nurture (v) /ˈnɜːtʃə/ – to encourage or help develop
- Well-adjusted (adj) /ˌwel.əˈdʒʌstɪd/ – emotionally stable and adapted
Suggested Practice Topics
- Should schools completely ban all forms of punishment?
- Is positive reinforcement more effective than punishment in education?
- How can schools maintain discipline without using physical punishment?
Feel free to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
