Studies have shown that questions about multilingual education frequently appear in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in recent years. This topic connects strongly with benefits of bilingual education for children and often appears in various forms, from discussing advantages and disadvantages to debating implementation methods.
Analysis of Task 2 Question
Some people believe that children should learn multiple languages from an early age in school. Others think it is better to focus on one language until they are fluent. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine both perspectives on language learning
- Present balanced arguments
- Provide a clear personal stance
- Support ideas with relevant examples
Diverse students learning multiple languages in modern classroom setting
Band 9 Sample Essay (290 words)
The debate over whether children should learn multiple languages simultaneously or master one language first continues to generate significant discussion in educational circles, similar to discussions about advantages of bilingual education in global societies.
Those who advocate for multilingual education from an early age argue that children’s brains are uniquely suited to language acquisition during their formative years. Research has demonstrated that young learners can absorb multiple languages simultaneously without confusion, developing native-like proficiency in each. Furthermore, early exposure to multiple languages enhances cognitive flexibility, cultural awareness, and future career prospects.
Conversely, proponents of single-language focus contend that attempting to learn multiple languages simultaneously might overwhelm young learners. They suggest that building a strong foundation in one language is crucial for overall linguistic development and academic success. This approach, they argue, prevents potential confusion and ensures thorough mastery of at least one language.
In my view, while both arguments have merit, the benefits of early multilingual education significantly outweigh the potential drawbacks. Research examining Is a multilingual education system beneficial? consistently shows that children can successfully manage multiple languages. Moreover, in our increasingly interconnected world, early multilingual education provides crucial advantages in cognitive development, cultural understanding, and future opportunities.
To implement this effectively, educational institutions should adopt age-appropriate teaching methodologies and ensure adequate support systems are in place. This approach, combined with the role of play-based learning in early education, can create an engaging and effective learning environment.
Children engaged in interactive multilingual learning activities
Key Vocabulary:
- formative years (n.) /ˈfɔːmətɪv jɪəz/ – early stages of development
- cognitive flexibility (n.) /ˈkɒɡnətɪv ˌfleksəˈbɪləti/ – ability to switch between different concepts
- linguistic development (n.) /lɪŋˈɡwɪstɪk dɪˈveləpmənt/ – growth in language ability
- interconnected (adj.) /ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪd/ – mutually connected
- age-appropriate (adj.) /eɪdʒ əˈprəʊpriət/ – suitable for a particular age group
(Additional sample essays for Band 6 and 7 can be provided upon request)
Consider practicing with this related topic:
“Should schools make foreign language learning compulsory throughout all levels of education? Why or why not?”
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
