Social responsibility has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of exam questions between 2019-2023. Let’s examine a recent question that reflects The role of schools in teaching values.
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Sample Question Analysis
Some people believe that schools should teach children about social responsibility and good behavior, while others think this is the role of parents. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss two contrasting viewpoints
- Present their personal stance
- Support arguments with relevant examples
Band 9 Sample Essay (290 words)
In contemporary society, there is ongoing debate about whether educational institutions or parents should bear primary responsibility for instilling social values in children. While both parties play crucial roles, I believe this responsibility should be shared between schools and parents.
Those who advocate for school-based social education argue that professional educators are better equipped to teach these concepts systematically. Schools provide structured environments where children can practice social skills with peers from diverse backgrounds. Moreover, teachers can implement proven pedagogical methods to develop students’ understanding of civic duties and ethical behavior, similar to how The importance of teaching ethical behavior suggests.
Conversely, proponents of parental responsibility emphasize that family is the first and most influential social unit in a child’s life. Parents serve as immediate role models and can reinforce positive behaviors through daily interactions. They can provide personalized guidance based on their child’s specific needs and cultural background.
In my view, the most effective approach is a collaborative effort between schools and parents. Educational institutions can provide structured learning about social responsibility, while parents can demonstrate these principles in practice. This partnership ensures children receive consistent messages about good behavior from both authority figures in their lives. Furthermore, regular communication between teachers and parents can help identify and address any behavioral concerns promptly.
Consider how Schools vs. parents for teaching good behavior demonstrates the effectiveness of this collaborative approach. When schools and parents align their efforts, children develop a more comprehensive understanding of their social obligations and responsibilities.
Band 7 Sample Essay (275 words)
The question of who should teach children about social responsibility has become increasingly important in modern society. While some believe this task belongs to schools, others argue it should be handled by parents. I think both institutions have important roles to play.
Schools have several advantages when it comes to teaching social responsibility. Teachers are trained professionals who understand how to explain complex social concepts to children. Additionally, the school environment provides many opportunities for students to practice social skills with their peers. For example, group projects and team activities help children learn about cooperation and mutual respect.
On the other hand, parents are children’s first teachers and have a strong influence on their behavior. They can teach social responsibility through everyday situations at home and in the community. Parents can also provide immediate feedback on their children’s behavior and explain why certain actions are right or wrong.
In my opinion, both schools and parents should work together to teach social responsibility. Schools can provide formal education about social values, while parents can reinforce these lessons at home. This combination helps children understand that good behavior is important in all aspects of life, not just at school or home.
Parent teaching child about social responsibility
Key Vocabulary:
- Contemporary (adj) /kənˈtempəreri/ – belonging to the present time
- Pedagogical (adj) /ˌpedəˈɡɑdʒɪkəl/ – relating to teaching
- Proponents (n) /prəˈpoʊnənts/ – supporters of an idea
- Civic duties (n) /ˈsɪvɪk ˈduːtiz/ – responsibilities of citizens
- Collaborative (adj) /kəˈlæbəreɪtɪv/ – involving working together
High-scoring Sentence Structures:
- “While both parties play crucial roles, I believe this responsibility should be shared between schools and parents.”
- Concession clause + personal opinion structure
- “Educational institutions can provide structured learning about social responsibility, while parents can demonstrate these principles in practice.”
- Parallel structure comparing two aspects
Feel free to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback!
