IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Essays: The Role of Schools in Climate Education – Model Answers for Band 6-9

Climate education has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, reflecting growing global concerns about environmental issues. Based on recent exam trends, this theme appears in various forms, particularly focusing on the responsibility of educational institutions in addressing climate change. Let’s examine a frequently encountered question type on this subject.

Some people believe that schools should make climate change education compulsory in their curriculum. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Question Analysis

This is an agree/disagree essay that requires candidates to express their position on incorporating mandatory climate education in schools. The key aspects to address include:

• The importance of climate education
• The role of schools in environmental awareness
• The potential benefits and challenges of mandatory climate education
• The impact on students and society

The effects of climate change on education demonstrates why this topic has become increasingly relevant in academic discussions.

Model Answer (Band 8-9)

Climate change represents one of the most pressing challenges of our time, and I strongly agree that educational institutions should make climate education a mandatory component of their curriculum.

Firstly, incorporating climate education into school curricula ensures that young people develop a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues from an early age. When students learn about climate science, they become better equipped to understand the complex relationships between human activities and environmental impacts. This knowledge is crucial for developing informed citizens who can make environmentally conscious decisions in their personal and professional lives.

Should school curriculums include courses on climate change is a question that directly relates to preparing future generations for environmental challenges.

Moreover, mandatory climate education can foster innovation and problem-solving skills. By studying climate-related issues, students develop critical thinking abilities and learn to approach complex global challenges systematically. This educational foundation could inspire future scientists, engineers, and policymakers to develop sustainable solutions for environmental problems.

Students actively participating in climate change education discussion

However, implementing compulsory climate education must be done thoughtfully. The curriculum should be scientifically accurate, age-appropriate, and politically neutral. It should focus on empowering students with knowledge rather than creating anxiety about environmental issues.

In conclusion, making climate education mandatory in schools is essential for preparing future generations to address environmental challenges effectively. This approach not only educates students about crucial environmental issues but also equips them with the skills needed to contribute to solutions.

Model Answer (Band 6-7)

I agree that schools should make climate change education compulsory because it is important for students to learn about environmental problems.

One main reason is that students need to understand how climate change affects their lives. When they learn about this topic in school, they can understand why some weather patterns are changing and how this impacts different countries. This knowledge helps them make better choices about using energy and resources.

The role of governments in supporting science shows how important it is to have official support for environmental education.

Also, teaching about climate change in schools helps students become more responsible citizens. They learn about recycling, saving energy, and reducing pollution. These lessons can help them develop good habits that they will keep for their whole lives.

Another benefit is that students can share what they learn with their families. When children understand climate change, they often talk about it at home and encourage their parents and siblings to be more environmentally friendly.

However, schools must be careful about how they teach this subject. They should use simple explanations and practical examples that students can understand easily.

To conclude, I believe climate change education should be mandatory in schools because it helps students understand environmental issues and teaches them how to protect the environment.

Analysis of Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay Features:

• Sophisticated vocabulary: “comprehensive understanding,” “environmentally conscious decisions”
• Complex sentence structures
• Clear organization with well-developed ideas
• Strong cohesion between paragraphs
• Relevant examples and supporting arguments

Band 6-7 Essay Features:

• Good basic vocabulary with some repetition
• Simpler sentence structures
• Clear but less sophisticated organization
• Basic cohesion between ideas
• Straightforward examples

Key Vocabulary

1. curriculum (n) /kəˈrɪkjʊləm/ – the subjects comprising a course of study
2. mandatory (adj) /ˈmændətɔːri/ – required by law or rules
3. environmentally conscious (adj phrase) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentəli ˈkɒnʃəs/ – aware of environmental issues
4. sustainability (n) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – ability to maintain at a certain level without depleting resources
5. implementation (n) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃn/ – the process of putting a plan into action

Benefits of arts education in schools? offers additional insights into how different educational components can be integrated effectively.

For practice, try writing your own response to this question and share it in the comments. Consider how climate education might be implemented in schools in your country and what benefits it could bring to students and society.