IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Essays: The Role of Schools in Promoting Equality (Band 6-9)

The topic of schools’ role in promoting equality has appeared frequently in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in recent years. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this theme commonly appears in both advantage/disadvantage and discussion essays. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS tests.

Analysis of Task Question

Some people believe that schools should teach children to be good citizens and to have a sense of social equality. Others argue that schools should focus on academic subjects to prepare students for university and future careers. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

This discussion essay requires candidates to:

• Examine two contrasting views about schools’ priorities
• Present balanced arguments for both positions
• Provide a clear personal stance
• Support ideas with relevant examples

The importance of promoting economic equality is closely tied to educational opportunities, making this topic particularly relevant for IELTS candidates.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

There is ongoing debate about whether schools should prioritize social values or academic excellence. While both aspects are important, I believe schools must balance these responsibilities to fully prepare students for life.

Those who advocate for teaching citizenship and equality make compelling arguments. Schools are uniquely positioned to shape young minds and instill important social values. When children learn about equality and civic responsibility early, they are more likely to become conscientious adults who contribute positively to society. For example, schools that implement peer mentoring programs and community service projects help students develop empathy and understanding across social divides.

Strategies for promoting racial equality can be effectively implemented through curriculum design and classroom activities. Conversely, proponents of academic focus argue that schools’ primary purpose is educational achievement. In today’s competitive global economy, strong academic foundations are crucial for university success and career advancement. They contend that diluting the academic curriculum with social education might compromise students’ future prospects.

In my view, these objectives are not mutually exclusive but complementary. Schools can integrate social values into academic subjects through thoughtful curriculum design. For instance, literature classes can explore themes of equality while developing analytical skills, and history lessons can examine civil rights movements while teaching critical thinking. This integrated approach ensures students develop both academic prowess and social consciousness.

Therefore, I maintain that schools should adopt a holistic approach that combines academic excellence with social education. This balanced strategy will produce well-rounded individuals who are both academically capable and socially responsible.

Diverse students collaborating in modern classroom setting

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

People have different opinions about what schools should teach students. Some think schools should focus on making good citizens, while others believe academic subjects are more important.

Teaching citizenship and equality is important because it helps create a better society. When students learn about being good citizens, they understand how to respect others and work together. The role of education in promoting gender equality shows how schools can make positive changes. For example, many schools now have programs where students help their community and learn about different cultures.

However, academic subjects are also very important. Students need good grades to get into university and find good jobs. Many parents worry that if schools spend too much time teaching about citizenship, their children might not learn enough math, science, and other important subjects.

I think schools should try to do both things. They can teach regular subjects but also include lessons about being good citizens. For example, in English class, students can read stories about equality while learning language skills. This way, students can learn both academic and social skills at the same time.

In conclusion, I believe schools should find ways to teach both academic subjects and citizenship. This will help students become successful in their careers and also good members of society.

Key Vocabulary

1. conscientious (adj) /ˌkɒn.ʃiˈen.ʃəs/ – careful and thorough
2. civic responsibility (n) /ˈsɪv.ɪk/ – duties to society
3. diluting (v) /daɪˈluːt.ɪŋ/ – making something weaker
4. holistic (adj) /həʊˈlɪs.tɪk/ – considering the whole rather than parts
5. complementary (adj) /ˌkɒm.plɪˈmen.tər.i/ – combining well together

High-Scoring Sentence Structures

1. Complex sentence with concession:
   “While both aspects are important, I believe schools must balance these responsibilities.”

2. Conditional structure:
   “When children learn about equality and civic responsibility early, they are more likely to become conscientious adults.”

3. Parallel structure:
   “This balanced strategy will produce well-rounded individuals who are both academically capable and socially responsible.”

Each essay was carefully crafted to demonstrate different levels of language proficiency and analytical depth. Try writing your own response to this question and share it in the comments for feedback and discussion.