Ethics education in schools has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past decade. Based on analysis of past exam questions and current educational trends, this theme is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s examine a recent task that addresses The role of schools in teaching values.
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Students engaging in ethical discussion during class
Task Question Analysis
Some people believe that schools should teach children about ethics and moral values. Others think this responsibility belongs to parents. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine both perspectives on ethics education
- Present balanced arguments
- Provide a clear personal stance
- Support ideas with relevant examples
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate over whether moral education should be delegated to schools or remain within the family sphere has generated considerable discussion. While both institutions play crucial roles in shaping children’s ethical framework, I believe a collaborative approach would be most beneficial.
Those who advocate for The importance of teaching ethical behavior in schools argue that educational institutions provide a structured environment for systematic ethical instruction. Professional educators can implement research-based methodologies to develop students’ moral reasoning capabilities. Moreover, schools offer diverse social interactions where children can practically apply ethical principles while interacting with peers from different backgrounds.
Conversely, supporters of parental moral education emphasize that parents serve as children’s primary role models and have the most profound influence on their value system. The intimate family environment allows for personalized guidance and immediate feedback on ethical decisions. Parents can also ensure their children’s moral education aligns with their family’s cultural and religious beliefs.
In my opinion, the most effective approach would be a partnership between schools and parents. Schools can provide the theoretical framework and supervised practical applications of ethical principles, while parents can reinforce these lessons through daily examples and personal guidance. This synergy would create a comprehensive moral education system that prepares children for ethical challenges in their future lives.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, many people discuss whether schools or parents should teach children about ethics. Both sides have their own reasons, and I will discuss them in this essay.
Some people think schools should teach ethics because teachers are trained professionals. They know how to explain moral values to students in a clear way. Also, children spend lots of time at school and can learn from their classmates about right and wrong behavior.
However, other people believe parents should teach ethics because they know their children better. Parents can teach values that match their family’s beliefs and culture. They can also show good examples at home every day.
I think both schools and parents should work together to teach ethics. Schools can teach basic moral values, while parents can show how to use these values in daily life. This way, children can learn ethics better.
Teacher conducting ethics lesson in modern classroom
Band Score Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “delegated,” “ethical framework,” “systematic”
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear paragraph organization
- Coherent arguments with smooth transitions
- Well-developed ideas with specific examples
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Basic sentence structures
- Adequate organization
- Some repetition of ideas
- Limited development of arguments
Key Vocabulary
- ethical framework (n) /ˈeθɪkəl ˈfreɪmwɜːk/ – system of moral principles
- moral reasoning (n) /ˈmɒrəl ˈriːzənɪŋ/ – process of determining right from wrong
- synergy (n) /ˈsɪnədʒi/ – combined effect of cooperation
- theoretical framework (n) /θɪəˈretɪkəl ˈfreɪmwɜːk/ – conceptual basis for understanding
- personalized guidance (n) /ˈpɜːsənəlaɪzd ˈɡaɪdəns/ – individual-specific direction
High-Scoring Sentence Patterns
- Complex Contrast: “While both institutions play crucial roles…, I believe…”
- Cause-Effect: “This synergy would create… that prepares…”
- Parallel Structure: “Schools can provide…, while parents can reinforce…”
For practice, try writing your own essay addressing The importance of teaching social justice and share it in the comments below for feedback and discussion.
