The topic of schools’ responsibility in developing students’ sense of responsibility is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exam questions from 2018-2023, this theme appears approximately once every 4-5 months, making it a highly probable topic for future tests. Let’s examine a recent question that exemplifies this theme.
The importance of teaching social responsibility has become increasingly vital in modern education systems, as reflected in recent IELTS exam trends.
Task Analysis
Some people believe that schools have a responsibility to teach children how to be good members of society. Others argue that this is the role of parents. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine both perspectives on who should teach social responsibility
- Present balanced arguments
- Express and justify a personal view
- Provide relevant examples
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Modern society increasingly debates whether schools or parents should bear primary responsibility for teaching children social values. While both parties play crucial roles, I believe this responsibility should be shared, with schools and parents working in partnership.
Those who advocate for schools’ primary role argue that educational institutions provide structured environments where children can learn and practice social skills. Professional educators are trained to implement systematic approaches to teaching values like cooperation, punctuality, and respect for diversity. Moreover, schools offer unique opportunities for children to interact with peers from different backgrounds, preparing them for real-world social situations.
The role of schools in promoting equality is evident in how they create diverse learning environments where students can develop social awareness.
Conversely, supporters of parental responsibility emphasize that families are children’s first and most influential teachers. Parents can provide individualized guidance based on their cultural values and beliefs. They can demonstrate social responsibility through daily interactions and family activities, offering immediate feedback and consistent role modeling that schools cannot match.
In my view, the most effective approach is a collaborative effort between schools and parents. While parents establish fundamental values, schools can reinforce and expand upon these teachings in a broader social context. This partnership ensures children receive consistent messages about responsibility from both spheres of influence.
The role of schools in teaching values complements parental guidance, creating a comprehensive approach to character development.
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay achieves a high band score due to:
- Clear organization and logical progression
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Coherent linking of ideas
- Balanced discussion with a clear position
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Many people have different opinions about who should teach children to be good citizens. Some think schools should do this job, while others believe parents are responsible.
Schools can teach children how to behave in society because teachers are trained professionals. They know how to explain rules and good behavior to students. Schools also have many children from different families, so students can learn how to work with others and respect different people.
However, parents spend more time with their children and can teach them good habits at home. They can show their children how to be polite and helpful by setting a good example. Parents also understand their children’s personalities better than teachers do.
I think both schools and parents should work together to teach children about being good members of society. Schools can teach general rules and social skills, while parents can teach specific family values and traditions. This way, children learn from both places and become better citizens.
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates:
- Basic organization with clear paragraphs
- Simple but clear arguments
- Limited range of vocabulary and structures
- Basic linking words
- Some development of ideas
Key Vocabulary
- social responsibility (n) /ˈsəʊ.ʃəl rɪˌspɒn.sɪˈbɪl.ɪ.ti/ – duty to society
- collaborative effort (n) /kəˈlæb.ər.ə.tɪv ˈef.ət/ – working together
- fundamental values (n) /ˌfʌn.də.ˈmen.təl ˈvæl.juːz/ – basic principles
- sphere of influence (n) /sfɪər əv ˈɪn.flu.əns/ – area of control
- systematic approach (n) /ˌsɪs.təˈmæt.ɪk əˈprəʊtʃ/ – organized method
Advanced Sentence Structures
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“While both parties play crucial roles, I believe this responsibility should be shared…”
Structure: Complex sentence with concession (While) + main clause -
“Those who advocate for schools’ primary role argue that…”
Structure: Noun clause + reporting verb + that-clause
Consider practicing these structures in your own essays and sharing your attempts in the comments below for feedback and improvement.