Some people think that parents should teach children how to be good members of society. | IELTS Writing Task 2

Some people think that parents should teach children how to be good members of society. Others, however, believe that school is the place to learn this.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Essay:

The question of who should assume the responsibility for molding children into respectable members of society has long been a subject of debate. While some advocate for parental instruction, others assert that schools should take on this role. This essay will discuss both viewpoints and argue that both institutions play complementary roles in shaping a child’s social development.

Those who emphasize the role of parents argue that family is the primary social unit where children first learn about norms, values, and societal expectations. Parents inherently model behavior for their children, instilling fundamental values such as honesty, respect, and empathy from an early age. Moreover, parents can provide personalized guidance, addressing their child’s specific character traits and tailoring their teachings to cater to individual needs. From my personal experience, the values imparted by my parents have significantly influenced my moral compass and behavior towards others.

However, the assertion that schools should be the primary platform for learning societal norms holds considerable weight. Schools are a microcosm of society, presenting a diversity of cultures, perspectives, and social situations that a child might not encounter within the confines of their home. Through peer interaction and curriculum, schools not only impart academic knowledge but also teach critical life skills such as cooperation, conflict resolution, and cultural sensitivity.

In my opinion, the responsibility for shaping children into responsible citizens should be a collaborative effort between parents and schools. While parents lay the foundation of basic values, schools build upon this groundwork by providing a broader social context and teaching vital interpersonal skills. It is through this joint endeavor that children can most effectively learn to navigate the complexities of society.

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Vocabulary List:

Advocate (verb): To publicly recommend or support.

“He advocates the use of renewable energy sources.”

Inherently (adverb): In a permanent, essential, or characteristic manner.

“The task is inherently difficult due to its complexity.”

Microcosm (noun): A community, place, or situation regarded as encapsulating in miniature the characteristics of something much larger.

“The school was a microcosm of the society at large.”

Impart (verb): To make (information) known.

“The teacher imparted a great deal of knowledge to his students.”

Groundwork (noun): Work that is done in preparation for work that will be done later.

“She laid the groundwork for her thesis research during her first year.”

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Direct Question Essay
IELTS Writing Task 2 Student Essay