IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer (band score 8-9)
IELTS Essay # 1171 - Allowing children to make their own choices
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IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic.
Some people believe that allowing children to make their own choices on everyday matters (such as food, clothes and entertainment) is likely to result in a society of individuals who only think about their own wishes. Other people believe that it is important for children to make decisions about matters that affect them.
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.
Model Answer 1: [Opinion: Children should be given some freedom to make choices but there must be a limit.]
In today's society, the role of children in decision-making is a topic of hot debate. While some argue that giving children the freedom to make choices on everyday matters can lead to self-centeredness, others believe it is essential for their development. This essay will explore both viewpoints. In my opinion, however, they should be given some freedom to make choices but there must be a limit.
On the one hand, those who believe that children should not be permitted to make their own choices on everyday matters argue that this approach can result in a society of individuals who only think about their own wishes. These individuals may not have a sense of responsibility towards others and may find it challenging to make necessary sacrifices for the greater good. They may lack the ability to compromise, which can lead to interpersonal conflicts.
On the other hand, some believe that it is essential for children to make decisions about matters that affect them. Allowing children to have a say in things such as clothing, food, and entertainment can enhance their decision-making skills and promote independence. It can also help children develop a sense of responsibility, which is essential in adulthood. In addition, children who are allowed to make their own choices may have a better understanding of the consequences of their actions.
In my opinion, children should be given the opportunity to make their own choices on everyday matters within a reasonable limit. While children need to understand the importance of compromise and social responsibility, it is also necessary to give them some freedom to express themselves. By doing so, they will develop a sense of identity and self-confidence, which is essential for their growth.
In conclusion, while some argue that allowing children to make their own choices can lead to self-centeredness, others believe that it is essential for their development. However, I believe that children should be allowed to make their own choices within a reasonable limit to promote their decision-making skills, independence, and sense of responsibility.
Model Answer 2: [Opinion: allowing children to make their own choices is highly beneficial.]
Some argue that granting children the autonomy to make decisions on everyday matters, such as food, dresses, and recreation, may lead to a self-centred society. However, others believe that empowering children to make choices that affect them is essential for their personal development and future decision-making abilities. This essay will explore both perspectives and argue that allowing children to make their own choices is beneficial as it fosters independence, critical thinking, and responsible decision-making.
On the one hand, supporters of not allowing children to make decisions on everyday matters think that the practice would give an impression to those children that they can choose anything they want. They often do not consider the consequences of their choices and thus become more self-centred. Moreover, when they are allowed to decide on everyday matters, they begin to decide what benefits them rather than thinking how it may affect others. For instance, young children who are granted their wishes all the time by their rich parents, often end up being selfish in later life.
On the other hand, the proponents of allowing children the freedom to decide important everyday matters believe that it nurtures a sense of independence and self-reliance. When children are encouraged to make age-appropriate decisions, they gain a sense of ownership over their actions and learn to take responsibility for their choices. For instance, allowing a child to select their preferred extracurricular activity or hobby can instil a sense of self-confidence and independence as they pursue activities that align with their interests and passions. The same goes for their choice of food, clothes, toys and books. Moreover, this practice enhances their critical thinking abilities. When children weigh the consequences of their choices, they develop problem-solving skills and learn to make informed decisions. This is why, personally, I am in favour of allowing children to make their own choices on everyday matters.
In conclusion, granting children the freedom to make their own choices on everyday matters empowers them to develop essential life skills, fosters independence, and cultivates responsible decision-making. By providing a supportive environment, parents and caregivers can nurture confident and well-rounded individuals who can navigate the complexities of life with resilience and wisdom.
Sample Answer 3: [Opinion: parents should neither give absolute privilege to their children nor restrain them in every matter]
How much freedom a child should be granted on everyday matters is controversial. People who are against allowing boundless liberty to children believe it creates selfish individuals. Others, however, think freedom is necessary to nurture creativity, and it is essential for the upbringing of self-reliant individuals. I believe that parents should neither give absolute privilege to their children nor restrain them in every matter - there must be a balance.
On the one hand, permitting children to do whatever they want and letting them choose everything they like convinces youngsters that they can do whatever they like. It has a detrimental effect on the mental growth of children, and those children would likely become selfish adults in the future. Scientific research reveals that someone’s childhood experience has permanent effects on his or her personality and thinking pattern. This is why parents should make important decisions for their offspring and deter them from doing things that are harmful to their psychological and physical growth as well as to others.
On the other hand, many others express that if parents do not allow their children to pick certain things on their own and restrict them on everything, the children could become fragile-minded and lack confidence. If children cannot choose things they like and do not have any freedom of choice, they end up being less creative than those who were given the freedom to make their own choices and decisions.
In my opinion, parents should let their children make some choices to let them become confident. But they should not be allowed to decide every single matter lest they take that privilege for granted.
To conclude, our society needs more creative and selfless people, and that is why, we should allow freedom to our children, but there should be a boundary between this liberty and selfishness. The balance can bring the best possible results.
Idea Generation for this IELTS Essay:
Essay question:
Some people believe that allowing children to make their own choices on everyday matters (such as food, clothes and entertainment) is likely to result in a society of individuals who only think about their own wishes. Other people believe that it is important for children to make decisions about matters that affect them.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Essay type:
Discussion Essay.
The main question of this essay:
Should children be allowed to make their own choices on everyday matters, or should these decisions be guided by adults?
Reasons why allowing children to make their own choices may lead to selfish individuals:
1. Development of self-centered attitudes:
Allowing children unrestricted freedom in daily decisions may cultivate a belief that their personal desires always take precedence, potentially making them insensitive to the needs of others. For example, children consistently allowed to choose meals may refuse to accommodate family preferences or dietary needs.
2. Reduced appreciation for authority and guidance:
Without structured boundaries, children may not respect or value adult advice and guidance, causing difficulties in their future personal and professional interactions. To illustrate, a child who selects all their entertainment without supervision might develop disrespect towards parental authority.
3. Difficulty in adjusting to societal expectations:
Children who consistently make decisions solely based on personal preference may struggle to adapt in situations requiring compromise or teamwork. For instance, they might find it challenging to collaborate effectively in group tasks at school.
4. Potential neglect of long-term benefits:
Children often lack the maturity to weigh long-term consequences against immediate gratification, which can negatively impact their overall development. For example, a child who chooses only junk food due to preference could develop health problems in later life.
5. Diminished empathy and consideration:
Regularly prioritising their own preferences may limit children’s ability to empathise with others' viewpoints and feelings. As an example, a child allowed to dominate family entertainment choices may fail to recognise the disappointment of siblings who rarely have their interests considered.
Reasons why it is important for children to make their own decisions:
1. Encourages independence and responsibility:
Making their own decisions enables children to learn responsibility, develop confidence, and become self-reliant. For example, selecting their clothes helps children understand personal responsibility and develops their sense of identity.
2. Enhances critical thinking and decision-making skills:
Regularly allowing children to decide fosters critical thinking abilities, which are crucial life skills. To give an example, deciding how to spend their pocket money teaches children valuable lessons in budgeting and financial planning.
3. Strengthens problem-solving capabilities:
Facing the outcomes of their own decisions helps children build resilience and problem-solving abilities. As an example, if children choose a leisure activity and later find it unenjoyable, they learn to cope with disappointment and adjust future choices accordingly.
4. Promotes self-awareness and personal growth:
Allowing choice promotes self-awareness, as children discover their interests, dislikes, strengths, and weaknesses through experience. For instance, when children freely explore hobbies and sports, they develop a clearer understanding of their personal interests.
5. Encourages mutual respect and open communication:
Allowing children some autonomy in decision-making encourages dialogue between parents and children, enhancing mutual trust and understanding. For example, discussions about choosing nutritious food empower children and promote healthier eating habits through informed choices.
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