IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer (band score 8-9)
IELTS Essay # 1265 - Children are often told they can achieve anything if they try hard enough
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IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
In some cultures, children are often told they can achieve anything if they try hard enough.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of giving children this message?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1:
In many cultures, children are frequently given the message that they can accomplish anything if they work hard enough. While this message has some advantages, it also has certain disadvantages that must be taken into consideration. This essay will outline both the advantages and demerits of this practice.
One benefit of this is that it can instil a sense of self-confidence and motivation in children. When youngsters are encouraged to believe that they can achieve anything with effort and determination, they are more likely to persevere through difficult tasks and setbacks. This can help them develop important skills such as resilience, self-efficacy, and a growth mindset. For instance, children who are told that they can achieve anything they set their mind to may be more willing to take on new challenges, even if they are initially daunting. If a child wants to learn a new skill or participate in an activity that they are not yet proficient in, they may be more likely to try if they have the belief that they can eventually succeed with hard work and perseverance.
However, there are also some potential drawbacks to this message. For one, it may set unrealistic expectations for children, particularly if they are not given the necessary resources or opportunities to succeed. Additionally, if children are constantly told that they can achieve anything through hard work alone, it may lead them to overlook the role that other factors such as education, luck, privilege, and societal structures play in success. This could ultimately result in feelings of frustration, self-blame, and demotivation if they do not achieve the outcomes they desire.
In conclusion, while the message that children can achieve anything through hard work has its advantages in terms of building confidence and motivation, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks as well. It is hoped that parents and teachers would motivate young children to work hard but also take into consideration other factors that are important for success.
Model Answer 2:
In many societies, it is a common belief that children can accomplish anything through sheer determination and hard work. While this message can inspire positivity and drive, it also has its drawbacks. This essay will explore both the advantages and disadvantages of encouraging children to believe that perseverance leads to success.
One significant advantage of instilling the idea of limitless potential is that it fosters a growth mindset. When children are told they can achieve anything, they are more likely to embrace challenges and view failure as a learning opportunity. For example, a child who struggles with mathematics may persist and gradually improve, believing that with enough effort, they will succeed. Moreover, this message promotes resilience, which is crucial for overcoming setbacks. A student who is encouraged to keep trying after initial failures is more likely to develop perseverance, a trait that will benefit them in both academic and personal pursuits.
However, there are also notable disadvantages to this message. First, it may create unrealistic expectations and unnecessary pressure. If children are constantly told they can achieve anything, they might feel that any failure is a personal shortcoming. For instance, a child who struggles in a competitive sport may feel disheartened if they are unable to meet the standard set by others, despite their efforts. Additionally, this belief might overlook the importance of external factors, such as natural ability or circumstances. A child with limited access to resources may find it harder to succeed, no matter how much they try, leading to feelings of inadequacy.
In conclusion, while the message of achieving anything through hard work can motivate children and encourage persistence, it can also impose unrealistic expectations and lead to disappointment. It is expected that parents and society will encourage children to work hard but not possess unrealistic expectations or put unnecessary pressure on the youngsters.
Idea generation for this IELTS Essay:
Essay Question:
In some cultures, children are often told they can achieve anything if they try hard enough.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of giving children this message?
Essay Type:
Advantages and Disadvantages Essay
Main Question of This Essay:
What are the benefits and potential drawbacks of telling children that they can achieve anything if they try hard enough?
Reasons why giving children this message can be beneficial:
1. Encourages a growth mindset:
This message promotes the belief that intelligence and abilities can be developed over time through effort. For example, children who are told that they can succeed with hard work are more likely to embrace challenges and learn from mistakes, such as when they struggle in school but continue to improve with persistence.
2. Builds resilience and perseverance:
By encouraging children to keep trying despite setbacks, they develop resilience, which is important for success in life. For instance, a child who fails in a sports competition but is motivated to practice more can eventually win, demonstrating perseverance.
3. Enhances self-confidence:
Children who believe in their ability to improve through effort are likely to develop higher self-esteem. For example, a child who feels confident in their academic abilities, because they are encouraged to work hard, might pursue challenging subjects and perform better in the future.
4. Fosters independence and self-discipline:
When children believe they can achieve anything with effort, they become more independent and develop strong self-discipline. For example, a child who believes in the power of hard work might organize their study time effectively and stay focused on their goals without needing constant supervision.
5. Promotes a positive attitude toward failure:
Children who are encouraged to keep trying may view failure as a learning opportunity rather than as something to avoid. For instance, a child who fails an exam but is encouraged to study harder may see the failure as a chance to improve, rather than a reason to give up.
Reasons why giving children this message can be detrimental:
1. Unrealistic expectations:
Telling children that they can achieve anything might lead them to believe that success is guaranteed, which can be disheartening when they face failure. For instance, a child who dreams of becoming a professional athlete might struggle with disappointment if they do not possess the necessary physical skills, no matter how hard they try.
2. Creates undue pressure:
The constant belief that hard work will always lead to success can result in excessive stress. For example, children might feel anxious about not meeting high expectations, especially if they are unable to meet the success they were promised despite working hard.
3. Ignores external factors:
This message does not take into account that success can be influenced by factors beyond a child's control, such as socioeconomic status or innate talent. For example, a child from a disadvantaged background might work extremely hard but still struggle to achieve the same opportunities as others due to systemic barriers.
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