Some people think that children should start school at a very early age, but others believe that children should not go to school until they are older.

Practice this IELTS Writing Task 2 question on IELTSX. Some people think that children should start school at a very early age, but others believe that children should not go to school until they are older.

Children Start School Early Age vs Older - IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Write at least 250 words.

A student's answer to this task, and the feedback on it

Written by an IELTSX user under exam conditions and published unedited and anonymously. Band 9 · 272 words.

Some people argue that children should begin formal education at a very young age, whereas others believe that schooling should be delayed until children are older. Both perspectives have valid arguments; however, I believe that starting school slightly later is more beneficial for a child’s overall development.

On the one hand, supporters of early schooling claim that young children can develop cognitive and social skills more quickly in a structured learning environment. At an early age, children’s brains are highly adaptable, which makes it easier for them to learn basic literacy, numeracy, and communication skills. In addition, attending school early helps children socialize, follow routines, and adapt to rules, which may give them an academic advantage in later years.

On the other hand, those who oppose early schooling argue that young children benefit more from play-based learning and family interaction than from formal education. During early childhood, emotional development and creativity are crucial, and excessive academic pressure may cause stress or reduce a child’s natural curiosity. Moreover, children mature at different rates, and delaying school allows them to develop confidence, independence, and emotional stability before entering a formal educational setting.

In my opinion, children should not be forced to start school too early. While basic learning can occur through play and informal activities, formal education is more effective when children are emotionally and mentally ready. A later start can lead to better long-term academic performance and a more positive attitude toward learning.

In conclusion, although early schooling may offer certain advantages, delaying formal education until children are older is, in my view, a more balanced and beneficial approach for their overall development.

Examiner feedback

This is an exemplary Band 9 essay. It demonstrates a high level of linguistic control, clear logical progression, and a mature response to the prompt. The writer has successfully navigated both sides of the debate while articulating a nuanced personal opinion without any grammatical or lexical lapses.

Task Response - 9

The essay fully addresses all parts of the task. It provides a balanced discussion of both viewpoints and maintains a clear, consistent position throughout. - Ideas are fully developed, with relevant supporting points regarding cognitive development, socialization, and emotional maturity. - The response is concise but sufficiently extended, addressing the nuances of 'formal education' versus 'play-based learning' effectively.

Coherence & Cohesion - 9

The organization of ideas is logical and follows a standard academic structure that is easy to follow. - Cohesive devices (e.g., 'On the one hand,' 'Moreover,' 'While') are used naturally and do not attract undue attention. - Each paragraph has a clear central topic, and the progression from the discussion of opposing views to the final opinion is seamless.

Lexical Resource - 9

The writer uses a wide range of vocabulary with sophisticated control and precision. - Collocations such as 'formal education,' 'cognitive and social skills,' 'structured learning environment,' and 'natural curiosity' are used accurately and naturally. - There are no noticeable errors in spelling or word formation, and the tone is appropriately academic.

Grammatical Range & Accuracy - 9

The essay demonstrates a wide range of complex sentence structures used with full flexibility. - Every sentence is grammatically accurate, showing total control over punctuation and subordinate clauses. - The use of conditional and comparative structures (e.g., 'A later start can lead to...') enhances the clarity and impact of the argument.

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