IELTS 5 Writing Model Essay (Free sample)
Test 3 Task 2 Question
Write about the following topic:
Some people think that a sense of competition in children should be encouraged. Others believe that children who are taught to co-operate rather than compete become more useful adults.
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.
Test 3 Task 2 Model Essay by an Expert 1
Everyone remembers that butterflies-in-the-stomach feeling they had when they took part in their first competition, whether it was in sport, in music, or in school. For many, the feeling does not go away even when they become adults. Some believe that because competition is a necessary part of life, children should be encouraged to take part in competitive activities early on. The present essay will consider this perspective, but at the same time will aim to demonstrate that children should be taught about the value of co-operation – a principle which creates happier, more productive, and more able adults.
There are more types of competition for children now than ever before. The spelling test used to be just a classroom exercise – now, in the United States, there is a celebrated National Spelling Bee for which the first prize is $30 000! The organizers of this and other competitions stress the competition’s part in encouraging excellence. While this cannot be denied, it is only part of the picture. When every activity a child might do is judged in competition, a child’s sense of self-worth is decided by his or her ranking. Though excellence is important, it is clear that self-esteem is more important. Moreover, a competitive situation discourages students who do not achieve top results from developing their abilities. The value of competition can replace the value of doing something for its own sake. To teach children self-worth and a love of learning, some other principle is required.
More and more, teachers and coaches of children stress the value of co-operation and teamwork. Co-operation in the classroom or on the team teaches skills that simply cannot be learned in competition. In such settings, children learn how to communicate with one another effectively, and bring their skills together to accomplish a task. Instead of focusing on competitive activities, organizations for youth and children like the Scouts or Brownies ask for personal development and allow children to learn from one another in pursing that goal. This co-operation does not simply create stronger friendships, it teaches skills that future adults will need to know in the work environment.
In examining these values side-by-side, competition appears both unhealthy and unproductive. In valuing co-operation, we do not simply look after children’s emotional needs better, we also teach skills of self-development and communication that are necessary in adult life.
(391 words)
