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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Should parents read or tell stories to their children or should the children be encouraged to read books, watch movies or TV all by themselves? Which point of view do you agree with? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

Should parents read or tell stories to their children or should the children be encouraged to read books, watch movies or TV all by themselves?

In my view, children should be encouraged to read books, watch movies, and TV all by themselves, rather than relying solely on their parents to read or tell stories to them. While parental involvement in storytelling is beneficial, children should have the freedom to explore different forms of media independently.

Firstly, independent reading and media consumption can help children develop a sense of autonomy and self-reliance. When children are able to choose their own books or programs to engage with, they are more likely to develop a love for learning and entertainment. For example, I remember feeling empowered when I could pick out my own books to read, which motivated me to read more.

Furthermore, exposure to a variety of media can broaden children's perspectives and knowledge. Through books, movies, and TV shows, children can learn about different cultures, historical events, and societal issues. This exposure can help them develop empathy and critical thinking skills, which are essential for their personal growth.

Additionally, independent media consumption can also foster creativity and imagination in children. When they have the freedom to explore different stories and genres, it can inspire them to create their own narratives and ideas. For instance, watching imaginative movies and reading fantasy books encouraged me to write my own stories as a child.

However, it is important for parents to guide their children's media consumption and ensure that the content is age-appropriate and educational. Parents can play a role in recommending books and programs that align with their children's interests and values, while also setting limits on screen time.

In conclusion, while parental involvement in storytelling is valuable, allowing children to read books, watch movies, and TV independently can foster independence, broad-mindedness, and creativity. By striking a balance between parental guidance and independent exploration, children can develop a well-rounded understanding of the world and its stories.

Model Essay #2:

Should parents read or tell stories to their children or should the children be encouraged to read books, watch movies or TV all by themselves?

In my opinion, parents should both read and tell stories to their children, and encourage them to read books. It is important for parents to spend time with their children, sharing stories and fostering a love for reading. However, children should also be encouraged to read independently and explore other forms of media.

Firstly, when parents read or tell stories to their children, it creates a bond and helps in the development of the child's language skills. Research has shown that children who are read to at a young age develop stronger literacy skills and perform better in school. For example, when my mother used to read to me as a child, it not only enhanced my vocabulary but also sparked my interest in reading.

Moreover, encouraging children to read books on their own helps to develop their imagination and critical thinking skills. It allows them to explore different worlds and perspectives, which is essential for their cognitive development. For instance, when I started reading books independently, it expanded my understanding of the world and made me more empathetic towards others.

However, it is also important for children to have limited exposure to movies and TV shows. While these forms of media can be entertaining, excessive screen time can have negative effects on a child's development. Therefore, parents should monitor and limit their children's screen time, while encouraging them to engage in other activities such as reading and outdoor play.

In conclusion, I believe that a balance should be maintained. Parents should read and tell stories to their children, while also encouraging them to read books independently. By doing so, children can reap the benefits of both shared storytelling experiences and independent reading, leading to their overall development.

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