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Discussionacademic·2025

Some people believe that parents should teach their children about money management from a young age. Others think that schools should be responsible for this. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Write **at least 250 words**. Spend ~40 minutes. This is a real IELTS exam-style question.

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Step 1

IELTS Examiner Tips for This Topic

1

For this 'Discuss both views' essay, dedicate one distinct body paragraph to exploring the arguments for parents teaching money management and another separate paragraph for the arguments supporting schools taking this responsibility. Resist the urge to blend these views or introduce your personal opinion prematurely; your stance should be clearly articulated and justified in the conclusion after both perspectives have been thoroughly discussed.

2

To strengthen your arguments, consider specific examples. For the parental view, you could discuss how daily household budgeting or managing pocket money provides practical, real-world lessons, fostering values like delayed gratification. For the school's role, mention how structured curricula, similar to programs in countries like Singapore or parts of the UK, ensure universal access to foundational financial knowledge, covering topics like saving, investing basics, and debt management.

3

The most common mistake on this question is failing to give equal weight and development to both perspectives before offering your own opinion. Students often rush to present their preferred view or introduce their stance too early in the body paragraphs. To avoid this, ensure each body paragraph fully explores *one* side of the argument with detailed explanations and examples, reserving your personal, well-reasoned opinion exclusively for the concluding paragraph.

4

Employ clear transitional phrases to guide the reader through your discussion. For instance, after introducing the topic, you might begin the first body paragraph with 'One compelling argument for parental involvement in financial education is...' When transitioning to the opposing view, use phrases like 'Conversely, a strong case can be made for schools to assume this responsibility...' or 'While the merits of home-based learning are clear, an alternative perspective highlights the advantages of institutional instruction.'

5

For a band 8-9 response to this specific question, examiners look for a nuanced discussion that not only presents both sides but also explores the *interplay* and *complementary nature* of parental and school roles, perhaps even suggesting a collaborative approach in your opinion. Demonstrate sophisticated vocabulary related to financial literacy, pedagogy, and child development, ensuring your arguments are logically extended and supported, with a clear, well-justified personal opinion that synthesizes the preceding discussion.

Step 2

Recommended Essay Structure (Band 7+ Standard)

1
Introduction

Show mastery by presenting both sides fairly and establishing your stance.

  • Demonstrate understanding of BOTH perspectives — this shows critical thinking
  • State which side you lean toward — even if you're discussing both equally
  • Maintain neutral, academic tone — avoid emotional language or bias

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

There are differing opinions on whether...While some people believe that..., others argue that...This essay will examine both perspectives before reaching a conclusion.
2
Body Paragraph 1 — First Viewpoint

Present one side with respect and credibility.

  • Even if you disagree, present this view authentically with real examples
  • Use academic reporting language: 'Research indicates...', 'Studies show...', 'Experts argue...'
  • Acknowledge strengths — this demonstrates balanced analysis and earns marks

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

On the one hand, supporters of this view argue that...Those in favour point out that...A key argument for this position is...
3
Body Paragraph 2 — Opposing Viewpoint

Present the counter-argument with equal depth and sophistication.

  • Match the structure and depth of paragraph 1 — examiners compare them
  • Use contrasting transition words: 'Conversely', 'In contrast', 'On the other hand'
  • If you have an opinion, make this paragraph slightly stronger — but stay fair

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

On the other hand, critics contend that...However, there is a strong counter-argument...Conversely, many people feel that...
4
Conclusion

Synthesize both views and deliver your decisive judgment.

  • Acknowledge validity of both sides — this shows intellectual maturity
  • State your preference clearly and confidently — don't hedge or waffle
  • Take a firm position — examiners reward clarity over fence-sitting

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

In conclusion, while both sides have merit, I believe that...Having considered both arguments, it seems that...

Step 3

High-Scoring Vocabulary & Collocations

financial literacyThe ability to understand and effectively use various financial skills, including personal financial management, budgeting, and investing.
delayed gratificationThe ability to resist the temptation for an immediate reward and wait for a later, greater reward.
fiscal responsibilityThe responsibility for one's financial affairs; the prudent management of personal or public finances.
it is widely acknowledged thatA phrase used to introduce a generally accepted fact or belief.
a compelling argument can be made forA phrase used to introduce a strong and persuasive reason.
this notion is predicated onThis idea or belief is based on or depends on.
from my perspectiveUsed to introduce one's personal opinion or viewpoint.
the evidence overwhelmingly suggestsUsed to indicate that there is a great deal of support for a particular claim.
notwithstandingIn spite of; although.
it could be argued thatUsed to introduce a point that is debatable or one perspective among others.

Step 4

Academic Phrases for This Essay Type

It is widely acknowledged thatThere is compelling evidence to suggestThis phenomenon can be attributed toA growing body of research indicatesThe implications of this are far-reachingThis raises important questions aboutFrom a broader perspectiveIt would be short-sighted to ignore

Addition

MoreoverFurthermoreIn additionWhat is more

Contrast

HoweverNeverthelessOn the other handConversely

Cause / Effect

ConsequentlyAs a resultThereforeThis leads to

Example

For instanceTo illustrateA case in point isSuch as

Concession

AlthoughWhile it is true thatDespiteAdmittedly

Step 5

Grammar Patterns for Band 7+

Complex sentence with concession

Although some argue that technology isolates people, the evidence suggests it strengthens connections.

Shows advanced grammatical control. Start with 'Although/While' + opposing view, then state your position — demonstrates nuanced thinking.

Conditional (Type 2)

If governments invested more in public transport, traffic congestion would decrease significantly.

Perfect for hypothetical scenarios and solutions. Structure: 'If + past simple, would + infinitive' — shows flexibility and imagination.

Passive for academic tone

It is often argued that education should be free. However, this view overlooks the practical challenges.

Academic writing favors passive constructions. 'It is + past participle + that' creates authoritative, objective tone.

Relative clause

Students who study abroad, which is becoming increasingly common, tend to develop greater independence.

Adds sophistication without complexity. Use 'who' for people, 'which' for things, 'that' for either.

Noun phrase for density

The rapid expansion of urban areas has led to increased pollution levels.

Packs more information into fewer words. 'The implementation of effective policies' vs 'policies are implemented effectively' — boosts Lexical Resource score.

Step 6

Band 9 Model Answer (Fully Marked)

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