WRITING TASK 2
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Present a written argument or case to an educated reader with no specialist knowledge.
Write about the following topic:
Some people think that family life and parents have great influences on children’s development, while others consider that external influences play a more important role in children’s life. 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.
Sample Answer:
There is a long-standing debate about the influences on children’s development, with some people believing that family life and parents have the greatest impact, while others argue that external influences play a more significant role. In this essay, I will discuss both views and provide my own opinion on the matter.
Those who believe that family life and parents have the greatest influence on children’s development argue that the nurturing environment provided by the family is crucial for a child’s emotional and psychological well-being. They argue that the values, beliefs, and behaviors children observe and learn from their parents shape their personalities and future outlook on life. Additionally, the quality of the parent-child relationship has been shown to have a direct impact on a child’s social and emotional development.
On the other hand, proponents of the idea that external influences play a more important role in children’s lives argue that children are heavily influenced by their peers, teachers, and the media. They believe that children spend a significant amount of time outside the home, and therefore, the external environment has a greater impact on their development. Peer pressure, societal norms, and cultural influences are seen as significant factors that shape a child’s behavior and beliefs.
In my opinion, both family life and external influences play crucial roles in a child’s development. It is undeniable that the family is the first and most important social environment for a child, and the values and behaviors children learn at home have a lasting impact on their development. However, as children grow older, they are increasingly influenced by the external world, including their peers, teachers, and the media. Therefore, it is important to recognize the significance of both family life and external influences in shaping a child’s development.
In conclusion, while there is a debate about whether family life and parents or external influences have the greatest impact on children’s development, it is clear that both play important roles. It is essential for parents, educators, and society as a whole to create a supportive and nurturing environment for children, both at home and in the external world, to ensure their healthy and holistic development.
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