IELTS HUBIELTS Discussion Essay on Family & Nature & Society
Full IELTS Writing Task 2
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Research indicates that the characteristics we are born with have greater influence on our personality and development than our upbringing. However, some people believe that it is our upbringing that has the greater influence.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Write at least 250 words.
Introduction
Paraphrase debate (natural traits vs. upbringing). State opinion (agree with upbringing having greater influence).
Body Paragraph 1 View 1
Argue for natural traits being dominant. Point 1: Genetic factors (temperament, intelligence) + example (high IQ child). Point 2: Physical features (height, attractiveness) + example (tall person confidence).
Body Paragraph 2 View 2
Argue for upbringing being more convincing. Point 1: Environment/early experiences shape attitudes, beliefs, actions + example (caring environment -> secure attachment/self-esteem). Point 2: Cultural/societal norms shape world view + example (society valuing education). Justify why this view is more convincing.
Conclusion
Summarize (natural traits impact, upbringing more significant). Restate upbringing shapes attitudes, beliefs, and world view.
Band 9 Sample Answer:
In the field of human growth, there's a debate between those who think our natural traits largely form our personalities, and those who argue that our upbringing is more crucial. I personally agree with the second viewpoint.
Those who support the idea of natural traits being dominant present strong arguments. They say that genetic factors, like temperament or intelligence, are the foundation of our personalities. For example, a child with a high IQ will likely show advanced thinking skills regardless of their surroundings. They also argue that physical features, like height or attractiveness, can greatly affect a person's self-image and social interactions. A tall person might naturally show more confidence due to society's views of height and power, regardless of how they were raised.
However, despite these reasonable points, I find the argument for the impact of upbringing more convincing. The environment we grow up in, especially our early experiences, can deeply shape our attitudes, beliefs, and actions. A child brought up in a caring, supportive environment is likely to develop a secure attachment style and positive self-esteem, leading to healthier adult relationships. Also, the cultural and societal norms we encounter during our early years can greatly shape our view of the world. For example, a child brought up in a society that values education and hard work is more likely to adopt these values and aim for academic and professional success.
In conclusion, while natural traits do have an impact, I believe our upbringing has a more significant influence on our personality and growth. It shapes our attitudes and beliefs and introduces us to societal norms that shape our view of the world.
Band 7 Sample Answer:
In the realm of human development, a dichotomy exists between those who believe that inherent characteristics significantly shape our personalities, and those who posit that our upbringing plays a more pivotal role. Personally, I align with the latter perspective.
Those who advocate for the dominance of innate traits have compelling arguments. They assert that genetic predispositions, such as temperament or intelligence, are the bedrock of our personalities. For instance, a child born with a high IQ is likely to exhibit advanced cognitive abilities irrespective of their environment. Additionally, they argue that physical attributes, such as height or attractiveness, can significantly influence an individual's self-perception and social interactions. A tall person, for example, might naturally exude more confidence due to societal perceptions of height and authority, regardless of their upbringing.
However, despite these valid points, I find the argument for the influence of upbringing more persuasive. The environment in which we are raised, particularly our early experiences, can profoundly shape our attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors. A child raised in a nurturing, supportive environment is likely to develop a secure attachment style and positive self-esteem, which can lead to healthier relationships in adulthood. Furthermore, the cultural and societal norms we are exposed to during our formative years can significantly influence our worldview. For instance, a child raised in a society that values education and hard work is more likely to adopt these values and strive for academic and professional success.
In conclusion, while inherent traits do have their influence, it is our upbringing that holds a more substantial sway over our personality and development, as it shapes our attitudes and beliefs, and exposes us to societal norms that guide our worldview.