Task 2 · · 18 samples

In some cultures, children are often told that they can achieve anything if they try hard enough. what are the advantage and disadvantage of giving children this message.

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Plan your answer

Try your own response before reading the samples.

Ideas to explore

  • The main advantage is that the message gives children a reason to practise.
  • The message can also help children respond constructively to setbacks.
  • The disadvantage is the word anything.

Suggested structure

  1. Give a direct introduction and state the required position.
  2. Explain the first side or reason with a relevant example.
  3. Address the second side and the conditions that limit the claim.
  4. Return to the precise question in the conclusion.
Useful vocabulary & examples
persistence
continuing despite difficulty

This teaches persistence alongside judgement.

an unrealistic promise
an assurance that ignores real limits

Telling children that effort can achieve anything can motivate them, but the promise is too absolute. The advantages concern persistence, while the disadvantages arise when children mistake effort for a guarantee.

constructive feedback
guidance that identifies how to improve

Telling children that effort can achieve anything can motivate them, but the promise is too absolute. The advantages concern persistence, while the disadvantages arise when children mistake effort for a guarantee.

Sample answers

AI-completed learning example

348 words · Illustrative target band

Some civilizations believe and speak to their children about if they try hard enough they can achieve anything. This opinion has some advantages like, children can be more hardworking and they will be more persuasive in life. However like every argument there are two sides and related to this topic there are some disadvantages too. The promise becomes problematic when it is interpreted literally. The main advantage …

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AI-completed learning example

347 words · Illustrative target band

In contemporary society, there has been a noticeable shift in people’s perspectives towards guiding children. Some individuals advocate that children should be told that they can achieve anything if they try hard, while others disagree. I disagree with this opinion and will outline several compelling reasons to justify my standpoint. From a social standpoint, parents should distinguish encouragement from a guarantee …

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AI-completed learning example

342 words · Illustrative target band

In the first place, I would disagree with the premise that „in some cultures” hardworking is laid to children’s heads from the beginning of their lives. On the contrary, this message is very popular and, at first sight, is logical and correct. However, it contains many drawbacks and, theoretically, can negatively influence an individual’s future choices and confidence. The main advantage is that the message gives ch…

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