Task 2 · · 15 samples

There is an increasing trend around the world of married couples deciding not to have children. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages for couples who decide to do this.

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Plan your answer

Try your own response before reading the samples.

Ideas to explore

  • Discuss how not having childcare responsibilities may allow partners to focus on careers, study or travel.
  • Explain that couples may have more time and resources for their relationship and personal interests.
  • Consider possible social exclusion or concerns about later-life support, while noting that these outcomes are not inevitable.

Suggested structure

  1. Introduce the trend and indicate that both advantages and disadvantages will be discussed.
  2. Use one body paragraph to explain benefits, supported by concrete examples such as further education or travel.
  3. Use a second body paragraph for social and later-life concerns, qualifying claims rather than treating them as certain.
  4. Conclude by summarising the trade-off and noting that the choice depends on individual priorities.
Useful vocabulary & examples
daily responsibilities
The regular duties that need to be done each day.

Without the daily responsibilities of raising children, couples may have more time for work and personal interests.

career ambitions
A person’s goals and plans for professional progress.

Some couples may choose a child-free life to give more time to their career ambitions.

social inclusion
Feeling accepted and involved in a social group or community.

Couples may seek shared activities to maintain social inclusion when many friends are parents.

family support network
Relatives who may offer practical help or companionship.

Some people worry that they may have a smaller family support network in later life.

Sample answers

AI-completed learning example

352 words · Illustrative target band

An increasing global trend is observed with married couples opting not to have children. This decision entails both advantages and disadvantages for the couples involved. This essay will explore the various pros and cons of couples choosing not to have children. One significant advantage of remaining childless for married couples is the ability to prioritize their own goals and organise their time more flexibly. Howe…

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AI-completed learning example

356 words · Illustrative target band

In contemporary society, there is a growing global trend of married couples opting not to have children. This essay will discuss the advantages and disadvantages for couples who make this decision. While choosing not to have children can provide certain benefits, there are significant negative consequences and potential risks that should be considered. On the one hand, having fewer childcare commitments can leave mor…

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AI-completed learning example

347 words · Illustrative target band

In contemporary society, there is a growing global phenomenon of married couples opting not to have children. This essay aims to discuss the advantages and disadvantages for couples who choose this path. While it can offer benefits in terms of freedom and financial stability, there are substantial negative consequences and potential risks that should be considered. These include possible regret and social pressure, n…

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