By English Test Coach · Updated
Academic Task 2 · Opinion / agree or disagree
Financial education at school
An original IELTS practice question with a planning route and a sample answer to learn from.
Aim for at least 250 words in about 40 minutes. Suggested practice level: foundation, not a predicted band.
Your writing task
Some people think that managing personal finances should be taught as a compulsory subject at school. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
How to approach this question
State how far you agree, then develop reasons that support the same position throughout.
Opinion essays: choose a position and develop your reasons →
Worked example: Answer the timetable objection while keeping your position consistent →
Education essays: develop ideas, test their limits and use topic vocabulary →
Supporting view: basic lessons on budgeting and borrowing could prepare pupils for decisions they will face after school.
Limitation: the timetable is already crowded, and teaching abstract rules may not build usable skills. Consider short practical lessons integrated into existing subjects.
These are possible directions, not required opinions or facts to memorise. Develop your own response and check every claim against the task.
A possible plan
- Introduction: state how far you agree and keep that position consistent.
- Body 1: develop your strongest reason with an explanation and a specific example.
- Body 2: develop another reason, or evaluate a counterargument without losing your position.
- Conclusion: answer the question again using the reasoning you have developed.
Vocabulary you can use precisely
Choose language that fits your meaning. You do not need to include every phrase.
- financial literacy
- The knowledge needed to understand everyday money decisions.
Financial literacy lessons could use realistic household budgets.
- informed decisions
- Choices made with relevant knowledge and understanding.
Comparing borrowing costs can help learners make informed decisions.
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