Children Are Engaged in Some Kind of Paid Work - Band 9 Sample Essays, IELTS Task 2

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Sample Essay 1

In many parts of the world, children participate in paid employment, a practice that generates conflicting opinions. While some argue this is inherently exploitative, I firmly believe that, when appropriately regulated, early work experience can instil responsibility, independence, and practical life skills in young people. This essay will explore how early exposure to work nurtures maturity and prepares children for the complexities of adult life, while also addressing the moral and legal boundaries that must not be crossed.

Allowing children to undertake light, age-appropriate paid work can significantly enhance their personal development. Rather than solely relying on theoretical education, children who engage in part-time jobs learn to manage time, interact professionally, and appreciate the value of money—skills rarely taught in classrooms. For example, a teenager working a few hours at a local bookstore develops punctuality, patience, and communication skills, all of which are transferable to future careers. Moreover, early work experience helps foster a sense of self-worth and accountability, as children realise that their efforts produce tangible results. However, this positive outcome only emerges when work is limited in scope and does not interfere with their education or well-being. Thus, the debate should focus not on whether children should work, but under what conditions they can benefit from it.

Nevertheless, the exploitation of children under the guise of "experience" must be unequivocally condemned. In some developing nations, children are forced into hazardous or full-time labour due to economic desperation, often at the expense of their schooling and health. This scenario clearly violates both ethical principles and international labour laws. Hence, clear regulations are essential to distinguish between beneficial part-time work and harmful child labour. Governments must enforce strict guidelines that set minimum working ages, restrict working hours, and ensure that employment remains voluntary, safe, and secondary to education. Without such safeguards, the risk of abuse becomes too great, and the practice loses all educational merit.

In conclusion, while the idea of children working may initially seem problematic, when properly supervised and regulated, it can offer valuable real-world lessons that formal education alone cannot provide. A balanced approach is essential—encouraging responsibility and skill-building while protecting children from exploitation.

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Sample Essay 2

In numerous countries, children engage in paid employment—a topic that divides public opinion. While critics deem this practice exploitative and harmful, I strongly contend that, under appropriate conditions, it can develop entrepreneurial thinking and deepen children's understanding of societal structures. This essay will argue that early exposure to the labour market can inspire innovation and sharpen real-world problem-solving skills, while also providing young individuals with a deeper appreciation of the socio-economic inequalities that shape the world around them.

The first major benefit of early work is that it can spark entrepreneurial thinking in ways formal education often fails to achieve. In today’s rapidly changing economy, adaptability and innovation are more valuable than rote learning. When a child sells handmade crafts online or helps run a family business, they begin to understand concepts like customer engagement, pricing, and profit margins from an early age. These lessons foster initiative, creativity, and resilience—qualities crucial for future business leaders or freelancers in the gig economy. For instance, many successful tech entrepreneurs and creators began experimenting with small ventures during adolescence. This hands-on experience builds confidence and the ability to navigate ambiguity—traits rarely developed through academic curricula alone. Therefore, strategic work opportunities can help cultivate future innovators rather than mere employees.

Moreover, paid work exposes children to the realities of economic inequality and encourages social awareness, which is often absent from traditional education. When young individuals take up jobs in diverse environments—such as service industries or community-based initiatives—they are more likely to encounter people from varying socio-economic backgrounds. This first-hand exposure can dismantle sheltered worldviews and foster empathy, humility, and a sense of civic duty. For example, a privileged teenager volunteering at a charity store may develop a nuanced understanding of poverty, leading to more socially responsible choices in adulthood. This awareness, when combined with education, shapes individuals who are not only career-oriented but also ethically grounded. Thus, early work can play a critical role in shaping well-rounded citizens who think beyond personal success.

In conclusion, while concerns around child labour must not be dismissed, limited and meaningful work can teach children far more than just responsibility. By cultivating innovation and deepening socio-economic awareness, it equips them to become both enterprising and socially conscious adults.

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