GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 369
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Nowadays, people are moving to other countries for better careers and life. Some people think that it affects the children of such families negatively while others think it is beneficial to the children.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1:
Emigration for better job opportunities and life has become an apparent trend today. Many believe that it has negative impacts on children, yet others opine that it is advantageous for their children. While this trend has both positive and negative results, I believe that it is mostly positive for children.
On the one hand, children may be in culture shock after leaving their own country and settling in a new country. Put simply, when children move to a new country, they enter a culture that is distinctly different from the one they left. They encounter unfamiliar food, clothes, and weather as well as different people, traditions, languages and values. They often find themselves struggling to do things in their new surroundings. The distinctions between cultures prove to make it difficult to cope with their new surroundings, thereby feeling shocked. A case in point is the language barrier. A recent study revealed that 36% of migrated children suffer from the language barrier.
On the other hand, children can reap the benefits of immigrating to an exotic country. To commence with, youngsters can acquire the language of the country they are living in. Since they interact with the language speakers every day, it becomes easier to learn the language in a relevant cultural context. Migration, in fact, opens up the opportunity to immerse completely themselves in a new language and thus, master the language. For instance, many studies have revealed that immersion is the best approach to excel in another language and grasp the culture. Moreover, they can develop an understanding and appreciation of the host country’s citizens and improve multicultural competence.
For this reason, I think that the children of immigrants gain considerable advantages from living in a new State. It helps them learn a new language, understand cultural diversity and open up the opportunity for a better future.
To conclude, migrating to a new country is a trend that is increasing faster and this has both advantages and demerits for the children of migrating families. Children may get culture shock at first, but the advantages of relocation and living in a new country, acquiring a new language and adapting to a new culture prove beneficial for the expatriate’s children.
Model Answer 2:
In contemporary times, many families are relocating to foreign countries in pursuit of improved career prospects and a better quality of life. While some argue that it has negative implications for children, others believe that it can be beneficial. This essay will examine both views. However, it is my contention that the overall effect is detrimental to the well-being and development of these children.
On the one hand, proponents of the positive viewpoint argue that moving to other countries exposes children to diverse cultures and experiences, enhancing their adaptability and broadening their horizons. They suggest that living in multicultural environments can foster a global mindset and tolerance towards different perspectives. Additionally, children may gain proficiency in multiple languages, which can be advantageous in an interconnected world. For instance, a child growing up in a cosmopolitan city like London may have the opportunity to interact with individuals from various cultural backgrounds and develop a multicultural perspective.
On the other hand, there are compelling arguments that support the negative impact of such migration on children. Relocating to unfamiliar environments can disrupt the stability and consistency that children need for healthy development. It may result in challenges related to language barriers, social integration, and difficulties in adapting to new educational systems. Furthermore, being separated from extended family members and their familiar support systems can lead to feelings of isolation and homesickness. For instance, children may struggle to forge meaningful connections and develop a sense of belonging in a new school environment.
Taking into consideration the potential challenges and disruptions faced by children in such circumstances, I am inclined to support the view that the impact of international migration on children is predominantly negative. While exposure to diverse cultures can be valuable, the potential emotional, social, and educational consequences outweigh these benefits.
In conclusion, the migration of individuals to other countries for career and lifestyle improvements impacts children both positively and negatively. Although it offers valuable opportunities for cultural enrichment of children, the potential negative consequences on children’s well-being and development cannot be overlooked. Therefore, it is imperative to consider the holistic development and stability of children when making decisions related to international migration.