Task 2- Sample 2

Some people think that a sense of competition in children should

be encouraged. Others believe that children who are taught to co-
operate rather than compete become more useful adults.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

It is often argued that children should be motivated to be competitive,

while others feel that cooperation is a more important value to establish in
the young. I believe that while competition can help children be
successful, cooperation is more important because it teaches them to
work within a team, a crucial skill for them to possess as they enter
adulthood.

Some argue that it is important that young people are pushed to be the
best they can possibly be in whatever pursuit they take part in. This
drive to win boosts their work ethic and teaches them that hard work
and discipline are the keys to success. For example, it was shown in a
recent study by Queen’s University that students who won something in
sports before they reached the age of 14 were 42% more likely to go on
to third-level education than those who did not. Despite this, I would
argue that the development of a child requires not only a will to win, but
also lessons on the value of teamwork.

Working as part of a team, on the other hand, strengthens our empathy,

selflessness and makes us more responsible toward others. This
means that children who are taught cooperation will be better prepared
for adult life because the ability to work as part of a team is highly
regarded in the workplace and in families. For example, Michael Jordan
was often criticised by his coaches for being too competitive in practice
and overly critical of his teammates and he had to change for the sake
of his team. I therefore believe that teaching children to work with
others is more important than giving them a sense of competition.

In conclusion, while instilling a sense of competition in children can

help them succeed, I think that teaching children to be cooperative
gives them the ability to work as part of team, which is far more
valuable later in life.