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Some people think that young children should be allowed to do paid work,while others..(Band 9 Essay)

Updated: Jun 27

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.


Write about the following topic:


Some people think that young children should be allowed to do paid work, while others think that it should be illegal.

Discuss both points of view and give your opinion.


Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experiences.


You should write at least 250 words.


Task 2 Band 9 Essay Sample (Young Children should be Allowed to do Paid Work)

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Sample Essay 1

The debate surrounding whether young children should be allowed to do paid work is multifaceted, with compelling arguments on both sides. On one hand, proponents advocate for the practical skills and financial independence it can provide. On the other, critics argue it may hinder academic performance and exploit vulnerability. This essay will explore these perspectives, ultimately positing that while work can offer valuable life lessons, it must be carefully regulated to protect children's welfare.


Advocates for allowing young children to engage in paid work argue that it instills a sense of responsibility and financial literacy from an early age. They contend that, through earning their own money, children can learn the value of hard work, money management, and the importance of saving for the future. For instance, a young individual who earns money by tutoring peers or selling handmade crafts online gains not only an income but also develops entrepreneurial skills, discipline, and self-esteem. Furthermore, in families where financial resources are limited, children's contributions can be instrumental in covering educational expenses or supplementing household income, thereby fostering a sense of contribution and belonging.


Conversely, opponents of young children undertaking paid work raise valid concerns about potential risks and drawbacks. Primarily, they argue that such activities can detract from educational pursuits, as time spent working could otherwise be devoted to study or rest. There's also the risk of exploitation, where businesses might take advantage of young workers' naivety to offer lower wages or poor working conditions. Moreover, the psychological impact of balancing work and school can lead to stress and burnout, overshadowing the innocence and joys of childhood. For example, a child laborer in a factory may face long hours and hazardous conditions, jeopardizing both their health and educational prospects.


In conclusion, while the concept of young children engaging in paid work is appealing for its potential to teach valuable life lessons, it is imperative that such opportunities are approached with caution. Regulations must be strictly enforced to ensure that work does not compromise children's education, health, or well-being. Ultimately, fostering a safe and supportive environment where children can learn and grow should be the paramount concern, ensuring that work, when permitted, enriches rather than detracts from the childhood experience.


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Sample Essay 2

The debate surrounding whether young children should be allowed to engage in paid work is multifaceted, with compelling arguments on both sides. On one hand, proponents argue that early exposure to the workforce can instill a sense of responsibility and financial literacy in children. On the other, critics contend that it could detract from their education and well-being. This essay will explore both perspectives before concluding with my viewpoint.


Supporters of the notion that young children should be allowed to do paid work highlight the potential benefits of early work experiences. Such experiences, they argue, not only foster a work ethic but also impart crucial life skills, including time management, interpersonal communication, and the value of earning and saving money. For instance, a child engaged in a simple, part-time job like delivering newspapers or assisting in a family business is likely to develop a deeper understanding of financial matters and the importance of hard work in achieving goals. This, in turn, prepares them for the complexities of adult life, making them more adaptable and resilient.


However, opponents of this view raise serious concerns about the potential downsides. They argue that prioritizing paid work at a young age can significantly hamper a child’s academic performance and deprive them of a carefree childhood, which is crucial for emotional and social development. Furthermore, there's the risk of exploitation and exposure to unsafe working conditions. The emphasis, they suggest, should be on ensuring that children receive a comprehensive education and enjoy their childhood without the pressures of financial responsibility. Educational attainment, they assert, is the cornerstone of long-term success and well-being, which could be compromised by premature employment.


In conclusion, while there are valid arguments for and against young children engaging in paid work, it is imperative to strike a balance that safeguards their education and welfare while potentially providing opportunities for learning and personal growth. Personally, I lean towards the view that young children's primary focus should be on education and enjoying their formative years. Opportunities for work can be introduced gradually as they grow older, ensuring they are prepared for the responsibilities of adult life without compromising their development.


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Sample Essay 3

It is often argued that teenagers should be permitted to execute remunerated tasks, while others disagree and think that such act must be banned. However, though the early involvement at work might hinder children from a continuous academic development, in my opinion, it is more important for them to join workforce and gain necessary life skills. I will elucidate both points of view, along with my opinion, in the following paragraphs.


Allowing or pushing children joining at a paid word should be illegal because a smooth progression of schooling years is important for them to secure a smart academic result, which eventually lead them towards a brighter career. In fact, many teenage children, who pause their schools and get involved in work, end up with a poorer grade than that of the regular students. Moreover, these working children could be barred from entering further education because some of their courses might be allowed only for the regular students. In addition, this failure of a continuous study might restrict these children from joining some companies where an uninterrupted academic progression and a consistent smart grade are more valued that practical skills or experiences. Therefore, in this sense, joining for work at the cost of a good academic journey makes a negative impact on the working children’s career prospect.


On the other hand, there is another popular view that children can gain practical lessons on various technologies, trends, and career options when they decide to opt for a paid work, rather than simply continuing with the theoretical school lessons. This work involvement allows them to gauge market competition and learn other nuances of their target professional fields, which eventually help them to choose their future career options. In fact, majority of the employees who perform better in their profession, are the ones who took a gap from study and decided to go for a paid work in their teenage life. Therefore, it is obvious that allowing children to do paid work brings up an impressive career prospect for them.


In conclusion, though it comes at the cost of a smooth academic progression, joining for a paid work gives young children an incredible opportunity to perceive real-world scenarios. That is why, weighing in both options, this essay asserts that opting for a work is a wiser decision for the children because it helps them to gain a better career in the long run.


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