Children learn more from playing freely after school

IELTS Band 9 Essay About children learn more from playing freely after school

Here we take a look at a band 9 ielts writing task 2 sample about “Children learn more from playing freely after school”. This sample then will be further analyzed for its vocabulary, grammar and format, so we see how it has qualified for such band score. We also suggest over 200 band 9 IELTS samples released in 2025.

Sample Essay (Band 9)

Children learn more from playing freely after school than doing more organised after school activities.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

The debate over whether children learn more from unstructured free play or organized after-school activities is a contentious one. While some argue that free play fosters creativity and independence, others believe that structured activities provide valuable skills and discipline. In my opinion, both approaches have their merits, but free play offers unique benefits that are irreplaceable for a child’s development.

On the one hand, free play allows children to explore their interests and develop creativity without constraints. When children engage in unstructured play, they use their imagination to create games, solve problems, and interact with peers. For example, building a fort with friends not only encourages teamwork but also enhances problem-solving skills. Moreover, free play promotes autonomy, as children make their own decisions and learn to navigate social dynamics independently. This type of play is essential for developing emotional resilience and self-confidence.

On the other hand, organized after-school activities, such as sports or music lessons, offer structured environments where children can acquire specific skills. These activities often provide opportunities for children to learn discipline, time management, and perseverance. For instance, joining a soccer team teaches children the importance of practice, teamwork, and following rules. Additionally, organized activities can expose children to new interests and talents they might not discover through free play alone. However, these activities can sometimes be overly rigid, leaving little room for creativity and self-expression.

In my view, free play is more beneficial for a child’s overall development because it encourages spontaneity and adaptability. While organized activities have their place, they should not overshadow the importance of unstructured play. Free play allows children to experiment, take risks, and learn from their mistakes in a low-pressure environment. For example, a child who invents a game with friends learns to negotiate rules and resolve conflicts, skills that are invaluable in adulthood. Furthermore, free play helps children develop a sense of curiosity and a love for learning that extends beyond formal education.

In conclusion, while organized after-school activities can teach valuable skills, free play offers irreplaceable benefits for a child’s creativity, independence, and emotional growth. Parents and educators should strive to strike a balance between the two, ensuring that children have ample opportunities for both structured learning and unstructured exploration. By doing so, they can support the holistic development of children and prepare them for the challenges of the future

Academic Vocabulary in the sample for Children learn more from playing freely after school

1. Unstructured (/ʌnˈstrʌktʃərd/)
  - Example: Unstructured playtime is crucial for a child’s creativity.
  - Meaning: Not organized in a formal or rigid way.
2. Creativity (/ˌkriːeɪˈtɪvɪti/)
  - Example: Art classes can help children develop their creativity.
  - Meaning: The use of imagination to create something new.
3. Autonomy (/ɔːˈtɒnəmi/)
  - Example: Giving children autonomy helps them build confidence.
  - Meaning: The ability to make decisions independently.
4. Essential (/ɪˈsɛnʃəl/)
  - Example: Sleep is essential for a child’s growth and development.
  - Meaning: Absolutely necessary; extremely important.
5. Invaluable (/ɪnˈvæljuəbəl/)
  - Example: The experience gained from traveling is invaluable.
  - Meaning: Extremely useful or valuable
Advanced Grammar Structures and Their Contribution to a Higher Band Score:
1. Conditional Sentences (Second Conditional):
  - Example: “If children were given more time for free play, they might develop stronger problem-solving skills.”
  - Contribution: Demonstrates the ability to discuss hypothetical situations, which is a marker of advanced language proficiency.
2. Passive Voice:
  - Example: “Creativity can be fostered through unstructured play.”
  - Contribution: Shifts focus to the action rather than the subject, adding variety and sophistication to the writing.
3. Relative Clauses:
  - Example: “Children who engage in free play often develop better social skills.”
  - Contribution: Adds complexity to sentences and provides additional information without breaking the flow.
4. Cleft Sentences:
  - Example: “What children gain from free play is a sense of independence and creativity.”
  - Contribution: Emphasizes specific parts of the sentence, making the argument more persuasive and nuanced.
5. Inversion for Emphasis:
  - Example: “Not only does free play encourage creativity, but it also promotes emotional resilience.”
  - Contribution: Adds a formal tone and highlights key points, which is essential for achieving a higher band score.

Format and Features of a Band 9 Essay:

Clear Introduction: The introduction presents the topic and the writer’s opinion in a concise manner.
Coherent Paragraphs: Each paragraph focuses on a single idea, supported by examples and explanations.
Academic Vocabulary: The use of advanced and varied vocabulary enhances the quality of the essay.
Complex Grammar Structures: The inclusion of advanced grammar structures demonstrates a high level of language proficiency.
Strong Conclusion: The conclusion summarizes the main points and restates the writer’s opinion effectively.

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