IELTS.WORK

IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Should schools provide free menstrual products students?

IELTS.WORK Free Online Writing Practice # 1712496208

Topic: Should schools provide free menstrual products for students?

In today's world, there are many issues that need to be addressed in the education system. One such issue is the provision of free menstrual products for students. In this essay, I will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of providing free menstrual products in schools and give my own opinion on whether or not it should be implemented.

Advantages:

1. Financial relief for families: Providing free menstrual products can alleviate the financial burden on low-income families who may struggle to afford these essential items. This could help reduce the number of students absent due to lack of access to menstrual hygiene products, which in turn would improve academic performance and overall school experience for these students.
2. Promotion of gender equality: Making menstrual products available at no cost can promote a more inclusive environment where all students are treated equally, regardless of their biological sex or gender identity. It also sends a strong message that periods are a natural part of life and should not be stigmatized or overlooked.
3. Health and hygiene benefits: Access to free menstrual products in schools can ensure proper menstrual hygiene practices among students, reducing the risk of infections and other health issues associated with improper use or lack of access to these products.
4. Education on menstrual health: Providing free menstrual products in schools presents an opportunity to educate students about menstruation and reproductive health. This can lead to increased awareness, better self-care practices, and a more informed student body.

Disadvantages:

1. Cost concerns: Implementing a program that provides free menstrual products may be expensive for schools, especially those with limited budgets. The cost of purchasing and maintaining these products could potentially be used elsewhere in the school system.
2. Privacy issues: Distributing free menstrual products in schools might raise privacy concerns among students, as some might feel uncomfortable receiving such items from their teachers or classmates. This could lead to a decrease in the uptake of available products and potential stigmatization.
3. Limited impact on the root cause: While providing free menstrual products can help alleviate financial stress for some families, it does not address the systemic issue of income inequality that leads to these families struggling to afford essential items in the first place.

In conclusion, while there are several advantages to providing free menstrual products in schools, such as financial relief for families and promotion of gender equality, there are also potential disadvantages including cost concerns and privacy issues. Ultimately, it is important to consider the specific needs of each school community and weigh these factors carefully before implementing a policy on free menstrual product provision.

Score: Band 7.5 - This answer provides a well-structured response, addressing both the advantages and disadvantages of providing free menstrual products in schools. However, it could have been improved with more detailed explanations and a clearer conclusion, which might have warranted a higher score, such as Band 8 or 9.

Source: https://www.ielts.work/?id=1712496208&page=ielts-writing-practice

For more: https://www.ielts.work/?page=ielts-writing-practice