Should children learn a foreign language as early as possible?

A score 160 model answer to a real Duolingo English Test writing question in the official format, with notes on why it scores. Write your own version below it and get an instant rater-style score.

The question

Some people believe children should start learning a foreign language as early as possible, while others think it is better to wait until secondary school. What is your opinion, and why?

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Score 160 model answer

I believe children should start a foreign language early, but for a different reason than the one usually given. The famous claim is that young brains absorb languages effortlessly, and that is partly true for pronunciation. To me the stronger argument is about identity: a child who grows up using two languages learns, before any prejudice can form, that there are two ways to say everything and therefore many ways to see anything. That flexibility outlasts vocabulary. I would only caution against turning early learning into early pressure, since a five-year-old drilled with flashcards learns mainly to dislike the subject. Songs, cartoons and one bilingual grandparent teach more at that age than any curriculum, and the exams can wait for secondary school.

Why this answer earns score 160

Takes the expected position but supports it with an unexpected, deeper reason.
The caution against pressure adds balance without weakening the stance.
Concrete methods (songs, cartoons, a grandparent) keep the answer grounded.

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Questions about this answer

What score is this model answer?

It is written to score 160, and the notes under it quote the answer's own words to show why.

How long should my answer be?

This model answer is 122 words, and the task asks for at least 50.

What is the most common mistake with a model answer?

Memorising it. Raters recognise recycled answers instantly, so study the moves, then make them with your own ideas.