IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Social Media Restrictions for Children Under 16

Social media usage among children has become a prevalent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on recent trends and the increasing concern about the impact of social media on young minds, it’s highly likely that this theme will continue to appear in future IELTS exams. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS tests:

Some people think that children under 16 should not be allowed to use social media. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Analyzing the Question

This question asks for your opinion on whether children under 16 should be prohibited from using social media. Key points to consider:

1. The age limit specified (under 16)
2. The term “not be allowed” implies a complete ban
3. You need to state your level of agreement or disagreement
4. Provide reasons and examples to support your stance

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In today’s digital age, the use of social media by children under 16 has become a contentious issue. While some argue for a complete ban, I believe that a more nuanced approach is necessary, involving education and parental guidance rather than outright prohibition.

Firstly, social media has become an integral part of modern communication and socialization. Banning its use for under-16s could potentially isolate them from their peers and hinder their social development. Many schools and extracurricular activities now use social media platforms to share information and coordinate events, making it an essential tool for young people to stay connected and informed.

Moreover, early exposure to social media, when properly guided, can help children develop crucial digital literacy skills. In an increasingly digital world, understanding how to navigate online platforms, discern credible information, and maintain online safety are vital skills. By allowing supervised access, parents and educators can teach children these skills in a controlled environment, preparing them for responsible digital citizenship in adulthood.

Teenagers using social media on their phones

However, it is undeniable that social media poses certain risks to young users, such as cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and potential addiction. Rather than an outright ban, a more effective approach would be to implement strict privacy settings, age-appropriate content filters, and time limits on usage. Parents and schools should play an active role in educating children about online safety, digital etiquette, and the importance of balancing online and offline activities.

Parent and child talking about internet safety

In conclusion, while the concerns about children’s use of social media are valid, a complete ban for under-16s is neither practical nor beneficial in the long run. Instead, a combination of education, parental guidance, and technological safeguards can help children reap the benefits of social media while minimizing its potential harm. By fostering responsible usage from an early age, we can better prepare the younger generation for the digital future that awaits them.

(Word count: 309)

Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)

This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that justify a high band score:

1. Task Response: The essay clearly addresses all parts of the task, presenting a nuanced view that acknowledges both the benefits and risks of social media use for children under 16.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. Each paragraph focuses on a main idea, and there’s a logical flow of ideas throughout the essay.
3. Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately. Examples include “contentious issue,” “nuanced approach,” “digital literacy skills,” and “digital citizenship.”
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately. It includes complex sentences and various grammatical forms without noticeable errors.
5. Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with explanations and examples, showing depth of critical thinking on the topic.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The use of social media by children under 16 is a topic that many people have strong opinions about. While some think it should be completely banned, I partially agree with this view, believing that some restrictions are necessary but a total ban might be too extreme.

On one hand, there are good reasons to limit social media use for young children. Social media can be addictive and take time away from important activities like studying, physical exercise, and face-to-face interactions. Also, children might be exposed to inappropriate content or online predators, which can be dangerous for their safety and well-being.

Cyberbullying messages on a phone screen

However, completely banning social media for under-16s might not be the best solution. In today’s world, social media is an important part of communication and socializing. Many school projects and activities now involve using social media platforms. If children are not allowed to use these platforms at all, they might miss out on important information and social connections.

Instead of a total ban, I think it would be better to have some restrictions and guidelines. For example, parents could set time limits on social media use and monitor their children’s online activities. Schools could teach students about online safety and how to use social media responsibly. Social media companies could also create special versions of their apps for younger users with stronger safety features.

In conclusion, while it’s important to protect children from the risks of social media, a complete ban for under-16s might be too strict. A better approach would be to have some restrictions and teach children how to use social media safely and responsibly. This way, they can still benefit from social media while being protected from its dangers.

(Word count: 293)

Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)

This essay demonstrates good qualities that justify a band score of 6-7:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses the main parts of the task, presenting a balanced view that partially agrees with the statement. However, it could benefit from more specific examples.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure with introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Paragraphing is appropriate, but the use of cohesive devices could be more sophisticated.
3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is generally appropriate, with some good phrases like “inappropriate content” and “online predators.” However, there’s room for more advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good accuracy. There’s a good attempt at variety, but it could benefit from more complex structures.
5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported, but could be developed further with more specific examples or deeper analysis.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Digital literacy (noun) – /ˈdɪdʒɪtl ˈlɪtərəsi/ – The ability to use information and communication technologies effectively.
2. Cyberbullying (noun) – /ˈsaɪbəˌbʊliɪŋ/ – The use of electronic communication to bully a person, typically by sending messages of an intimidating or threatening nature.
3. Online predator (noun phrase) – /ˈɒnlaɪn ˈpredətə/ – A person who uses the internet to exploit or abuse vulnerable individuals, especially children.
4. Digital citizenship (noun phrase) – /ˈdɪdʒɪtl ˈsɪtɪzənʃɪp/ – The responsible and appropriate use of technology and behavior in digital environments.
5. Content filter (noun phrase) – /ˈkɒntent ˈfɪltə/ – Software designed to restrict access to certain types of online content.
6. Digital etiquette (noun phrase) – /ˈdɪdʒɪtl ˈetɪket/ – The standard of good behavior and politeness on digital platforms and in online interactions.
7. Social development (noun phrase) – /ˈsəʊʃl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – The process by which a child learns to interact with others and develops relationships.
8. Online safety (noun phrase) – /ˈɒnlaɪn ˈseɪfti/ – Practices and measures taken to protect oneself from risks associated with using the internet.

In conclusion, the topic of social media restrictions for children under 16 is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future variations might include questions about the appropriate age for social media use, the role of parents and schools in managing children’s online activities, or the impact of social media on children’s education and social skills. To prepare, practice writing essays on these related topics, focusing on developing well-structured arguments supported by relevant examples.

We encourage you to try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam. Remember to focus on addressing all parts of the question, organizing your ideas clearly, using a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and developing your arguments with specific examples.