Online gaming and its impact on young people’s behavior has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this theme has appeared multiple times since 2019, particularly in questions about technology’s influence on society and youth development. How online gaming influences adolescent behavior is likely to remain relevant in future tests given its growing significance in modern society.
Analysis of Task Question
Some people believe that playing online games has negative effects on young people’s behavior. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
This is an agree/disagree essay that requires you to present and justify your position on whether online gaming negatively impacts youth behavior. The impact of video games on youth behavior needs to be discussed with relevant examples and clear reasoning.
Young people playing online games with visible behavioral effects
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The influence of online gaming on young people’s conduct has become a contentious issue, with many arguing that it leads to detrimental behavioral changes. While I partially agree that excessive gaming can have some negative impacts, I believe the effects are more nuanced and can even be positive when properly managed.
Undoubtedly, uncontrolled online gaming can result in concerning behavioral patterns. Primarily, excessive gaming may lead to social isolation as young people spend countless hours in virtual worlds rather than engaging in real-life interactions. Additionally, exposure to violent gaming content could potentially normalize aggressive behavior, particularly among impressionable adolescents who may struggle to distinguish between virtual and real-world consequences.
However, when approached responsibly, online gaming can foster positive behavioral development. Modern multiplayer games often require sophisticated teamwork, strategic thinking, and effective communication – skills that are valuable in academic and professional settings. Furthermore, gaming communities can provide platforms for cross-cultural interaction and friendship formation, helping young people develop social competencies and cultural awareness.
The key lies in balanced engagement and proper guidance. Parents and educators should establish clear boundaries regarding gaming time and content while acknowledging its potential benefits. This might include selecting games that promote problem-solving and collaboration, monitoring gaming duration, and encouraging a healthy mix of virtual and real-world activities.
In conclusion, while excessive online gaming can lead to behavioral concerns, its effects largely depend on how it is managed. Rather than condemning gaming entirely, society should focus on fostering responsible gaming habits that can contribute positively to young people’s development.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, many people think online games are bad for young people’s behavior. I partly agree with this opinion because there are both good and bad effects of playing online games.
On the negative side, online gaming can cause some problems. First, many young people spend too much time playing games and forget about their studies. They may stay up late at night playing games, which makes them tired at school the next day. Also, some online games have violence, which might make young people become more aggressive in real life.
However, online games can also have some positive effects. When young people play games together, they can learn how to work in teams and make new friends. Many games also help players improve their English skills because they need to communicate with other players from different countries. How online gaming affects social skills in adolescents shows both positive and negative aspects.
I think the solution is to control how much time young people spend on games. Parents should set rules about gaming time and make sure their children also do other activities like sports and studying. Schools can also teach students about using games in a good way.
In conclusion, while online gaming can cause some behavioral problems, it’s not completely bad if properly controlled. The most important thing is finding the right balance between gaming and other activities.
Key Vocabulary
- contentious (adj) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause disagreement
- detrimental (adj) /ˌdetrɪˈmentl/ – causing harm or damage
- nuanced (adj) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle differences
- normalize (v) /ˈnɔːməlaɪz/ – make normal or standard
- impressionable (adj) /ɪmˈpreʃənəbl/ – easily influenced
- foster (v) /ˈfɒstə(r)/ – encourage the development of something
- competencies (n) /ˈkɒmpɪtənsiz/ – skills or abilities
- equilibrium (n) /ˌiːkwɪˈlɪbriəm/ – a state of balance
Looking to practice your writing skills? Try writing your own essay response to this question and share it in the comments below. Future topics might include questions about gaming addiction, technology dependence, or virtual reality’s impact on education.
