Cyberbullying has become an increasingly prevalent issue in our digital age, making it a popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. This essay question has appeared in various forms in past IELTS exams and is likely to continue being a relevant subject for future tests. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model essays to help you tackle this challenging topic effectively.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that schools and universities should teach students how to protect themselves from cyberbullying. Others believe it is the responsibility of parents and individuals themselves. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question asks you to discuss two different perspectives on who should be responsible for teaching about cyberbullying prevention. It’s crucial to address both viewpoints and provide your own opinion, supported by clear reasoning and examples.
Model Essay for Band 8-9
Cyberbullying has emerged as a significant concern in our increasingly digital world, prompting debates about who should bear the responsibility for educating young people on how to protect themselves. While some argue that educational institutions should take the lead, others believe this duty falls to parents and individuals. In my opinion, a collaborative approach involving both schools and families is the most effective solution.
Those who advocate for schools and universities to teach cyberbullying prevention argue that these institutions are well-positioned to reach a large number of students simultaneously. Educational settings provide a structured environment where experts can deliver comprehensive programs on digital safety and online etiquette. Moreover, schools can integrate these lessons into their curriculum, ensuring that all students receive consistent and up-to-date information about the risks and consequences of cyberbullying.
On the other hand, proponents of parental and individual responsibility contend that the home environment plays a crucial role in shaping a child’s online behavior. Parents have the advantage of being able to monitor their children’s internet usage more closely and provide personalized guidance based on their specific needs and experiences. Additionally, individuals themselves must take responsibility for their actions online and actively seek information about protecting their digital well-being.
In my view, the most effective approach to addressing cyberbullying is a collaborative effort between educational institutions and families. Schools can provide the foundational knowledge and skills needed to navigate the digital landscape safely, while parents can reinforce these lessons at home and tailor their guidance to their child’s individual circumstances. This combined approach ensures that young people receive consistent messages about online safety from multiple trusted sources.
Furthermore, I believe that involving both schools and families in cyberbullying prevention creates a more comprehensive support system for young people. By fostering open communication between educators and parents, we can create a united front against cyberbullying and provide students with a network of resources to turn to when faced with online harassment.
In conclusion, while both educational institutions and families have important roles to play in teaching cyberbullying prevention, a collaborative approach that leverages the strengths of both is the most effective strategy. By working together, schools and parents can equip young people with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.
(Word count: 377)
Cyberbullying Prevention Education
Model Essay for Band 6-7
Nowadays, cyberbullying has become a big problem for many young people. Some people think schools should teach students how to protect themselves, while others believe parents and individuals are responsible. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On one hand, schools and universities can play an important role in teaching about cyberbullying. They have many students and can reach a lot of young people at once. Teachers can give lessons about online safety and how to be kind on the internet. Schools can also bring in experts to talk about cyberbullying and its effects. This way, all students get the same information and learn how to stay safe online.
On the other hand, some people think parents and individuals should be responsible for learning about cyberbullying. Parents can watch what their children do online and give them advice about being safe. They can also set rules for using the internet at home. Individuals themselves should also learn about cyberbullying and how to protect themselves. They can read about it online or ask for help if they are being bullied.
In my opinion, both schools and families should work together to teach about cyberbullying. Schools can provide general information and skills, while parents can give more personal advice. This way, young people learn about cyberbullying from different sources and have more support.
I think this combined approach is better because it gives students more help. They can learn from teachers at school and then talk to their parents at home. If they have a problem with cyberbullying, they know they can ask for help from both school and family.
In conclusion, I believe that schools, parents, and individuals all have a part to play in teaching about cyberbullying. By working together, they can help young people stay safe online and know what to do if they face cyberbullying.
(Word count: 309)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
- Address all parts of the question: Ensure you discuss both viewpoints and provide your own opinion.
- Use clear topic sentences: Begin each paragraph with a sentence that clearly states the main idea.
- Provide specific examples: Support your arguments with relevant examples or explanations.
- Use appropriate linking words: Connect your ideas smoothly using transition phrases.
- Maintain a formal tone: Avoid colloquial expressions and use academic language.
Vocabulary to Enhance Your Essay
Here are some useful vocabulary items to incorporate into your essay:
- Cyberbullying (noun) /ˈsaɪbəˌbʊliɪŋ/ – the use of electronic communication to bully a person
- Digital literacy (noun) /ˈdɪdʒɪtl ˈlɪtərəsi/ – the ability to use information and communication technologies
- Online etiquette (noun) /ˈɒnlaɪn ˈetɪket/ – the correct or acceptable way of using the internet
- Digital well-being (noun) /ˈdɪdʒɪtl wel-ˈbiːɪŋ/ – a state of health and happiness in relation to digital technology use
- Collaborative approach (noun) /kəˈlæbərətɪv əˈprəʊtʃ/ – a method of working together to achieve a common goal
- Personalized guidance (noun) /ˈpɜːsənəlaɪzd ˈɡaɪdns/ – advice tailored to an individual’s specific needs
- Comprehensive programs (noun) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv ˈprəʊɡræmz/ – complete and thorough courses of action
- Digital landscape (noun) /ˈdɪdʒɪtl ˈlændskeɪp/ – the environment created by digital technology and the internet
Conclusion
Addressing the challenges of cyberbullying is a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the question, structuring your essay effectively, and using appropriate vocabulary, you can craft a compelling response. Remember to practice writing essays on similar topics, such as the impact of social media on youth or the role of technology in education. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further improvement.