IELTS Reading Practice: How to Reduce Screen Time

The IELTS Reading section is a crucial component of the test, assessing candidates’ ability to comprehend complex texts and answer various question types. Today, we’ll focus on a topic that has become increasingly relevant in our digital age: how to reduce screen time. This subject has appeared in several IELTS Reading passages over the past few years, reflecting its growing importance in modern society. Given its relevance and frequency, there’s a high likelihood that you may encounter a similar topic in your upcoming IELTS exam.

Let’s dive into a practice passage and questions to help you prepare for this potential exam topic while honing your reading skills.

Reducing screen time illustration

Reading Passage

The Digital Detox Challenge: Strategies for Reducing Screen Time

In today’s hyper-connected world, screens have become an integral part of our daily lives. From smartphones to laptops, tablets to smart TVs, we are constantly surrounded by digital devices that demand our attention. While these technologies offer numerous benefits, excessive screen time has been linked to various health issues, including eye strain, poor sleep quality, and decreased physical activity. As a result, many individuals are now seeking ways to reduce their screen time and achieve a better balance between their digital and real-world experiences.

One effective strategy for reducing screen time is to establish clear boundaries and create “tech-free” zones in your home. Designate certain areas, such as the dining room or bedroom, as spaces where electronic devices are not allowed. This approach helps to create physical and mental separation from screens, promoting more face-to-face interactions and better sleep habits. Additionally, setting specific time limits for device usage can be beneficial. Use built-in screen time tracking features on your devices or download apps that monitor and restrict your usage to help you stick to these limits.

Another key aspect of reducing screen time is finding alternative activities to replace digital entertainment. Engage in hobbies that don’t involve screens, such as reading physical books, practicing arts and crafts, or exploring outdoor activities. Exercise is particularly effective, as it not only reduces screen time but also improves overall health and well-being. Consider joining a sports team, taking up yoga, or simply going for regular walks to decrease your reliance on screens for entertainment and relaxation.

Mindful usage of technology is also crucial in the quest to reduce screen time. Before reaching for your device, pause and ask yourself if it’s necessary or if you’re simply acting out of habit. Implement the “20-20-20” rule when using screens: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This practice helps reduce eye strain and serves as a reminder to limit prolonged screen use.

For many, breaking the cycle of constant notifications and updates is essential to reducing screen time. Turn off non-essential notifications on your devices to minimize distractions and the urge to constantly check your phone. Consider using “Do Not Disturb” modes during specific times of the day, such as during meals or before bedtime, to create periods of uninterrupted, screen-free time.

Lastly, involving family and friends in your efforts to reduce screen time can provide support and accountability. Establish “screen-free” family activities or challenges, where everyone agrees to put away their devices and engage in shared experiences. This not only helps reduce individual screen time but also strengthens relationships and promotes more meaningful interactions.

Reducing screen time is a gradual process that requires conscious effort and lifestyle changes. By implementing these strategies and remaining committed to achieving a healthier balance with technology, individuals can significantly decrease their screen time and reap the benefits of a more connected, present, and fulfilling life.

Questions

True/False/Not Given

Determine if the following statements are True, False, or Not Given based on the information in the passage.

1. Excessive screen time has been linked to improved sleep quality.
2. Creating “tech-free” zones in the home can help reduce screen time.
3. Reading physical books is suggested as an alternative to screen-based activities.
4. The “20-20-20” rule is recommended for improving posture while using screens.
5. Turning off all notifications on devices is essential for reducing screen time.

Multiple Choice

Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.

6. According to the passage, which of the following is NOT mentioned as a strategy for reducing screen time?
   A) Establishing time limits for device usage
   B) Creating “tech-free” zones in the home
   C) Attending digital detox retreats
   D) Engaging in outdoor activities

7. The “20-20-20” rule suggests:
   A) Using screens for 20 minutes, then taking a 20-minute break
   B) Looking at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes for 20 seconds
   C) Limiting screen time to 20 hours per week
   D) Keeping screens 20 inches away from your eyes

Matching Headings

Match the following headings to the appropriate paragraphs in the passage. Write the correct number (i-vii) next to questions 8-12.

i. The importance of alternative activities
ii. Technological solutions for screen time management
iii. The prevalence of screens in modern life
iv. Mindful technology usage techniques
v. Collaborative efforts to reduce screen time
vi. The benefits of reducing screen time
vii. Creating physical boundaries for technology use

8. Paragraph 1 _____
9. Paragraph 2 _____
10. Paragraph 3 _____
11. Paragraph 4 _____
12. Paragraph 6 _____

Short Answer Questions

Answer the following questions using NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS from the passage for each answer.

13. What specific feature do some apps offer to help users control their screen time?

14. What practice is recommended to reduce eye strain when using screens?

15. What mode can be activated on devices to create uninterrupted, screen-free periods?

Answer Key and Explanations

True/False/Not Given

1. False – The passage states that excessive screen time has been linked to “poor sleep quality,” not improved sleep quality.
2. True – The passage mentions creating “tech-free” zones in the home as an effective strategy for reducing screen time.
3. True – The passage suggests “reading physical books” as an alternative to screen-based activities.
4. Not Given – While the “20-20-20” rule is mentioned, it’s described as a method to reduce eye strain, not improve posture.
5. False – The passage recommends turning off “non-essential notifications,” not all notifications.

Multiple Choice

6. C – Attending digital detox retreats is not mentioned in the passage as a strategy for reducing screen time.
7. B – The passage states that the “20-20-20” rule involves taking “a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away” every 20 minutes.

Matching Headings

8. iii – The first paragraph introduces the prevalence of screens in modern life.
9. vii – The second paragraph discusses creating physical boundaries for technology use, such as “tech-free” zones.
10. i – The third paragraph focuses on the importance of finding alternative activities to replace screen time.
11. iv – The fourth paragraph discusses mindful technology usage techniques.
12. v – The sixth paragraph talks about involving family and friends in efforts to reduce screen time, which is a collaborative approach.

Short Answer Questions

13. Usage restrictions (or “restrict your usage”)
14. 20-20-20 rule
15. Do Not Disturb

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Misinterpreting “Not Given” statements: Remember that “Not Given” means the information is neither confirmed nor contradicted in the passage.
2. Overlooking key words: Pay close attention to words like “all,” “some,” or “never” in the questions, as they can change the meaning significantly.
3. Relying on prior knowledge: Base your answers solely on the information provided in the passage, not on your personal knowledge of the topic.
4. Failing to follow word limits: In short answer questions, adhere strictly to the word limit specified.
5. Rushing through the passage: Take time to understand the main ideas and structure of the text before attempting to answer questions.

Vocabulary

• Hyper-connected (adjective): /ˌhaɪpərk.əˈnek.tɪd/ – Excessively or constantly connected through digital devices and networks.
• Integral (adjective): /ˈɪn.tɪ.ɡrəl/ – Essential or fundamental.
• Eye strain (noun): /ˈaɪ streɪn/ – Discomfort and fatigue of the eyes caused by intensive use.
• Mindful (adjective): /ˈmaɪnd.fəl/ – Conscious or aware.
• Accountability (noun): /əˌkaʊn.təˈbɪl.ə.ti/ – The fact or condition of being accountable; responsibility.

Grammar Focus

Pay attention to the use of conditional sentences in the passage, such as:

“Before reaching for your device, pause and ask yourself if it’s necessary or if you’re simply acting out of habit.”

This is an example of a first conditional sentence, used to talk about real and possible situations in the present or future. The structure is:

If + present simple, … will + infinitive

Practice forming similar sentences related to reducing screen time, for example:
“If you create tech-free zones, you will reduce your screen time.”

Tips for Success in IELTS Reading

1. Time management is crucial. Allocate your time wisely among the three passages in the IELTS Reading test.
2. Skim the passage quickly first to get a general idea before diving into the questions.
3. Read the instructions carefully for each question type, as they may vary.
4. For True/False/Not Given questions, be particularly careful with the “Not Given” option. Don’t make assumptions based on your own knowledge.
5. In Multiple Choice questions, eliminate obviously incorrect options to increase your chances of selecting the correct answer.
6. For Matching Headings, focus on the main idea of each paragraph rather than specific details.
7. In Short Answer questions, pay close attention to the word limit and use words directly from the passage.
8. Practice regularly with various IELTS Reading passages to improve your speed and accuracy.

Remember, reducing screen time is not only beneficial for your health but also for your IELTS preparation. By managing your digital usage effectively, you can allocate more time to focused study and practice, ultimately improving your chances of success in the IELTS exam.

For more tips on improving your English skills and preparing for the IELTS exam, check out our articles on how to reduce your digital footprint and how to improve your sleep habits. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!