The topic of parents’ responsibility for children’s online safety has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on recent test reports and academic research, this theme appeared in various forms during 2021-2023, particularly in countries with high internet penetration rates. Let’s examine a recent question that exemplifies this topic.
Question Analysis
Some people believe that parents are solely responsible for their children’s safety while using the internet. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question requires candidates to evaluate the role of parents in protecting children online. The key phrase “solely responsible” suggests an absolute position, making it crucial to consider whether parents should bear complete responsibility or if other parties should also be involved.
Parents supervising their child's internet activities at home
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
While the internet offers numerous educational opportunities for children, the question of who should be responsible for their online safety has sparked considerable debate. Although parents play a crucial role, I disagree with the notion that they should bear sole responsibility for their children’s internet safety.
Parents undoubtedly have a fundamental duty to protect their children online. They can implement practical measures such as installing parental control software, setting usage time limits, and monitoring their children’s online activities. Moreover, they are uniquely positioned to educate their children about online risks and establish open communication channels about internet safety.
However, ensuring children’s online safety requires a collaborative approach involving multiple stakeholders. Schools must integrate digital literacy into their curriculum, teaching students about cyberbullying, online privacy, and responsible internet use. Additionally, technology companies and social media platforms should develop and maintain robust safety features, age-verification systems, and content filtering mechanisms.
Furthermore, governments play a vital role by enacting and enforcing legislation to protect minors online, regulating content providers, and supporting educational initiatives. Law enforcement agencies must also actively combat cyber crimes targeting children and work with international partners to create a safer digital environment.
In conclusion, while parents are essential guardians of their children’s online safety, the complexity of the digital world necessitates a shared responsibility approach involving educational institutions, tech companies, and governmental bodies. This comprehensive strategy is more likely to succeed in protecting young internet users.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
These days, many people think parents should take care of their children’s safety on the internet. I think this is not completely right because other people and organizations should also help protect children online.
First, parents can do many things to keep their children safe. They can watch what their children do on computers and phones. They can also tell children about dangerous things on the internet and teach them good ways to use it. But sometimes parents don’t know much about technology or are too busy to watch their children all the time.
Second, schools are important too. Teachers can teach students about internet safety in class. They can explain about bad people online and how to avoid them. Also, schools can have rules about using phones and computers safely.
Third, big companies like Facebook and Google should help. They should make their websites safer for children and stop bad people from hurting kids online. The government should also make laws to protect children on the internet.
In my opinion, keeping children safe online is not just parents’ job. Everyone needs to work together to protect children from internet dangers. If we all help, children can use the internet safely and learn good things from it.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear position with well-developed arguments
- Cohesive paragraphs with smooth transitions
- Relevant examples and specific details
- Academic tone throughout
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Basic argument structure
- Some repetition and informal expressions
- Limited range of complex sentences
- Adequate but simple examples
Key Vocabulary
- digital literacy (n) /ˈdɪdʒɪtəl ˈlɪtərəsi/ – ability to use digital technology effectively
- cyberbullying (n) /ˈsaɪbəˌbʊliɪŋ/ – online harassment or intimidation
- stakeholders (n) /ˈsteɪkˌhoʊldərz/ – people or groups with interest in an issue
- parental control (n) /pəˈrentl kənˈtroʊl/ – features allowing parents to restrict content
- age-verification (n) /eɪdʒ ˌverɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/ – process of confirming user’s age
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or similar variations like:
- The role of schools in children’s online safety
- Government regulations for protecting minors online
- Balancing internet access with safety measures
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.
