The impact of reading books on child development is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately every 4-6 months in actual tests. Based on analysis of past exams from 2018-2023, this topic has appeared in various forms, particularly focusing on the comparison between traditional books and digital media. Let’s examine one of the most frequently encountered question types.
Children reading traditional books for educational development
Question Analysis and Sample Essays
Some people believe that children should be encouraged to read books in their free time instead of playing video games or watching TV. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Question Analysis
This question asks for your opinion on whether children should spend their leisure time reading books rather than engaging with electronic entertainment. The key aspects to address are:
- Benefits of reading books vs. screen-based activities
- Impact on child development
- Balanced perspective on leisure activities
impact of reading on cognitive development studies have shown significant advantages of early reading habits.
Band 8 Sample Essay
In my opinion, I strongly agree that children should be encouraged to read books during their leisure time, although some exposure to digital media can also be beneficial when properly managed. This essay will explore the substantial benefits of reading and why it should be prioritized over excessive screen time.
Reading books offers numerous cognitive and developmental advantages that screen-based activities cannot fully replicate. Firstly, reading enhances vocabulary acquisition and language skills in a more comprehensive way than passive entertainment forms. When children read, they encounter new words in context, improving their understanding and retention. Moreover, books develop critical thinking and imagination as readers must visualize scenes and characters independently.
should children be limited in screen time is a crucial consideration, as excessive screen exposure can negatively impact development. While video games and television can provide entertainment and sometimes educational content, they often limit creative thinking and reduce attention spans. Books, conversely, require sustained focus and active engagement, building crucial cognitive skills that benefit children throughout their academic careers and beyond.
Furthermore, regular reading habits contribute to emotional development and empathy. Through literature, children experience different perspectives and situations, helping them understand various human experiences and emotions. This emotional literacy is particularly valuable in today’s increasingly digital world, where face-to-face interactions are becoming less common.
In conclusion, while modern entertainment forms have their place, the unique benefits of reading make it an essential activity that should be actively encouraged in children’s free time. Parents and educators should strive to create an environment where reading is seen as an engaging and rewarding activity rather than a chore.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
I agree that children should spend more time reading books instead of playing games or watching TV. There are many good reasons for this opinion.
First, reading books helps children learn more words and improve their language. When kids read stories, they see how to use words correctly and learn new meanings. This is better than just watching TV where they only listen passively.
How does technology affect children’s creativity? This is important because too much screen time can reduce imagination. Books make children think more and use their imagination to picture the story in their minds. Video games and TV shows give them ready-made pictures and don’t let them think creatively.
Also, reading books is good for children’s school work. It helps them understand their subjects better and improves their concentration. Many studies show that children who read regularly get better grades than those who spend lots of time on games and TV.
However, we cannot completely stop children from using technology because it is part of modern life. The best solution is to have a balance, with more time for reading than screen activities.
In conclusion, I believe reading books is very important for children’s development and should be encouraged more than electronic entertainment. Parents should help make reading fun and interesting for their children.
Key Vocabulary
- cognitive development (n.) /ˈkɒɡnətɪv dɪˈveləpmənt/ – mental growth and learning
- vocabulary acquisition (n.) /və(ʊ)ˈkabjʊləri ˌakwɪˈzɪʃ(ə)n/ – process of learning new words
- sustained focus (adj. + n.) /səˈsteɪnd ˈfəʊkəs/ – maintained attention
- emotional literacy (n.) /ɪˈməʊʃənl ˈlɪt(ə)rəsi/ – ability to understand emotions
- passive entertainment (adj. + n.) /ˈpæsɪv ˌentəˈteɪnmənt/ – entertainment requiring little mental effort
Conclusion
The topic of reading books versus screen time continues to be relevant in IELTS examinations. Future questions might explore:
- The role of digital books in child development
- The balance between traditional and modern learning methods
- The impact of reading habits on academic success
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
