IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Limiting Children’s Screen Time with Expert Analysis

Screen time for children has become a hot topic in recent years, especially with the increasing prevalence of digital devices in our daily lives. This issue has been featured in several IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, and it’s likely to appear more frequently in future tests. Let’s examine a real IELTS question on this subject and analyze sample essays for different band scores.

Some people think that parents should control the time that young people spend using electronic devices such as computers and mobile phones. Others believe that young people should be free to use these devices as much as they want. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question asks us to discuss two contrasting views on controlling young people’s use of electronic devices. It’s important to:

1. Explain both perspectives
2. Provide reasons and examples for each view
3. State your own opinion
4. Use a balanced approach in your discussion

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In today’s digital age, the issue of regulating young people’s screen time has become a subject of heated debate. While some argue that parents should impose strict limits on device usage, others believe in giving youth unrestricted access. This essay will examine both viewpoints before presenting my own stance on the matter.

Those who advocate for parental control argue that excessive screen time can have detrimental effects on children’s physical and mental well-being. Prolonged use of electronic devices has been linked to various health issues, including eye strain, poor posture, and disrupted sleep patterns. Moreover, uncontrolled access to the internet and social media can expose young people to inappropriate content, cyberbullying, and online predators. By setting boundaries, parents can ensure a healthier balance between digital engagement and other essential activities such as physical exercise, face-to-face social interactions, and academic pursuits.

On the other hand, proponents of unrestricted access contend that digital literacy is crucial in the modern world, and limiting screen time may hinder young people’s technological competence. They argue that electronic devices offer valuable educational resources and opportunities for skill development that are essential for future academic and professional success. Furthermore, these devices facilitate communication and social connections, which are particularly important for today’s youth. Advocates of this view believe that young people should learn to self-regulate their device usage, developing important time management skills in the process.

In my opinion, while both arguments have merit, a balanced approach is most beneficial. Parents should indeed set reasonable limits on screen time, particularly for younger children who may lack self-control. However, these restrictions should be flexible and age-appropriate, gradually allowing more freedom as children demonstrate responsible usage. It is crucial for parents to engage in open dialogue with their children about the benefits and risks of electronic devices, fostering critical thinking and self-awareness. By doing so, young people can learn to make informed decisions about their screen time while developing essential digital skills.

In conclusion, the key to addressing this issue lies in finding a middle ground. By combining thoughtful parental guidance with opportunities for independent decision-making, we can help young people navigate the digital world responsibly while reaping its benefits.

(Word count: 350)

Family discussing screen time limits

Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)

This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that would likely earn it a Band 8 or 9 score:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting the writer’s own opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. Ideas are logically sequenced, and cohesive devices are used effectively throughout.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is sophisticated and precise. Examples include “detrimental effects,” “disrupted sleep patterns,” “digital literacy,” and “self-regulate.”

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a wide range of complex structures used accurately. For instance, “Those who advocate for parental control argue that…” and “By doing so, young people can learn to make informed decisions…”

5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of the topic.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Nowadays, many young people spend a lot of time using electronic devices like computers and smartphones. Some people think parents should control this time, while others believe young people should be free to use these devices as much as they want. In this essay, I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

Those who support parental control have some good reasons. First, too much screen time can be bad for health. It can cause problems like poor eyesight and lack of exercise. Second, when children spend too much time on devices, they might not do other important things like homework or spending time with family. Also, the internet can be dangerous for children if they use it without supervision.

On the other hand, people who think young people should use devices freely also have valid points. They say that in today’s world, it’s important to be good with technology. Using devices a lot can help young people learn these skills. Also, many educational resources are available online, so using devices can help with learning. Some people also think that young people should learn to manage their own time.

In my opinion, I think a mix of both ideas is best. Parents should set some rules about screen time, especially for younger children. But they should also allow some freedom, especially as children get older. It’s important for parents to teach children about using devices responsibly rather than just setting strict rules.

To conclude, while both views have their merits, I believe a balanced approach is most effective. Parents should guide their children’s use of electronic devices while also allowing them to develop their own sense of responsibility.

(Word count: 285)

Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)

This essay demonstrates good qualities that would likely earn it a Band 6 or 7 score:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and presenting the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing. There’s a logical progression of ideas, though the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated than in the Band 8-9 essay.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, with some attempts at more sophisticated words like “supervision” and “valid points.” However, there’s less precision and variety compared to the higher band essay.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, generally with good control. There are no major grammatical errors, but the range is not as wide as in the Band 8-9 essay.

5. Development of Ideas: Each main point is supported with reasons and examples, though they could be more fully elaborated.

Children using electronic devices in living room

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Screen time (noun) – /skri:n taɪm/ – The amount of time spent using a device with a screen such as a smartphone, computer, television, or video game console.

2. Electronic devices (noun phrase) – /ɪlekˈtrɒnɪk dɪˈvaɪsɪz/ – Pieces of equipment that use electricity and electronic circuits, such as computers, smartphones, or tablets.

3. Digital literacy (noun phrase) – /ˈdɪdʒɪtl ˈlɪtərəsi/ – The ability to use information and communication technologies to find, evaluate, create, and communicate information.

4. Cyberbullying (noun) – /ˈsaɪbəbʊliɪŋ/ – The use of electronic communication to bully a person, typically by sending messages of an intimidating or threatening nature.

5. Self-regulate (verb) – /self ˈregjʊleɪt/ – To control one’s own behavior, emotions, or thoughts, especially in difficult situations.

6. Time management (noun phrase) – /taɪm ˈmænɪdʒmənt/ – The ability to use one’s time effectively or productively, especially at work.

7. Parental control (noun phrase) – /pəˈrentl kənˈtrəʊl/ – Features or software that allow parents to monitor and restrict their children’s access to certain content or activities.

8. Digital engagement (noun phrase) – /ˈdɪdʒɪtl ɪnˈgeɪdʒmənt/ – The process of interacting with users through various digital technologies.

In conclusion, the topic of limiting children’s screen time is a relevant and complex issue that’s likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. When approaching this topic, it’s important to consider multiple perspectives and provide a balanced discussion. Practice writing essays on similar themes, such as:

• The impact of social media on young people’s mental health
• The role of technology in education
• The balance between online and offline activities for children

Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your points with relevant examples. Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.