Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Parental Monitoring of Children’s Online Activities

The topic of parental monitoring of children’s online activities is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exams and current trends, this subject has a high probability of appearing in future tests. It touches on important social issues like child safety, privacy, and the impact of technology on family dynamics, making it a relevant and thought-provoking topic for IELTS candidates.

One common question that has appeared in past IELTS exams related to this theme is:

Some people think that parents should monitor their children’s online activities, while others believe children should be free to use the internet without parental control. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Let’s analyze this question and provide sample essays for different band scores.

Question Analysis

This question is asking you to discuss two contrasting views on parental monitoring of children’s online activities:

1. Parents should monitor their children’s online activities
2. Children should be free to use the internet without parental control

You are required to discuss both perspectives and then provide your own opinion. This is a classic example of an opinion essay where you need to present a balanced argument before stating your personal stance.

Key points to consider:

• Reasons why parents might want to monitor online activities
• Potential benefits of giving children unrestricted internet access
• Possible risks associated with both approaches
• The role of trust and communication in parent-child relationships
• The importance of digital literacy and online safety education

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In the digital age, the question of whether parents should monitor their children’s online activities has become increasingly pertinent. While some argue for strict parental control, others advocate for unrestricted internet access for children. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.

Proponents of parental monitoring argue that it is essential for ensuring children’s safety in the digital realm. The internet, while a valuable resource, can expose children to inappropriate content, cyberbullying, and online predators. By monitoring their children’s online activities, parents can identify potential threats and intervene when necessary. Moreover, this approach allows parents to guide their children’s digital behavior, helping them develop healthy online habits and critical thinking skills.

On the other hand, those who oppose parental control contend that unrestricted internet access is crucial for children’s development in the modern world. They argue that constant monitoring can erode trust between parents and children, potentially damaging their relationship. Furthermore, unrestrained access to online resources can foster independence, creativity, and digital literacy skills that are essential in today’s technology-driven society. Advocates of this view believe that children need to learn how to navigate the online world safely on their own, as excessive parental intervention may hinder this learning process.

In my opinion, a balanced approach that combines elements of both viewpoints is most effective. While some level of parental oversight is necessary to ensure children’s safety, it should be implemented in a way that respects their privacy and fosters trust. Instead of constant monitoring, parents should focus on open communication about online safety, teaching digital literacy skills, and gradually increasing children’s online independence as they mature. This approach can help children develop the necessary skills to navigate the digital world safely while maintaining a healthy parent-child relationship.

In conclusion, the issue of parental monitoring of children’s online activities is complex and nuanced. While both strict control and complete freedom have their merits, a balanced approach that prioritizes education, communication, and trust is likely to yield the best outcomes for both children and parents in the digital age.

(Word count: 339)

Parents monitoring children's online activities

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The internet has become an important part of children’s lives, but there is debate about whether parents should monitor their online activities. Some people think parents should check what their children do online, while others believe kids should have freedom on the internet. This essay will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

There are good reasons why parents might want to monitor their children online. The internet can be dangerous, with inappropriate content and bad people trying to harm kids. By watching what their children do online, parents can protect them from these dangers. Also, monitoring can help parents teach their kids how to use the internet safely and responsibly.

However, some people argue that children should have freedom on the internet. They say that too much parental control can make children feel like their parents don’t trust them. This could damage the relationship between parents and children. Also, if kids always have their parents watching them online, they might not learn how to be independent and make good decisions on their own.

In my opinion, I think a mix of both approaches is best. Parents should have some idea of what their children are doing online, but they shouldn’t watch everything all the time. It’s important for parents to talk to their kids about internet safety and teach them how to use the internet responsibly. As children get older, parents can give them more freedom online, but still be there to help if needed.

To conclude, while there are good arguments for both monitoring and freedom, I believe a balanced approach is most effective. Parents should guide their children’s internet use while also allowing them some independence to learn and grow.

(Word count: 282)

Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)

These days, many children use the internet a lot. Some people think parents should check what their kids do online, but others say children should be free on the internet. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.

Parents who want to check their children’s online activities have some good reasons. The internet can be dangerous for kids. There are bad websites and people who want to hurt children. If parents watch what their kids do online, they can keep them safe. Also, parents can teach their children how to use the internet in a good way.

But some people think children should be free on the internet. They say if parents always check what their kids do online, the children might not trust their parents. Also, kids need to learn how to use the internet by themselves. If parents always watch them, they might not learn how to be careful online.

I think both ideas have good points. Parents should know what their children do online, but they shouldn’t check everything all the time. It’s important for parents to talk to their kids about being safe on the internet. They should teach their children how to use the internet in a good way. As children get older, parents can give them more freedom online.

In conclusion, I think parents should help their children use the internet safely, but also let them have some freedom. This way, children can learn to use the internet well and stay safe.

(Word count: 241)

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay:

This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic. It:

1. Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
2. Presents a clear position throughout the response
3. Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features
4. Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
5. Organizes information logically with clear progression throughout
6. Uses cohesion in such a way that it attracts no attention

Band 6-7 Essay:

This essay shows a competent handling of the task, although with some limitations. It:

1. Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
2. Presents a relevant position, although conclusions may become unclear or repetitive
3. Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task with some evidence of style and flexibility
4. Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
5. Arranges information coherently and there is clear overall progression
6. Uses cohesive devices effectively, but cohesion within and/or between sentences may be faulty or mechanical

Band 5-6 Essay:

This essay demonstrates a modest attempt at addressing the task. It:

1. Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
2. Expresses a position but development is not always clear
3. Uses a limited range of vocabulary, but this is minimally adequate for the task
4. Uses only a limited range of structures with only rare use of subordinate clauses
5. Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression
6. Makes inadequate, inaccurate or over-use of cohesive devices

Key Vocabulary

1. Monitor (verb) /ˈmɒnɪtə(r)/ – to watch and check something over a period of time
2. Parental control (noun phrase) /pəˈrentl kənˈtrəʊl/ – restrictions set by parents on children’s activities
3. Cyberbullying (noun) /ˈsaɪbəˌbʊliɪŋ/ – the use of electronic communication to bully a person
4. Digital literacy (noun phrase) /ˈdɪdʒɪtl ˈlɪtərəsi/ – the ability to use digital technology effectively
5. Intervention (noun) /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/ – the action of becoming involved in a situation to improve it
6. Erode (verb) /ɪˈrəʊd/ – to gradually destroy or diminish
7. Foster (verb) /ˈfɒstə(r)/ – to encourage the development of something
8. Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression

Teaching digital literacy to children

In conclusion, the topic of parental monitoring of children’s online activities is a complex and relevant issue for IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the different perspectives and practicing with sample essays, you can improve your ability to address this type of question effectively. Remember to consider both sides of the argument, use appropriate vocabulary, and structure your essay logically.

For further practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones, such as:

• The impact of social media on children’s development
• The role of schools in teaching internet safety
• Balancing screen time with other activities for children

Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you refine your writing skills and prepare more effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.