Child advertising regulations have become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing multiple times in recent years, particularly in countries like India, China, and Vietnam where concerns about marketing to minors are growing. Let’s examine some real test questions and explore high-scoring sample responses.
Should advertising targeted at children be banned? is a frequently debated topic that tests candidates’ ability to analyze complex social issues while demonstrating sophisticated language use.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Essay on Child Advertising Regulations
Analysis of Common Task 2 Question
Some people think that governments should impose stricter regulations on advertisements aimed at young children. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question requires you to:
- Take a clear position on government regulation of child-targeted advertising
- Support your viewpoint with relevant examples and reasoning
- Consider potential counterarguments
- Provide a balanced discussion while maintaining your stance
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
Children today are increasingly exposed to sophisticated marketing tactics, and I strongly agree that governments should implement tighter controls on advertisements targeting young audiences. This essay will examine why such regulations are essential and how they can be effectively implemented.
Stricter regulation of child-focused advertising is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, young children lack the cognitive ability to distinguish between entertainment and commercial content, making them particularly vulnerable to manipulative marketing strategies. For example, when cartoon characters promote sugary cereals or toys, children often cannot recognize the persuasive intent behind these advertisements. Additionally, excessive exposure to commercials can lead to materialistic attitudes and poor consumption habits that may persist into adulthood.
Should governments impose stricter regulations on online advertising becomes especially relevant when considering digital platforms where children spend increasing amounts of time. Government intervention could include measures such as limiting advertising during children’s programming, requiring clear labeling of sponsored content, and restricting the use of animated characters in commercial messages. Countries like Sweden have successfully implemented such regulations, demonstrating that effective control is possible without hampering business interests.
Critics might argue that advertising restrictions could hurt businesses and limit consumer choice. However, the primary duty of governments is to protect vulnerable citizens, particularly children. Moreover, companies can still advertise their products to parents, who are better equipped to make informed purchasing decisions for their families.
In conclusion, while balancing commercial interests with child protection presents challenges, the benefits of stricter advertising regulations far outweigh potential drawbacks. Governments must take decisive action to shield young minds from excessive commercial influence.
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
Similar to concerns about should fast food advertisements be banned to prevent obesity, I believe that stricter rules for children’s advertising are necessary. There are several reasons why governments should control these advertisements more carefully.
Firstly, children are easily influenced by advertisements. They cannot understand that advertisements are trying to sell things and often believe everything they see. For example, when they watch TV commercials showing toys that look very exciting, they might think these toys will make them happy, even if they’re not actually very good.
Secondly, too many advertisements can make children want to buy too many things. This puts pressure on parents and can cause family arguments. Also, some advertisements promote unhealthy foods or expensive toys, which isn’t good for children’s health or family budgets.
However, some people think strict rules might be bad for business. Companies need to sell their products, and advertising helps them do this. But I think children’s well-being is more important than company profits.
To conclude, I strongly support stricter regulations on children’s advertising because protecting children is very important. Governments should make sure advertisements don’t take advantage of children’s innocent minds.
Key Vocabulary for IELTS Essays on Advertising
- manipulative (adj) /məˈnɪpjʊlətɪv/ – controlling or influencing cleverly or unscrupulously
- cognitive ability (n) /ˈkɒɡnətɪv əˈbɪləti/ – mental capacity for understanding
- intervention (n) /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/ – action taken to improve a situation
- vulnerable (adj) /ˈvʌlnərəbl/ – easily harmed or influenced
- materialistic (adj) /məˌtɪriəˈlɪstɪk/ – excessively concerned with material possessions
- regulatory (adj) /ˈreɡjʊleɪtəri/ – controlling or supervising through rules
- commercial influence (n) /kəˈmɜːʃl ˈɪnflʊəns/ – impact of advertising and marketing
- persuasive intent (n) /pəˈsweɪsɪv ɪnˈtent/ – purpose of convincing someone
In conclusion, this topic remains highly relevant for IELTS candidates. Practice writing your own response and share it in the comments for feedback. Consider exploring related topics like should there be a ban on alcohol ads to broaden your preparation.
