As an IELTS Writing Task 2 expert, I’ve noticed that topics related to social media and its effects on teenagers’ mental health have become increasingly prevalent in recent exams. This trend is likely to continue, given the growing concern about this issue worldwide. Let’s explore some sample questions and essays to help you prepare for this important topic.

Social media impact on teenage mental health

Analyzing the Question

Let’s focus on this question, which closely resembles those seen in recent IELTS exams:

Some people believe that social media has a negative impact on teenagers’ mental health, while others think it can be beneficial. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question requires you to:

1. Discuss the negative impacts of social media on teenage mental health
2. Explore the potential benefits of social media for teenagers
3. Provide your personal opinion on the matter

Now, let’s look at three sample essays of varying quality to understand how to approach this topic effectively.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In today’s digital age, The Impact Of Social Media On Teenage Mental Health has become a topic of heated debate. While some argue that these platforms pose significant risks to young people’s well-being, others maintain that they offer valuable benefits. In my opinion, while social media does present certain dangers, its positive potential can be harnessed with proper guidance and moderation.

Those who view social media negatively often cite its contribution to anxiety and depression among teenagers. The constant exposure to carefully curated images of peers’ lives can foster feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. Moreover, cyberbullying, which has become increasingly prevalent on these platforms, can have devastating effects on young people’s mental health. The addictive nature of social media can also lead to sleep deprivation and reduced face-to-face interactions, further exacerbating mental health issues.

On the other hand, proponents of social media argue that it offers numerous benefits for teenage mental well-being. These platforms can provide a sense of community and belonging, particularly for marginalized youth who may struggle to find acceptance in their immediate surroundings. Social media also facilitates access to mental health resources and support networks, enabling teenagers to seek help more easily. Furthermore, it can serve as a creative outlet and a means of self-expression, contributing positively to self-esteem and identity formation.

In my view, the impact of social media on teenage mental health is largely dependent on how it is used. While the risks are undeniable, I believe that with proper education about digital literacy and responsible usage, teenagers can reap the benefits of social media while minimizing its negative effects. Parents, educators, and platform developers all have a role to play in creating a safer and more positive online environment for young people.

In conclusion, social media is a double-edged sword when it comes to teenage mental health. By acknowledging both its potential dangers and benefits, we can work towards harnessing its positive aspects while mitigating its risks. Ultimately, a balanced approach that combines awareness, education, and moderation is key to ensuring that social media contributes positively to the mental well-being of our youth.

(Word count: 345)

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both negative and positive views and providing a clear personal opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. Ideas flow logically, and cohesive devices are used effectively (e.g., “On the other hand,” “Moreover,” “Furthermore”).

3. Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “curated,” “exacerbating,” “marginalized”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly (e.g., complex sentences, passive voice).

5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Nowadays, social media has become a big part of teenagers’ lives. Some people think it’s bad for their mental health, but others believe it can be good. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

There are several reasons why social media might be harmful to teenagers’ mental health. First, it can make them feel bad about themselves when they see their friends posting perfect pictures of their lives. This can lead to low self-esteem and even depression. Also, cyberbullying is a big problem on social media, which can really hurt teenagers emotionally. Lastly, spending too much time on social media can be addictive and take time away from other important activities.

However, social media can also have some benefits for teenagers. It helps them stay connected with friends and family, which is important for their social life. Social media can also be a place where teenagers find support and information about mental health issues. Some teenagers use social media to express themselves creatively, which can be good for their self-esteem.

In my opinion, social media can be both good and bad for teenage mental health. It depends on how it is used. If teenagers use it in moderation and are aware of its potential dangers, it can be a positive tool. But if they spend too much time on it or are negatively affected by what they see, it can be harmful.

To conclude, social media has both positive and negative effects on teenage mental health. It’s important for parents and schools to teach teenagers how to use social media responsibly. This way, they can enjoy its benefits while avoiding its risks.

(Word count: 276)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates competence but falls short of excellence in several areas:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the ideas are less fully developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated (e.g., frequent use of “also” and “however”).

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences but with less flexibility and range than the Band 8-9 essay.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant but less fully extended and supported compared to the higher band essay.

Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)

Social media is very popular with teenagers today. Some people think it’s bad for their mental health, but others think it’s good. I will talk about both sides.

Social media can be bad for teenagers’ mental health. It can make them feel sad when they see their friends having fun without them. Also, some people are mean on social media, which can hurt teenagers’ feelings. Teenagers might spend too much time on social media and not do other important things.

But social media can also be good for teenagers. They can talk to their friends easily. They can find information about things they like. Some teenagers feel happy when they share their photos and get likes.

I think social media can be good and bad. It depends on how teenagers use it. If they use it too much, it can be bad. But if they use it carefully, it can be good.

In conclusion, social media has good and bad points for teenage mental health. Teenagers should be careful when they use social media.

(Word count: 157)

Analysis of Band 5-6 Essay

This essay demonstrates limited competence:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses the task but in a simplistic way with minimal development of ideas.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: There is a basic structure, but paragraphing and use of cohesive devices are limited.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is limited and repetitive, with frequent use of simple words.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay primarily uses simple sentences and basic grammatical structures.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are present but lack depth and supporting details.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Mental health (noun) /ˌmen.təl ˈhelθ/ – a person’s condition with regard to their psychological and emotional well-being
2. Well-being (noun) /ˌwel ˈbiːɪŋ/ – the state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy
3. Self-esteem (noun) /ˌself.ɪˈstiːm/ – confidence in one’s own worth or abilities
4. Cyberbullying (noun) /ˈsaɪ.bəˌbʊl.i.ɪŋ/ – the use of electronic communication to bully a person
5. Addictive (adjective) /əˈdɪk.tɪv/ – causing a strong and harmful need to regularly have or do something
6. Marginalized (adjective) /ˈmɑː.dʒɪ.nəl.aɪzd/ – treated as insignificant or peripheral
7. Digital literacy (noun) /ˌdɪdʒ.ɪ.təl ˈlɪt.ər.ə.si/ – the ability to use information and communication technologies
8. Curated (adjective) /kjʊˈreɪ.tɪd/ – carefully chosen and presented
9. Exacerbate (verb) /ɪɡˈzæs.ər.beɪt/ – make (a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling) worse
10. Moderation (noun) /ˌmɒd.ərˈeɪ.ʃən/ – the avoidance of excess or extremes, especially in one’s behavior or political opinions

Conclusion

The impact of social media on teenage mental health is a complex and multifaceted topic that is likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays that explore both the positive and negative aspects of social media, while also developing your own nuanced opinion on the matter.

Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your points with relevant examples. By doing so, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle this topic and achieve a high band score in your IELTS Writing Task 2.

For additional practice, consider writing an essay on one of these related topics:

1. Should governments regulate teenagers’ use of social media?
2. How can schools educate students about responsible social media use?
3. Is social media addiction a significant problem for modern society?

Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below. This active engagement will help you refine your writing skills and prepare more effectively for the IELTS exam.