Social media’s influence on teenagers’ mental health has become a prominent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This theme has appeared frequently in recent years and is likely to remain relevant in future tests due to its global significance. Based on our analysis of past IELTS exams, we’ve identified a highly probable question format:

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.

Analyzing the Question

This question requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the negative impacts of social media on teenagers’ mental health
2. Explore the potential benefits of social media for teenagers’ mental well-being
3. Provide a balanced argument considering both perspectives
4. Present and justify their own opinion on the matter

Sample Essays

Band 8-9 Essay

In today’s digital age, the impact of social media on adolescents’ mental health has become a topic of heated debate. While some argue that these platforms pose significant risks to teenagers’ psychological well-being, others contend that they offer valuable benefits. In my opinion, while social media can indeed have detrimental effects, its potential advantages cannot be overlooked, and the key lies in fostering responsible usage.

Undoubtedly, social media can negatively affect teenagers’ mental health in several ways. Firstly, excessive use of these platforms can lead to addiction, resulting in reduced face-to-face interactions and potentially stunting social skill development. Moreover, the constant exposure to carefully curated, idealized versions of peers’ lives can trigger feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and even depression among vulnerable teens. Additionally, cyberbullying, which has become increasingly prevalent on social media, can have severe psychological consequences, including anxiety and, in extreme cases, suicidal thoughts.

On the other hand, social media can also offer significant benefits to teenagers’ mental well-being. These platforms provide a sense of community and connection, allowing teens to find like-minded individuals and support networks that may not be available in their immediate surroundings. Furthermore, social media can serve as a valuable tool for self-expression and creativity, empowering teenagers to share their thoughts, artwork, or other talents with a wider audience. It can also be an excellent source of information and awareness about mental health issues, potentially encouraging teens to seek help when needed.

In my view, the impact of social media on teenagers’ mental health largely depends on how it is used. While the risks are real and should not be ignored, I believe that with proper guidance, education, and moderation, the benefits of social media can outweigh its drawbacks. Parents, educators, and society as a whole have a responsibility to teach teenagers how to use these platforms responsibly, critically evaluate the content they consume, and maintain a healthy balance between online and offline activities.

In conclusion, social media is a double-edged sword when it comes to teenage mental health. By acknowledging both its potential risks and benefits, we can work towards creating a digital environment that supports rather than hinders adolescents’ psychological well-being. Ultimately, the goal should be to empower teenagers to harness the positive aspects of social media while minimizing its negative impacts.

(Word count: 398)

Social media impact on teen mental health

Band 6-7 Essay

The influence of social media on teenagers’ mental health is a topic that many people are concerned about these days. Some think it’s bad for teens, while others see good things about it. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

There are several reasons why social media might be harmful to teenagers’ mental health. First, teens can spend too much time on these platforms, which can lead to addiction and less time for real-life activities and relationships. Also, seeing perfect-looking lives of others on social media can make teens feel bad about themselves and lower their self-esteem. Cyberbullying is another big problem that can happen on social media and can really hurt teens emotionally.

However, social media can also have positive effects on teenagers’ mental health. It helps them stay connected with friends and family, which is important for their well-being. Social media can also be a place where teens find support groups or communities that share their interests. This can make them feel less alone. Additionally, many mental health awareness campaigns use social media to reach young people and provide information about getting help.

In my opinion, social media can be both good and bad for teenagers’ mental health. It depends on how it’s used. I think it’s important for parents and schools to teach teens how to use social media responsibly. This includes setting limits on screen time, being aware of privacy issues, and knowing how to deal with negative experiences online. If used wisely, social media can be a helpful tool for teens to express themselves and find support.

To conclude, while social media does pose some risks to teenagers’ mental health, it also offers benefits. The key is to find a balance and use these platforms in a healthy way. With proper guidance and education, teenagers can learn to enjoy the positive aspects of social media while avoiding its potential dangers.

(Word count: 329)

Band 5-6 Essay

Social media is very popular among teenagers today. Some people think it is bad for their mental health, but others say it can be good. I will talk about both sides and give my idea.

Social media can be bad for teenagers in some ways. Many teens spend too much time on their phones looking at social media. This can make them feel sad or lonely. They might see their friends having fun without them and feel left out. Some people also use social media to be mean to others, which can hurt teens’ feelings a lot.

But social media can also be good for teenagers. It helps them talk to their friends easily and make new friends too. Teens can learn new things on social media, like how to do hobbies or get help with school work. Some teens feel shy in real life, but on social media they can express themselves better.

I think social media can be both good and bad for teenagers. It depends on how they use it. If teens use social media too much or in a bad way, it can hurt their mental health. But if they use it carefully and not too often, it can be helpful and fun.

In conclusion, social media has both good and bad effects on teenagers’ mental health. I believe it’s important for teens to learn how to use social media in a good way. Parents and teachers should help teens understand how to stay safe and happy while using social media.

(Word count: 249)

Essay Analysis

Band 8-9 Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates excellent command of the English language and addresses all parts of the task effectively:

1. Task Achievement (Band 8-9): The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed response with relevant, extended, and supported ideas.

2. Coherence and Cohesion (Band 8-9): Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and a range of cohesive devices is used appropriately.

3. Lexical Resource (Band 8-9): A wide range of vocabulary is used with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy (Band 8-9): A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and accuracy. The essay is virtually error-free.

Key strengths:

• Balanced discussion of both viewpoints
• Clear personal opinion with justification
• Sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures
• Effective use of topic sentences and paragraph development

IELTS Writing Task 2 scoring criteria

Band 6-7 Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates a good command of English and addresses the task adequately:

1. Task Achievement (Band 6-7): The essay addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others. The format is appropriate, and the writer’s position is clear.

2. Coherence and Cohesion (Band 6-7): Information and ideas are arranged coherently, and there is a clear overall progression. Cohesive devices are used effectively, though not always with full flexibility.

3. Lexical Resource (Band 6-7): A sufficient range of vocabulary is used to allow some flexibility and precision. There are occasional errors in word choice but they do not impede communication.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy (Band 6-7): A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used. There are some errors, but they rarely reduce communication.

Key strengths:

• Clear structure with introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion
• Addresses both viewpoints and gives a personal opinion
• Uses some less common vocabulary appropriately
• Generally good control of grammar and punctuation

Areas for improvement:

• Further development of ideas with more specific examples
• More sophisticated use of cohesive devices
• Greater range of complex sentence structures

Band 5-6 Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates a modest command of English and addresses the task in a basic way:

1. Task Achievement (Band 5-6): The essay addresses the task in a general way. The format is appropriate, but the writer’s position is not always clear.

2. Coherence and Cohesion (Band 5-6): The essay is generally coherent and there is some organization of ideas. Basic cohesive devices are used, but coherence may be affected by overuse or inaccurate use.

3. Lexical Resource (Band 5-6): A limited range of vocabulary is used, with some attempt at using less common vocabulary. There are noticeable errors in word choice and formation, but meaning is generally clear.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy (Band 5-6): A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is attempted. Errors are frequent, but meaning is generally clear.

Key strengths:

• Addresses both viewpoints and attempts to give a personal opinion
• Uses basic paragraph structure
• Some attempt at using less common vocabulary

Areas for improvement:

• Further development of ideas with specific examples
• More sophisticated vocabulary and sentence structures
• Better use of cohesive devices to improve overall coherence
• Clearer expression of personal opinion with more justification

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Adolescents (noun) /ˌædəˈlesənts/ – young people who are developing into adults
2. Psychological well-being (noun phrase) /ˌsaɪkəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ˈwel biːɪŋ/ – mental and emotional health
3. Detrimental (adjective) /ˌdetrɪˈmentl/ – causing harm or damage
4. Cyberbullying (noun) /ˈsaɪbəˌbʊliɪŋ/ – the use of electronic communication to bully someone
5. Self-esteem (noun) /ˌself ɪˈstiːm/ – confidence in one’s own worth or abilities
6. Moderation (noun) /ˌmɒdəˈreɪʃn/ – the avoidance of excess or extremes
7. Double-edged sword (idiom) /ˌdʌbl edʒd ˈsɔːd/ – something that has both positive and negative effects
8. Empowerment (noun) /ɪmˈpaʊəmənt/ – the process of becoming stronger and more confident
9. Vulnerable (adjective) /ˈvʌlnərəbl/ – exposed to the possibility of being harmed
10. Awareness (noun) /əˈweənəs/ – knowledge or perception of a situation or fact

In conclusion, the impact of social media on teenagers’ mental health is a complex and nuanced topic that is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for this and similar topics, practice writing essays that discuss both positive and negative aspects, use specific examples, and clearly express your own opinion. Remember to use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures, and pay attention to coherence and cohesion in your writing.

For additional practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or a related one, such as:

• The effects of social media on education
• The role of social media in shaping public opinion
• The impact of technology on interpersonal relationships

Share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with other learners. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.