The topic of advertising’s influence on teenage consumer behavior has appeared multiple times in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in the years 2019-2023. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this theme commonly appears in both Agree/Disagree and Discussion type essays. Let’s examine a recent real test question and explore model responses across different band scores.
Question Analysis
Some people believe that advertisements targeting teenagers should be restricted or banned completely because they encourage teenagers to spend too much money on unnecessary items. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This is an Agree/Disagree essay that requires you to:
- Present your position on restricting teen-targeted advertising
- Support your argument with relevant examples
- Address the economic impact mentioned
- Discuss the relationship between advertising and teen spending habits
Teenagers shopping influenced by advertisements in modern mall
Band 8 Sample Essay (290 words)
While concerns about the negative impact of teenage-targeted advertising are understandable, I disagree that such advertisements should be banned or heavily restricted. This essay will explain why regulated advertising can actually benefit young consumers while helping them develop critical decision-making skills.
Firstly, exposure to advertising helps teenagers develop media literacy and critical thinking abilities. When young people encounter advertisements, they learn to analyze marketing messages, distinguish between wants and needs, and make informed purchasing decisions. This exposure, when combined with proper guidance from parents and educators, can help teens become more discerning consumers who understand the persuasive techniques used by advertisers.
Moreover, completely banning teen-targeted advertisements could have unintended negative consequences. Teens would likely still be exposed to general advertising but without age-appropriate considerations. Additionally, many educational and beneficial products targeting teenagers, such as learning materials or health-related items, rely on advertising to reach their intended audience.
However, reasonable regulation of advertising practices is essential. Guidelines should ensure that advertisements are truthful, do not exploit teenage insecurities, and include clear pricing information. For instance, social media influencer marketing targeting teens should clearly disclose sponsored content, allowing young consumers to make more informed decisions.
In conclusion, while oversight is necessary, banning teenage-targeted advertising entirely would be counterproductive. The focus should instead be on developing media literacy programs and implementing balanced advertising regulations that protect young consumers while allowing them to learn valuable consumer skills.
Teenagers critically analyzing social media advertisements
Band 6.5 Sample Essay (275 words)
I partly agree that advertisements targeting teenagers need some control, but I don’t think they should be completely banned. There are both good and bad effects of advertising on teenage consumers that need to be considered.
One negative effect of advertising is that it can make teenagers waste money. Many young people feel pressure to buy expensive brands or the latest gadgets because of advertisements they see. For example, in my country, many teenagers spend their pocket money on trendy clothes or new phones just because they saw them in advertisements, even though they don’t really need these items.
However, banning all advertisements for teenagers is not a good solution. Advertisements can actually help teenagers learn about new products that might be useful for them, like study materials or sports equipment. Also, seeing different advertisements helps young people learn how to make choices about what to buy and what not to buy. This is an important skill they need for their future.
I think the better solution is to have stricter rules about what kinds of advertisements can target teenagers. For instance, advertisements should not make false promises or pressure teenagers to buy things. Also, schools should teach students how to understand advertising and make smart shopping decisions.
In conclusion, while teenage-targeted advertising needs better regulation, a complete ban would not solve the problem. The focus should be on helping teenagers become smarter consumers while protecting them from harmful advertising practices.
Key Vocabulary
- media literacy (n) /ˈmiːdiə ˈlɪtərəsi/ – ability to critically evaluate media content
- discerning (adj) /dɪˈsɜːnɪŋ/ – showing good judgment
- counterproductive (adj) /ˌkaʊntəprəˈdʌktɪv/ – having the opposite effect to what is intended
- oversight (n) /ˈəʊvəsaɪt/ – supervision or watchful care
- exploit (v) /ɪkˈsplɔɪt/ – to use unfairly for one’s own advantage
Future Practice Topics
- Should social media influencers be allowed to advertise products to teenagers?
- How can schools help students develop better consumer habits?
- What role should parents play in controlling their teenagers’ spending habits?
Share your practice essays in the comments section below. Focus on developing clear arguments and using appropriate vocabulary to express your ideas effectively.
