Computer Games are Bad for Children - IELTS Writing Task 2

In the IELTS Writing Task 2, some questions ask you to discuss both views and give your opinion, testing your ability to present balanced arguments while clearly stating your personal stance. One such question is: “Some people say that computer games are bad for children, while others believe these games contribute to children’s development. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.”

This blog provides a complete guide to answering this type of essay, including three Band 9 sample answers and useful vocabulary to help you structure your ideas, express your opinion effectively, and improve your IELTS Writing Task 2 score.

Question

Learn the Best IELTS Writing Task 2 Tips for Achieving Band 9 and check out the IELTS essay for “Academic Study vs. Vocational Training” below.

Outline

1. Introduction

• Paraphrase the question
• Mention both views briefly
• State your own opinion clearly

2. Body Paragraph 1 – Negative View

• Explain why some people think computer games are bad: addiction, violent content, affecting studies or social life
• Give examples

3. Body Paragraph 2 – Positive View

• Explain why some people think computer games are helpful: improve cognitive skills, hand-eye coordination, strategy skills, problem-solving
• Give examples

4. Body Paragraph 3 – Personal Opinion

• Clearly state your opinion
• Explain why benefits outweigh drawbacks (or vice versa)
• Suggest moderation if necessary

5. Conclusion

• Summarize both views briefly
• Restate your opinion clearly
• Highlight importance of balanced use of computer games

Computer Games are Bad for Children - Sample Answer 1

Children nowadays spend several hours playing video games; since the last few years these games have become increasingly popular. While some experts think that these games corrupt the brain, some others also feel that computer games may actually teach kids high-level thinking skills for their future. This essay shall consider both perspectives and end at a personal approach.

Parents usually complain of their child being addicted to video games, like playing for 2 hours at a stretch, but practically but the time issue is a red herring. This is a normal time for a child to play – video game or otherwise. Another issue is of these games being too violent. Although there’s no concrete research linking violent games to violence in real life, common sense says we should limit a child’s exposure as such games glamorize violence and are not realistic. Playing video games can be considered to be an addiction or detrimental if it disrupts or compromises other important things in children’s life, for instance if they can’t concentrate on their homework because of gaming or have no friendships.

When a child plays video games, it gives his brain a real workout.  In many video games, the skills required to win involve abstract and high level thinking. In shooting games, the character may be running and shooting at the same time, which develops hand-eye coordination, fine motor and spatial skills. In strategy games, for example, while developing a city, an unexpected surprise like an enemy attack might emerge.  This forces the player to be flexible and quickly change tactics enabling quick thinking and making fast analysis. Because of all these factors, video games are deemed to be more constructive than harming.

In closing, I’d say computer games are contributing to children’s development, though in an unconventional sort of way. We cannot deny that we are now living in a high-tech, sophisticated world so an all-out negative attitude towards computer gaming is not reasonable. Level-headedness in such matters can help curb the damaging effects.

Computer Games are Bad for Children - Sample Answer 2

Children today spend a lot of time playing computer games. Some people think these games are harmful, while others believe they can help children develop skills. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.

Many parents worry that children are spending too much time on games, which can lead to addiction. Some games are violent, and watching such content may give children the wrong idea about real-life behaviour. In addition, spending too much time playing games can affect studies and reduce social interactions with friends and family.

On the other hand, computer games can be useful for developing certain skills. Strategy and puzzle games encourage problem-solving and planning. Action games can improve hand-eye coordination and quick decision-making. Playing these games in moderation can support children’s cognitive development and creativity.

In my opinion, computer games are not harmful if used wisely. The benefits of learning skills and improving mental abilities outweigh the disadvantages, as long as children balance gaming with other activities.

Computer Games are Bad for Children - Sample Answer 3

In modern times, computer games are very popular among children. Some people believe that these games are bad for children, while others argue that they help children grow. This essay will discuss both sides and give my own view.

People who see games as harmful argue that children may become addicted and spend too much time sitting in front of screens. Violent games may encourage aggressive behaviour, and excessive gaming can affect schoolwork and reduce outdoor activities.

However, computer games also have positive effects. Many games require strategy, planning, and fast thinking. They can improve concentration, hand-eye coordination, and decision-making skills. Educational games also teach children new knowledge and problem-solving techniques in an interactive way.

I believe that computer games can be beneficial if children play them in moderation. Parents should guide their children to balance gaming with studying and outdoor activities to avoid negative effects.

Computer Games are Bad for Children - IELTS Vocabulary

The following are some of the IELTS Vocabulary found in the "Computer Games are Bad for Children - IELTS Writing Task 2."

• Addicted – unable to stop doing something
  Example: Some children are addicted to playing video games.

• Detrimental – harmful or bad for someone
  Example: Too much gaming can be detrimental to a child’s health.

• Cognitive skills – brain skills like thinking and problem-solving
  Example: Puzzle games can improve children’s cognitive skills.

• Hand-eye coordination – the ability to use your eyes and hands together well
  Example: Action games can improve hand-eye coordination.

• Strategy – a plan to achieve something
  Example: Strategy games help children develop planning skills.

• Moderation – doing something in a balanced way, not too much
  Example: Playing video games in moderation is fine.

• Violent – involving physical force intended to hurt
  Example: Violent games can give children the wrong idea about real life.

• Problem-solving – finding solutions to problems
  Example: Many video games improve problem-solving skills.

• Creativity – the ability to think of new ideas
  Example: Building games can boost children’s creativity.

• Interactive – involving active participation
  Example: Educational games are interactive and fun for children.