IELTS Writing Task 2: New Technologies have Changed the Way Children Spend their Free Time
IELTS Writing Prediction Questions for 2024
Achieving proficiency in the Essay Writing section of the IELTS Writing module for questions, ‘IELTS Writing Task 2: New Technologies have Changed the Way Children Spend their Free Time’ poses a difficulty for numerous test-takers. Hence, it is essential to enhance your essay writing abilities before undertaking the IELTS to ensure success.
The IELTS Writing Task 2 is a crucial part of both the General Training and Academic versions of the IELTS exam. It assesses your ability to write a well-structured and cohesive essay in response to a given topic.
In this task, you will be presented with an Opinion Essay prompt, where you are presented with a statement or opinion, and you are asked to either agree or disagree with it.
To effectively prepare for the IELTS Writing Task 2, it is highly recommended to practice with a variety of sample essays. IELTSMaterial.com offers a comprehensive collection of IELTS writing task 2 practice tests, that can help you hone your essay writing skills and achieve a high score in the exam.
Question
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.New technologies have changed the way children spend their free time. Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
You should write at least 250 words.
Structure Breakdown
Essay
Introduction
Body paragraph 1
Body paragraph 2
Conclusion
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Band 7 Sample Answer for IELTS Writing Task 2: New technologies have changed the way children spend their free time
Currently, it is true that the way children spend their leisure time has been changed by new technology. While this has several benefits, In my opinion, the the drawbacks far outweigh them.
To begin with, computer games tend to be enjoyable for many kids and can potentially enhance their cognitive abilities. Strategic video games, for instance, compel players to hone their problem-solving aptitude and adapt to unforeseen circumstances. As a result, children who regularly play such games are likely to sharpen their logical reasoning and problem-solving prowess. Furthermore, the vast trove of easily accessible information online can benefit young people through early internet exposure. When children are able to surf the web from a young age, they can embark on the learning process sooner and accelerate their knowledge acquisition as they mature.
However, I would argue that the advantages discussed above are outweighed by the disadvantages. One main drawback is that children who enjoy spending time in front of the computer screen are often reluctant to do exercise. Low physical activity levels are likely to result in children becoming overweight, and in turn, they would end up being obese. In addition, some games tempt people to continue playing for hours, which could lead to gaming addiction. In role-playing games, for instance, people might need to stay in front of the computer for several hours in order to progress to higher levels, and therefore children may spend an excessive amount of time on games.
In conclusion, while there are some advantages to children spending time on advanced technologies, it seems to me that the disadvantages are more significant. Technology has been triumphant over sundry verticals nowadays which has modified the leisure time spent by the children around. (285 words)
Band 7 Vocabulary
- Cognitive:
Meaning: Related to mental processes such as thinking, learning, and remembering.
Example: Engaging in chess or other strategic board games can enhance children’s cognitive development by stimulating critical thinking.
- Strategic:
Meaning: Involving a plan or strategy to achieve a specific goal.
Example: Playing strategic sports, like chess or soccer, encourages children to think strategically and make quick decisions on the field.
- Reluctant:
Meaning: Unwilling or hesitant to do something.
Example: Children who prefer indoor activities may be reluctant to participate in outdoor adventures like hiking or camping.
- Obese:
Meaning: Extremely overweight, often to the point of negatively affecting health.
Example: Unhealthy eating habits, combined with a lack of physical activity, can lead to children becoming obese over time.
- Addiction:
Meaning: A compulsive and harmful dependence on a substance or activity.
Example: Excessive engagement in social media can lead to addiction, where individuals find it challenging to disconnect from online platforms.
- Excessive:
Meaning: Going beyond what is necessary or normal.
Example: Spending an excessive amount of time on video games may result in children neglecting other important aspects of their lives.
- Triumphant:
Meaning: Having achieved victory or success.
Example: The local soccer team was triumphant in the championship, celebrating their hard-earned victory.
- Sundry:
Meaning: Various or diverse.
Example: Outdoor activities offer sundry options for children, from hiking and biking to exploring nature and playing team sports.
Band 8 Sample Answer for IELTS Writing Task 2: New technologies have changed the way children spend their free time
In today’s digital era, children’s leisure activities have undergone a profound transformation due to the pervasive influence of innovative technologies. While concerns about potential drawbacks are valid, I contend that the benefits derived from these technological advancements far outweigh any associated disadvantages for today’s youth.
The ubiquity of screens and digital interfaces has redefined how the younger generation engages with their free time, marking a paradigm shift in childhood experiences. Despite concerns about adverse effects, particularly excessive screen time, a judicious approach to technological integration, coupled with parental guidance, can effectively navigate these challenges. Concerns include potential hazards to physical and mental well-being, with research linking extended screen usage to decreased physical activity and an increased risk of obesity among children. Overexposure to digital interfaces is associated with potential setbacks in cognitive development, academic performance, and social skills. However, responsible technological use can mitigate these risks.
On the positive side, technology significantly benefits child development and learning. Educational applications and interactive games offer captivating alternatives to traditional learning methods, making subjects like math, science, and language more engaging. Video games, when approached responsibly, facilitate the development of problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and hand-eye coordination. Social media platforms and messaging applications serve as invaluable tools for maintaining connections in an interconnected world.
In conclusion, while adopting technology in children’s leisure activities raises concerns, the transformative potential for development and education cannot be overlooked. By carefully navigating risks through parental guidance and responsible usage, we can harness the myriad benefits that technology brings to the lives of today’s tech-savvy youth. (258 words).
Band 8 Vocabulary
- Profound:
Meaning: Having deep significance or impact.
Example: The digital revolution has had a profound effect on how children experience leisure.
- Pervasive:
Meaning: Spread widely and consistently throughout an area or group.
Example: Technology has become pervasive, influencing every aspect of children’s daily lives.
- Ubiquity:
Meaning: The state of being present, appearing, or found everywhere.
Example: The ubiquity of smartphones highlights their integral role in contemporary society.
- Paradigm Shift:
Meaning: A fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions.
Example: The advent of digital technology represents a paradigm shift in how children engage with entertainment.
- Judicious:
Meaning: Showing wisdom and good judgment in decision-making.
Example: A judicious approach to screen time involves balancing technology use with other activities.
- Adverse:
Meaning: Harmful or unfavorable.
Example: Excessive screen time can have adverse effects on a child’s physical and mental well-being.
- Mitigate:
Meaning: To lessen the severity or impact of something.
Example: Parental guidance can help mitigate the potential risks associated with technology use.
- Interactive:
Meaning: Involving communication or action between people or things.
Example: Educational apps provide an interactive learning experience for children.
- Captivating:
Meaning: Attracting and holding the interest or attention.
Example: Video games with captivating storylines can engage children in constructive ways.
- Invaluable:
Meaning: Extremely useful or indispensable.
Example: Social media has become an invaluable tool for staying connected with friends and family.
Band 9 Sample Answer for IELTS Writing Task 2: New technologies have changed the way children spend their free time
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Technology has been triumphant over sundry verticals nowadays which has modified the leisure time spent by the children around. Although that comes along with the pace digitization has been moving ahead with and could prove advantageous in the same regard, however, it has its major share of drawbacks that supersedes its advantages in the long marathon. In the forthcoming paragraphs, this essay will analyze both sides.
There are a few pros to children putting their hours of free time in learning the advancement of the technologies and the modus operandi of the same as that keeps them moving and aligning with the dynamic world, especially, during current times. It enhances their digital knowledge that somehow has become the need of the hour in every walks of life. Using technology not only improves children’s technical skills, but also keeps them engaged and focused, enhancing their expertise in this area. For example, learning coding, programming, and web development expands their knowledge and prepares them for future job opportunities.
However, there are also significant downsides to children’s technology use. Exposure at a young age can be harmful to children’s development and thinking. Teens are more vulnerable to cybercrimes and phishing. Inappropriate content and sites can also do more harm than good. Heavy technology use has health risks. Violent graphics in games are another major concern. Certain dangerous games like “Bluewhale” have been banned after being linked to youth suicide. Overall, while technology has benefits, uncontrolled use at a young age poses risks of crime, inappropriate content, and physical and mental health issues.
All in all, it could be concluded that although technical expansion is a requirement right now, the pitfalls of children spending their free time on the same often overtakes its advantages and is riskier in the long run. (297 words)
Band 9 Vocabulary
- Triumphant:
Meaning: Having achieved victory or success.
Example: The team was triumphant in the championship, celebrating their hard-fought victory.
- Sundry:
Meaning: Various or diverse.
Example: The museum displayed a sundry collection of artifacts from different cultures and time periods.
- Digitization:
Meaning: The process of converting information into digital format.
Example: The rapid digitization of historical documents has made them more accessible to researchers.
- Advantageous:
Meaning: Beneficial or favorable.
Example: Regular exercise is advantageous for maintaining good health and overall well-being.
- Modus Operandi:
Meaning: A particular way of doing something; method or procedure.
Example: Detectives carefully analyzed the criminal’s modus operandi to solve the mysterious case.
- Drawbacks:
Meaning: Disadvantages or negative aspects.
Example: Despite the benefits of remote work, there are drawbacks, such as potential feelings of isolation.
- Pros:
Meaning: Advantages or positive aspects.
Example: Pursuing a higher education degree has numerous pros, including expanded career opportunities.
- Discernment:
Meaning: The ability to judge or understand things clearly.
Example: Developing discernment is crucial when evaluating the reliability of information in the age of misinformation.
Acumen:
Meaning: Skill or expertise in a particular area.
Example: A successful entrepreneur often possesses financial acumen, enabling them to make wise business decisions.
- Proliferation:
Meaning: Rapid and widespread growth.
Example: The proliferation of social media platforms has changed the way people communicate and share information.
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Connectors Used in the Above Sample Answers of IELTS Writing Task 2: New technologies have changed the way children spend their free time
Connectors, also known as connectives or transition words, are words or phrases that link ideas or parts of a sentence or paragraph together. Here are some of the connectors used in the above sample answers:
- While
- Due to
- Despite
- However
- Furthermore
- In addition
- On the flip side
- On the positive side
- All in all
- Although
- Overall
- Moreover
More Writing Task 2 Topics:
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Kasturika Samanta
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6 Comments
Nouran
Posted on Nov 8, 2021
Throughout the last decade, the digital age has arise with every child spending most of their time watching videos or playing games. I believe, advanced technologies has a detrimental impact on children’s quality of time spent.
First of all, no one can deny the beneficial effects of technology and its progression over time and how it facilitated many processes. For instance, it enabled the children to receive additional online courses in times as the pandemic. Secondly, novel technology now provides evolution of some games that work on the IQ and mind-developing skills for children.
On the contrary, nowadays families hardly have the opportunity to spend time with their offspring because of the endless series of games which highlights a lack of family time ritual. Adding to this, studies has shown that in the last decade autism and other psychological issues cases have sharply increased with regard to the excessive use of technology rather than spending time with real people. Also, spending more time indoors will be likely to increase obesity rate amongst children due to the sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity.
In conclusion, modern technologies has benefits to some extent but many disadvantages. Children do not become enthusiastic with to spend time with their parents at the playground as they would be to receive a new iPad, for instance.
Reply
Gina Saavedra Mancipe
Posted on Oct 25, 2021
The whole world has been changing through the years as a consequence of multiples factors. Clearly, one of them is technology. Everyone is affected by this, especially children, who have found a new way to spent their free time. I agree with the fact that there are more disadvantages than advantages to this statement.
Studies have revealed that the young population is more vulnerable nowadays. They prefer to be at home playing online games or using social media on their phone instead of going out and meet their friends. So, the physical and mental conditions are affected. As a kid, it is essential to make a face to face friendships to develop social skills. In time, it helps them to build strong bases in their identity. Also, mental health can be more balanced and stable. Additionally, practising outdoor sports such a football or basketball improve physical condition, growing healthy youth. Severe sickness can be prevented, such as diabetes or obesity, by instilling training habits at early ages.
On the other hand, there are also several advantages. When parents know what kind of technology or content by the meticulous selection, technology can improve cognitive development. There are plenty of video games that require particular strategies to reach goals. The brain is stimulated through diversion, and the kids do not realize it. They can learn other languages, interact with other children on the other side of the world, mathematics or abstract reasoning. As a consequence, other diverse skills are introduced to their lives.
In conclusion, excessing the use of technology brings more disadvantages than advantages. Kids with excellent physical and mental health are more important than sick and antisocial but strategic creatures.
Reply
Janice Thompson
Posted on Oct 25, 2021
Overall band: 5.0
Grammar: Concentrate on tenses. You have used “spent” in place of “spend”.
Collocations: “growing healthy youth” is wrong usage.
Lexical Resource: The word “technology” has been used many times.
Maimuna Zaman
Posted on Aug 21, 2021
The development of new technologies has drastically changed the way children spend their free time. This fact has both advantages and disadvantages and in this essay, I will discuss both. In my opinion, I firmly believe the disadvantages outweigh the advantages and that is because the emergence of these new technologies have had bad effects on children’s health and turned them into lazy sloth bears.
To begin with, the arrival of this modern machinery has been beneficial for the little ones. Machines like computers, laptops, tablets, i-phones provide an open window for these little ones to grasp more knowledge and broaden their horizons. In their free time they can read articles, books apart from their academic guides on computers, laptops and learn about geography, astronomy and other things. With the advancement of science, they can socialise with kids from other countries and learn their cultures and languages.
On the contrary, the development of this modern automation had an immense amount of bad effects on kids’ lives. For instance, in their spare hours, they stay indoors playing video games instead of going out and participating in outdoor activities. As a result, young ones are falling prey to obesity and laziness at a very young age. According to some recent reports and studies in the US heart problems, obesity and other ailments have become common in teenagers now. To put it more simply, in the past teenagers used to be more active and their life expectancy rates used to be higher as they used to spend their spare hours playing outdoor games like football, cricket and many different sports.
To conclude, like the two sides of a coin there are both benefits and downfalls to the emergence of modern automation. As mentioned earlier in the essay, I hold the view that the disadvantages of this contemporary machinery outweigh the advantages as they have awful effects on children’s well-being.
Reply
Adithya Sridhar
Posted on Aug 18, 2021
Yes, I agree to the fact that the spare time of children are easily influenced by the modern technological advancements. However, these evolving technologies help them stay updated to the digital world, still it is a wolf under the skin of a sheep as its negative impacts outweigh the benefits.
On one hand, the digitalization of the world has demanded the parents and the society to make their kids indulge with techs which would help them survive in the modern world. The gaming sector has also started evolving targeting the younger generation with survival and strategy games that help in unlocking the logical and aptitude thinking in children. There are games and applications that are developed even for the newborns that would enhance their cerebral activity with multiple colors and patterns.
On the other hand, I would have to lend my voice to the fact that the digital era has totally disrupted the physical growth and activities of the children. Before the technical advancements, children would step out and play their favorite sport along with their real friends whatsoever the weather be. But the kids of these generation are deprived of the fun from outdoor and indoor games as they spend their leisure time in playing virtual games with virtual people who may be real or could be a bot. These have lead to medical and mental health problems like childhood obesity, retinal damage, syndromes.
In conclusion, even though the modern technology has improved the way and the pace in which a child learns and spend its free time, it also has its own adverse effects on the factors that are beyond our imagination.
Reply
Sunil Chaudhary
Posted on Jul 31, 2018
Nice blog. Thanks for sharing
Reply