General Training Model Answer – IELTS (Task 2)

Using a computer every day can have more negative than positive effects on young children.
Do you agree or disagree?

Children use computers more than ever before these days. They can be found surfing the internet, playing on-line games and on social network sites. Sometimes, especially when there is no parental control, they can spend too much time daily on computers.

Children need to learn how to operate computers as this is essential in their later life. The earlier they begin and the more they use them, the better they will become at learning everything about how they function. Youngsters are better able to learn new information and this can be done through computers.

However there is the downside of overuse to consider. Children who use the pc daily become anti-social. They become addicted to games and prefer these to going out with their friends and playing outdoors. Being on a computer for too long can affect a child’s health. Staring at a screen has a bad impact on someone’s eyes and children might experience headaches, back pain, sore wrists etc. What is more, some children forget to eat while some eat too much junk food as they are distracted by what they see in front of them.

To sum up, although computers are extremely useful for children and they can learn many things by using them, I do not think they should use them every day. There should be some sort of balance in their lives. Children need to get out for some fresh air and exercise. They should have other interests and spend time with their friends as well.

Question taken from IELTS 6 Past Papers p.126