Technology’s influence on parenting styles has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on analysis of past papers and current trends, questions about digital parenting and children’s technology use have appeared in approximately 15% of recent tests, particularly in countries like India, China, and South Korea where technology adoption is rapidly growing.
Similar questions have emerged in various formats, addressing impact of mobile devices on family interaction and their effects on child development. Let’s examine a recent IELTS task 2 question on this topic:
Some people believe that modern technology makes parenting more challenging, while others think it helps parents raise their children better. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This is a discussion + opinion type question requiring candidates to:
- Explore both positive and negative impacts of technology on parenting
- Present a balanced discussion of both perspectives
- Clearly state and support their personal view
- Provide relevant examples and explanations
Modern parents using technology while interacting with children showing both positive and negative aspects
Band 8.0 Sample Essay
In today’s digital age, technology’s role in parenting has become a subject of intense debate. While some argue that digital devices and online platforms complicate child-rearing, others maintain that technological advances facilitate better parenting practices. In my opinion, while technology offers valuable parenting tools, its benefits depend entirely on how parents choose to implement it.
Those who view technology as a parenting challenge raise valid concerns about its potential negative impacts. Digital distractions can significantly reduce quality time between parents and children, as demonstrated by the effects of technology on children’s attention spans. Many parents struggle to monitor their children’s online activities effectively, leading to exposure to inappropriate content or cyberbullying. Additionally, excessive screen time can interfere with children’s physical activities and social development.
However, proponents of technology-assisted parenting highlight numerous advantages. Educational apps and online resources provide children with interactive learning opportunities that were previously unavailable. Modern parents can access vast amounts of credible parenting advice, connect with expert communities, and track their children’s development through specialized applications. Furthermore, impact of social media on family relationships can be positive when used to maintain connections with extended family members.
In my view, the key lies in striking an appropriate balance. Parents should leverage technology’s benefits while establishing clear boundaries and maintaining personal connections. This might involve using educational apps together with children, setting specific screen-time limits, and ensuring that digital tools enhance rather than replace traditional parenting approaches.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Technology has changed how parents raise their children nowadays. Some people think it makes parenting harder while others believe it helps parents do a better job. I will discuss both sides and share my thoughts on this topic.
On one hand, technology can make parenting more difficult. Many parents spend too much time on their phones and don’t pay enough attention to their kids. Children also want to play games and watch videos all the time, which is hard for parents to control. Sometimes kids learn bad things from the internet that worry their parents.
However, technology can also help parents in many ways. They can find good information about raising children online and use educational apps to teach their kids. Parents can also stay in touch with their children through messaging apps when they are not together. Some parents use special apps to check their children’s location and keep them safe.
I think technology can be both good and bad for parenting. It depends on how parents use it. If they use technology wisely and set good rules for their children, it can be helpful. But if they let technology take over family life, it can cause problems. Parents should try to find a good balance.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.0 Essay Strengths:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with coherent paragraphs
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Effective use of linking devices
- Balanced discussion with clear personal stance
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simple but clear language
- Basic paragraph organization
- Limited range of vocabulary
- Some repetition of ideas
- Less sophisticated examples and explanations
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- digital age (n) /ˈdɪdʒɪtəl eɪdʒ/ – the current period characterized by widespread use of digital technology
- cyberbullying (n) /ˈsaɪbəˌbʊliɪŋ/ – the use of electronic communication to bully someone
- screen time (n) /skriːn taɪm/ – time spent using digital devices
- leverage (v) /ˈlevərɪdʒ/ – use something to maximum advantage
- interactive (adj) /ˌɪntərˈæktɪv/ – allowing two-way flow of information
- monitor (v) /ˈmɒnɪtə/ – observe and check progress or quality
- boundaries (n) /ˈbaʊndəriz/ – limits or restrictions
- facilitate (v) /fəˈsɪlɪteɪt/ – make an action or process easier
In conclusion, this topic remains highly relevant for IELTS candidates. Similar questions might focus on specific aspects like social media’s impact on family relationships or children’s screen time management. Practice writing essays on related topics such as:
- Technology’s influence on parent-child communication
- Digital literacy requirements for modern parents
- Balancing traditional and digital parenting approaches
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.
