The Hidden Price of a “Like”: IELTS Vocabulary

Ever been here?

New Band 9 Vocabulary

Use it to answer this speaking or writing question.

There is too much pollution in cities. What can we do about it?

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Use it to answer this speaking or writing question.

There is too much pollution in cities. What can we do about it?

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Task 2 Essay Question & Model Answer

Question: The widespread use of social media among teenagers has caused significant mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression. To what extent do you agree with this statement?

Model Introduction and paragraph

In the modern era, social media has become a pervasive force, fundamentally altering how young people communicate and interact. This essay will argue that social media is a key causative factor of psychological distress among adolescents, leading to a demonstrable erosion of their self-esteem.

The constant exposure to a curated reality, where users only share the highlights of their lives, can have a detrimental effect on a teen’s perception of their own life. This practice of social comparison, a phenomenon exacerbated by digital platforms, often leads to feelings of inadequacy and a deep-seated sense of not being good enough. Furthermore, the pressure to gain approval through likes and comments can become a form of validation-seeking behavior, a detrimental habit that can lead to increased anxiety and obsessive thought patterns. It is therefore clear that the psychological landscape of teenagers is profoundly shaped by their digital lives.

Now, you are producing language like an academic, not just a scared IELTS student.

Practice:

 This question requires a nuanced, two-sided argument, which is what examiners are looking for at a Band 7 or higher. (nuanced means ‘detailed’)

They told you: “keep practicing, but…”

You smile and say thank you, but deep inside you think: “how am I ever going to express myself?!

Here’s how to deploy (use) your vocabulary!

IELTS Task 2 Practice Question

Question: It is often argued that the pervasive use of social media among adolescents has had a detrimental effect on their mental health. While this is a widely held view, others believe that social media can be a valuable tool for young people, fostering a sense of community and support.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Instructions:

Ensure you use some of the new vocabulary you have learned, such as pervasive, detrimental, causative factor, and mitigate.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Write at least 250 words.

Allocate about 40 minutes for this task.

“I know that band 7 word but I can’t use it.”

To get more powerful IELTS writing instruction, join the IELTS Insiders’ Band 7 Writing Course FREE

Part 3 Speaking Question & Sample Answers

Question: What do you think schools and parents should do to help teenagers deal with the pressure of social media?

Band 6 Answer

I think schools should teach students about the dangers of social media. Parents should also talk to their children about it and tell them not to spend too much time on their phones. It’s important for young people to know that social media can be bad for their health.

Children are young and impressionable. (impress means for example to press on something, like a stamp on a paper) They should not be exposed to consumer culture at such a young age because…..(their minds need to develop)

Band 7 Answer

I believe that both schools and parents have a crucial role to play in helping teenagers navigate this complex issue. For example, schools could integrate a curriculum on digital literacy to help students recognize the manipulative aspects of social media, such as the psychology behind ‘likes’ and notifications. Simultaneously, parents must mitigate the negative impacts by setting healthy boundaries, such as device-free dinners. I think it is the responsibility of both institutions to foster a more balanced and critical approach to technology.

Follow-up Question 1: The Responsibility Question

Who do you think holds the primary responsibility for mitigating the negative effects of social media: the platforms themselves, or the users?

Follow-up Question 2: The Future Question

In your opinion, how will the relationship between social media and mental health evolve over the next decade?

What’s next?

To master essay introductions: go to the IELTS Insider Basics Course now!