Some people think watching TV is bad for children in every way. Others think it is good for developing children as they grow up. Discuss both of these views and give your own opinion.

Question:

Some people think that watching TV is bad for children in every way. Others think it is good for developing children as they grow up. Discuss both of these views and give your own opinion.

Band 9 Answer

The impact of television on children is a subject that has sparked considerable debate. While some assert that watching TV is detrimental in every aspect, others maintain that it plays a significant role in a child’s development. Personally, I contend that the effect of TV depends largely on the content and the context in which it is viewed.

Proponents of the negative view argue that excessive TV exposure can lead to a range of issues. Children may be exposed to violent or inappropriate content, which can adversely affect their behavior and emotional well-being. Moreover, spending too much time in front of the screen often replaces opportunities for physical activity and face-to-face social interaction, essential elements for healthy development.

Conversely, advocates for the positive impact of television highlight its educational potential. Numerous high-quality programs are designed to enhance language skills, teach basic numeracy and science, and even introduce young viewers to different cultures and perspectives. When used judiciously, television can serve as a valuable tool to supplement traditional education and stimulate intellectual curiosity.

From my perspective, while television certainly has its pitfalls, its benefits can be harnessed if parents and educators monitor and regulate viewing habits. By limiting screen time and ensuring that children are exposed to enriching content, the medium can contribute positively to a child’s growth without overwhelming their development.

Vocabulary

• Detrimental
• Adversely
• Judiciously
• Enriching
• Stimulate
• Intellectual curiosity
• Face-to-face
• Supplement
• Emotional well-being
• Pitfalls

Band 8 Answer

There is a strong debate about whether watching TV is harmful or beneficial for children. Some people argue that TV exposes children to inappropriate content and encourages a sedentary lifestyle, which can lead to health and behavioral problems. They believe that too much screen time might hinder a child’s ability to interact socially and develop creative skills.

On the other hand, many argue that television offers numerous educational opportunities. Programs designed for children can improve language skills, teach basic concepts in science and math, and even expose them to different cultures and ways of thinking. These benefits can aid in a child’s overall development if the content is appropriate and the viewing time is controlled.

In my opinion, the effects of television on children depend largely on the choices made by parents and caregivers. With proper supervision and a balanced schedule that includes outdoor activities and reading, TV can be a useful educational tool rather than a harmful distraction.

Overall, I believe that while television has its drawbacks, it can be beneficial if used in moderation and with careful selection of content.

Vocabulary

• Inappropriate
• Sedentary
• Hinder
• Exposed
• Educational opportunities
• Supervision
• Balanced schedule
• Moderation
• Distraction
• Overall

Band-7 Answer

Many people believe that watching TV is bad for children because it can expose them to violent or unsuitable content and take time away from physical play and social interaction. They worry that too much screen time might lead to problems in behavior and learning.

However, there is another view which holds that television can be a good tool for learning. Educational shows can help children improve their language and math skills and even teach them about science and history in an interesting way. Such programs can also introduce them to different cultures and ideas.

In my opinion, the effect of TV on children depends on the type of programs they watch and the amount of time spent watching. If parents set limits and choose quality content, television can be a useful supplement to traditional education.

Overall, I believe that while TV has its risks, it also has potential benefits if used wisely and in moderation.

Vocabulary

• Unsuitable
• Screen time
• Behavior
• Supplement
• Moderation
• Educational
• Cultures
• Interaction
• Exposure
• Quality content

Band-6 Answer

Some people say that watching TV is very bad for children because it can expose them to things they should not see and because it takes away time from playing outside or reading books. They are worried that too much TV may cause children to have problems with their behavior and make them less active.

Other people believe that TV can be good for children if they watch the right programs. Educational shows, cartoons that teach lessons, and programs about nature and science can help children learn new words, improve their knowledge, and get ideas about the world. Watching TV can also be a fun way for children to relax after studying or playing.

In my opinion, whether TV is good or bad depends on how it is used. I think that if parents choose good quality programs and set limits on how long children watch TV, then it can be a helpful tool. It should not replace other important activities like playing, reading, or talking with family and friends.

Furthermore, parents should be involved in their children’s viewing habits and discuss what they watch to help them understand and learn better. This way, TV can be used in a balanced way that supports a child’s development.

Overall, I believe that television can have both positive and negative effects on children, and it is up to parents to make sure that it is used wisely.

Vocabulary

• Unsuitable
• Behavior
• Active
• Educational shows
• Relax
• Quality programs
• Balanced
• Viewing habits
• Involved
• Supports

Connectors Used

• While
• However
• Moreover
• On the other hand
• In addition
• Furthermore
• Overall
• Thus
• Consequently
• Not only… but also