The increasing use of computers and mobile phones for communication has had a negative effect on young people's reading and writing skills.

Practice this IELTS Writing Task 2 question on IELTSX. The increasing use of computers and mobile phones for communication has had a negative effect on young people's reading and writing skills.

Increasing use computers mobile phones communication negative effect young people reading writing skills - IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Write at least 250 words.

A student's answer to this task, and the feedback on it

Written by an IELTSX user under exam conditions and published unedited and anonymously. Band 8 ยท 267 words.

In recent years, computers and mobile phones have become the primary means of communication for many young people. Some argue that this trend has negatively affected their reading and writing abilities. I partly agree with this view because although excessive use of digital communication can weaken certain language skills, technology can also encourage literacy in various ways.

On the one hand, frequent use of text messages and social media often exposes young people to informal language, abbreviations, and grammatical mistakes. As a result, they may become accustomed to writing short and incomplete sentences rather than producing well-structured pieces of writing. Moreover, many teenagers spend more time chatting online than reading books, which limits their vocabulary development and reduces their ability to understand complex texts. For example, students who rarely read academic materials may struggle to write essays effectively.

On the other hand, computers and smartphones also provide access to a vast amount of educational content. Young people can read online articles, e-books, and news websites, which helps broaden their knowledge and improve their comprehension skills. In addition, digital tools such as spell-checkers and language-learning applications can assist users in developing more accurate writing. Personally, I have improved my English vocabulary considerably through reading online resources and communicating with people from different countries.

In conclusion, I partly agree that the widespread use of computers and mobile phones can have a negative impact on young people's reading and writing skills. However, I believe that the overall effect depends largely on how these technologies are used. When used wisely, they can actually contribute to language development rather than hinder it.

Examiner feedback

This is an exceptionally strong essay that demonstrates high proficiency across all four criteria. The argument is balanced, well-structured, and written with a level of naturalness and accuracy that places it firmly in the Band 8 range.

Task Response - 8

- Sufficiently addresses all parts of the task by discussing both the negative impacts and the potential benefits of digital communication. - Presents a well-developed position that the overall effect depends on usage, which is sustained throughout the response. - Ideas are relevant, extended, and supported with appropriate examples (e.g., the reference to spell-checkers and online articles).

Coherence & Cohesion - 8

- Information and ideas are sequenced logically with a clear progression from the introduction to the conclusion. - Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a clear central topic. - Cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'Moreover', and 'In addition' are used effectively without being overused or mechanical.

Lexical Resource - 8

- A wide range of vocabulary is used fluently to convey precise meanings (e.g., 'primary means', 'informal language', 'vocabulary development', 'hinder'). - Skillful use of less common lexical items and strong collocations is evident throughout the essay. - Spelling and word formation are accurate, with very few, if any, errors.

Grammatical Range & Accuracy - 8

- A wide range of structures is used, including complex sentences with multiple subordinate clauses. - The majority of sentences are error-free, demonstrating high control over grammar and punctuation. - Occasional minor slips do not detract from the clarity or professionalism of the writing.

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