Approaches to Agree or Disagree Questions in IELTS Writing: A Comprehensive Guide

When tackling agree or disagree questions in the IELTS Writing Task 2, it is crucial to take a clear stance and support your position firmly without contradicting yourself. The detailed approach outlined here focuses on creating a cohesive and compelling argument to ensure a high score.

Introduction

Let's begin by discussing an example topic: 'TV ADVERTISING SHOULD NOT BE SHOWN TO CHILDREN UNDER 12 YEARS OLD.' This question requires a clear position, which we will support by explaining why such advertisements are not suitable for young children. We will also briefly address the opposing view, providing reasons why children might be more sophisticated than imagined. The conclusion will summarize the main arguments and reinforce our stance.

Body Paragraphs

Body Paragraph 1: Supporting the Agreement

Firstly, it is important to recognize that children under 12 may not possess the cognitive development to fully appreciate the persuasive intent behind advertisements. These advertisements are often designed to entice children with appealing visuals and catchy slogans, which can lead to improper influence on their developing minds. For example, a child might feel the need to request a toy advertised on TV, which can cause financial strain on their families or even lead to poor decision-making habits. Furthermore, the educational content in these advertisements may be lacking, as they often focus more on grabbing attention than providing factual information. By limiting children's exposure to such advertisements, we can help protect their innocent and developing minds from unnecessary commercial pressures.

Body Paragraph 2: Addressing the Disagreement

While the above points are valid, it is also essential to address the opposing argument that suggests children are more sophisticated than the question assumes. A common belief is that children have the ability to discern between advertisements and real information. However, this is not entirely accurate, as numerous studies have shown that children are still prone to being influenced by advertisements, especially when they are repeatedly exposed to them. It is also important to recognize that the complexity of a child’s understanding is not solely based on age but also on individual differences. Thus, a blanket restriction may not be the most effective approach.

Addressing the Argument Against

Despite the growing sophistication of some children, for the majority of the under-12 age group, the persuasive nature of advertisements remains a significant issue. It is crucial to consider the broader impact on all children rather than just acknowledging the exceptional cases. By limiting exposure to advertisements, parents and educators can ensure that children are not unduly influenced by commercial messages and can focus more on their education and development.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the arguments presented in the body paragraphs clearly support the statement that TV advertising should not be shown to children under 12 years old. While it is true that some children might be more sophisticated, the majority of children in this age group remain susceptible to the persuasive and often misleading nature of advertisements. Therefore, it is in the best interest of the child’s mental and emotional development to limit their exposure to such content.

By actively seeking to protect children from the influences that advertisements can bring, we can help foster a more balanced and informed generation. Ultimately, it is our responsibility to ensure that children can grow up in an environment that prioritizes healthy development over consumerism.