IELTS.international
Opinionacademic·2026

Some argue that children should spend more time outdoors and less time on digital devices. What measures can parents and schools take to encourage this?

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Step 1

IELTS Examiner Tips for This Topic

1

When addressing this question, state your clear position in the introduction, likely agreeing that children should spend more time outdoors. While acknowledging the educational or connective benefits of digital devices, frame this as a concession before pivoting to the overriding importance of outdoor engagement and the practical measures to achieve it. Your main body paragraphs should then consistently defend this stance by detailing effective strategies.

2

Students could effectively use the concept of 'nature deficit disorder' to highlight the psychological benefits of outdoor play, or cite the success of 'Forest Schools' in countries like Denmark or the UK as a model for educational institutions. Additionally, referencing the global rise in childhood obesity rates can underscore the physical health imperative for increased outdoor activity, providing a strong real-world context.

3

The most common mistake on this question is focusing too heavily on *why* outdoor time is beneficial and *why* digital devices are problematic, rather than directly addressing the core of the prompt: 'What measures can parents and schools take?' To avoid this, ensure at least two main body paragraphs are explicitly dedicated to concrete, actionable steps for parents and then for schools, providing specific examples for each measure.

4

For this opinion essay, a strong linking strategy involves transitioning smoothly between the roles of parents and schools, and then between different types of measures. Use phrases such as 'Beyond the home environment, educational institutions also bear a significant responsibility' or 'While parental guidance is foundational, schools can further reinforce these values through...' to connect your ideas logically and demonstrate coherence.

5

Examiners awarding a band 8-9 for this question look for a nuanced understanding of the modern dilemma, offering sophisticated and practical measures rather than generic suggestions. A high-scoring response will demonstrate a broad range of vocabulary related to child development, education, and digital literacy, alongside complex grammatical structures used accurately to present a well-developed, coherent argument with clear examples of implementable strategies.

Step 2

Recommended Essay Structure (Band 7+ Standard)

1
Introduction

Hook the examiner and establish your position immediately.

  • Rephrase the question using powerful synonyms — avoid copying words
  • State your opinion clearly in the final sentence — leave no doubt
  • Keep it tight: 2-3 sentences max. Every word must earn its place.

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

It is often argued that...There is a growing debate about whether...In my view, ... because ...
2
Body Paragraph 1 — Your Strongest Argument

Make your most compelling case with undeniable evidence.

  • Start with a powerful topic sentence — state your argument boldly
  • Support with concrete evidence: statistics, real-world cases, or expert research
  • Explain exactly HOW your evidence proves your point — connect the dots for the examiner

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

The primary reason I hold this view is that...This is clearly illustrated by...For instance, in many countries...
3
Body Paragraph 2 — Supporting Argument

Strengthen your position with a complementary perspective.

  • Choose a different angle — if paragraph 1 was economic, try social, environmental, or ethical
  • Use fresh evidence — avoid repeating the same examples or reasoning
  • Explicitly link back to your thesis — show how this strengthens your overall position

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

Furthermore, it is worth considering that...Another compelling argument is that...This is further supported by the fact that...
4
Conclusion

Leave a lasting impression with a confident, memorable ending.

  • Never introduce new ideas — this is your final summary
  • Restate your position using stronger vocabulary than the introduction
  • Keep it powerful: 2 sentences max. End with authority.

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

In conclusion, I firmly believe that...To sum up, the evidence clearly suggests that...

Step 3

High-Scoring Vocabulary & Collocations

nature deficit disorderThe idea that human beings, especially children, are spending less time outdoors resulting in a wide range of behavioral problems.
unstructured playSpontaneous, child-led play without specific rules or adult supervision, crucial for creativity and problem-solving.
digital nativesA generation of people who have grown up with digital technology and are comfortable with it.
a compelling argument can be madeA strong and convincing reason can be presented.
it is widely acknowledged thatIt is generally accepted or recognized by many people.
this notion is predicated onThis idea or belief is based on or depends on.
from my perspectiveIn my opinion or point of view.
the evidence overwhelmingly suggestsThe data or facts strongly indicate.
notwithstandingIn spite of; despite.
this is not to say thatThis does not mean that; used to clarify a statement by ruling out a possible misinterpretation.

Step 4

Academic Phrases for This Essay Type

It is widely acknowledged thatThere is compelling evidence to suggestThis phenomenon can be attributed toA growing body of research indicatesThe implications of this are far-reachingThis raises important questions aboutFrom a broader perspectiveIt would be short-sighted to ignore

Addition

MoreoverFurthermoreIn additionWhat is more

Contrast

HoweverNeverthelessOn the other handConversely

Cause / Effect

ConsequentlyAs a resultThereforeThis leads to

Example

For instanceTo illustrateA case in point isSuch as

Concession

AlthoughWhile it is true thatDespiteAdmittedly

Step 5

Grammar Patterns for Band 7+

Complex sentence with concession

Although some argue that technology isolates people, the evidence suggests it strengthens connections.

Shows advanced grammatical control. Start with 'Although/While' + opposing view, then state your position — demonstrates nuanced thinking.

Conditional (Type 2)

If governments invested more in public transport, traffic congestion would decrease significantly.

Perfect for hypothetical scenarios and solutions. Structure: 'If + past simple, would + infinitive' — shows flexibility and imagination.

Passive for academic tone

It is often argued that education should be free. However, this view overlooks the practical challenges.

Academic writing favors passive constructions. 'It is + past participle + that' creates authoritative, objective tone.

Relative clause

Students who study abroad, which is becoming increasingly common, tend to develop greater independence.

Adds sophistication without complexity. Use 'who' for people, 'which' for things, 'that' for either.

Noun phrase for density

The rapid expansion of urban areas has led to increased pollution levels.

Packs more information into fewer words. 'The implementation of effective policies' vs 'policies are implemented effectively' — boosts Lexical Resource score.

Step 6

Band 9 Model Answer (Fully Marked)

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