Topic 1: Does increasing travels between countries enable people to learn different cultures or to

Topic 96: Computers do not help children learn more effectively. On the contrary, the 
use of computers has a negative effect on children's physical and mental development. 
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
 
(topical issue), (have a broad knowledge of many subjects); 
(obsessed with the computer) (create distractions) ;
(impair vision);
(excessive reliance on computer use)
The new millennium computer technology is set to become an essential feature of the society. 
People are very often confronted with the argument concerning the impact of widespread 
computer use on young people. In my opinion, using computers can be either beneficial or 
harmful, so moderation is the key.
Excessive use of computers is unarguably detrimental, as it can place children at risk in terms 
of their physical, social and psychological development. Studies have pointed to the fact that 
children need physical activity and social interaction to be healthy, happy and productive 
individuals. Unmonitored use of computers isolates them from those activities and makes them 
indifferent to the real world. They are so immersed in the computer that they are rarely concerned 
about the people and matters around them. It leads to a drop in their interaction with others, 
organized sports and other social activities that are conducive to their development.
Another hazard of excessive computer use is children's increased exposure to violent and 
sexual contents beyond their years, which have long-term negative effects on their lives. Repeated 
exposure to violence has been recognized and singled out as a decisive element responsible for 
children's subsequent aggressive behaviour. Although computer games that have violent themes 
have been forbidden in many countries, tens of thousands of children are vulnerable to other 
forms of violence that spread on the Internet.
Despite the negative effects of excessive computer use, adults can take advantage of computer 
technology in different areas of education. Educational games, for example, are believed to have 
positive effects on children's intellectual well-being. Some computer games are developed 
specifically to help children develop academic skills required for schoolwork. Computers 
meanwhile provide an escape for children who experience high levels of pressure in the daytime 
and offer them a balance between campus and off-campus life.
As suggested above, healthy and appropriate use of computers is accepted and encouraged. 
By giving children ongoing instructions, imposing a limit on computer time and classing the types 
of content a child can view, teachers and parents are able to use the computer technology to great 
advantage while avoiding possible harms. 
1. detrimental=harmful=damaging=unfavorable
2. unmonitored=unsupervised=uncontrolled
3. immersed in=absorbed in=engrossed by
4. rarely=hardly=seldom=once in a blue moon
5. conducive=favorable=helpful=advantageous=beneficial
6. hazard=risk=peril=danger
7. theme=main subject=main idea
8. escape=diversion=distraction=pastime
9. 
c1ass=classify=categorize=group
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