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CELPIP Speaking Task 7: Expressing Opinions

CELPIP Speaking Task 7 Sample Answer: Social Media Age Restrictions

By David

Should there be a minimum age for using social media? Explain your opinion, thinking about how social media might affect young people’s safety, mental health, and daily lives.

Preparation
30 seconds
Speaking
90 seconds
Structure
Opinion, reasons, conclusion

The question

Should there be a minimum age for using social media? Explain your opinion, thinking about how social media might affect young people’s safety, mental health, and daily lives.

Excellent answer (transcript): around CLB 11–12

I firmly believe that social media should have an age restriction due to its potential risks for young users. Firstly, children are particularly vulnerable to online threats like cyberbullying, predators, and exposure to inappropriate content, which can harm their mental well-being. Secondly, excessive social media use can disrupt their development, impairing focus on education and face-to-face social skills. Implementing an age limit—say, 13 or 16—would allow time for maturity and parental guidance to mitigate these risks. While some argue it limits freedom, the priority should be safeguarding youth. In conclusion, an age restriction is a necessary safeguard for a healthier digital environment.

102 words

Good answer (transcript): around CLB 7–8

Yes, I think there should be an age limit for social media. First, young kids might not understand the dangers, like strangers or bullying online. Second, too much time on social media can affect their studies or sleep. An age limit can protect them until they’re older and more responsible. In conclusion, an age limit is a good way to keep kids safe.

63 words

Basic answer (transcript): around CLB 4–5

Yes, I think there should be an age limit. Kids use social media too much, and it’s not safe. They can see bad things. So, a limit is good.

29 words

The CLBs are estimates of the level each sample was written at, not official CELPIP scores. How we estimate CLB

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