Before you start — what this text type needs
Read the text, listen to the talk, and take notes. Then write a paragraph giving reasons. Use ideas from both sources in your own words — do not copy sentences. State your view in the topic sentence. Use First of all, / Secondly, / Furthermore, and cause-and-effect language.
Teacher’s notes — Part 3: Extra writing tasks (Reason, integrated)
These four tasks extend Units 5 and 6. Each has its own reading text, its own recording and its own note-taking table, so any one of them can be set as a complete standalone task — useful for make-up work or as a mock for the integrated exam question.
Task 1 is the best one to teach with. Its note table contains two rows the reading does not cover at all — mood and social wellbeing, and healthier alternatives. Students who only read will leave half the table empty, which makes the point of an integrated task visible in a way that telling them does not.
All four model answers name their sources (according to the listening, both the reading and the listening). This is worth teaching explicitly: it shows the reader that both sources were used, which is exactly what the task is assessing.
The word counts in the printed booklet are understated. The four models are listed as roughly 155 words but actually run to 170–180. The figures shown on this page are counted from the text itself.
Students do not have the listening transcripts. They are behind the reveal buttons in this copy only.
Why should young people reduce their screen time?
Reason · integratedThis is an integrated writing task. Read, listen and take notes first — then plan and write.
Read Take notes as you read.
ReadingThe Effects of Too Much Screen Time
Many young people today spend several hours a day looking at screens, and this is beginning to have serious effects on their health. One of the most common problems is eye strain. When people stare at a phone or computer screen for a long time without a break, their eyes become tired and dry. This can cause headaches and make it difficult to focus. Another effect of too much screen time is poor sleep. Many teenagers use their phones late at night, and the bright light from the screen makes it harder for the brain to relax. As a result, they do not get enough sleep, which affects their energy and concentration the next day. Screen time can also have a negative impact on physical fitness. Young people who spend most of their free time on devices tend to sit still for long periods and do less exercise. This can lead to weight gain and other health problems over time. In conclusion, too much screen time can harm young people’s eyes, sleep, and physical health in serious ways.
Listen Twice — take notes as you go.
ListeningWhy Too Much Screen Time Is Bad for You
Audio file not found — check that the audio folder sits next to this page.
Play it twice. Students do not have the transcript.
TranscriptWhy Too Much Screen Time Is Bad for You
How much time did you spend looking at a screen yesterday? For most young people, the honest answer is: too much. Doctors report that people who spend many hours on their devices frequently complain of eye strain, headaches, and even blurred vision. Screens also encourage us to sit still for long periods, which is bad for our general fitness. The problem becomes worse at night. The blue light from a phone or tablet tricks the brain into thinking it is still daytime, so the brain stays awake when it should be resting, and over time this lack of sleep can lead to serious health problems. Perhaps most worrying of all is the effect on our minds. Research shows that teenagers who spend a great deal of time on social media are more likely to feel lonely, anxious, and unhappy, because they constantly compare themselves to others. They also have fewer face-to-face conversations, which weakens their social skills. So instead of reaching for a screen, try going outside, doing some sport, or meeting a friend in person. Reducing your screen time really does matter — for your physical health and your mental health.
Take notes One box for each source.
Effects on eyesight and physical health
Impact on sleep
Influence on mood and social wellbeing
Healthier alternatives to screen time
Plan and write
Why should young people reduce their screen time? Use your notes from the reading and the listening to write a paragraph of at least 130 words giving reasons.
One paragraph · three parts · minimum 130 words.
My plan Notes first — then write.
My paragraph
Nothing is saved automatically. Copy or save your paragraph before you close this tab — only your own writing is saved, not the exercises.
Model plan and answer For modelling and for calibrating your marking.
| Topic sentence | There are several important reasons why young people should reduce the amount of time they spend looking at screens. |
| Body idea 1 | Physical effects: eye strain, headaches, poor sleep — from both sources. |
| Body idea 2 | Mental and social effects: anxiety, loneliness, weakened social skills — from the listening only. |
| Concluding sentence | Reducing screen time is important for overall health and wellbeing. |
Model answer · 173 words
There are several compelling reasons why young people should reduce the amount of time they spend looking at screens. First of all, both the reading and the listening highlight the damaging effects that screens have on eyesight. Staring at a phone or computer for extended periods causes eye strain, headaches, and blurred vision, making it harder to concentrate. Furthermore, late-night screen use is particularly harmful because the bright light from devices prevents the brain from relaxing, leading to poor sleep quality. Without adequate rest, students experience low energy and reduced concentration the following day. In addition, according to the listening, excessive screen time has a serious impact on mental health. Research shows that teenagers who spend a great deal of time on social media are more likely to feel lonely and anxious, because they constantly compare themselves to others. They also tend to have fewer face-to-face interactions, which weakens their social skills over time. For all these reasons, reducing screen time is essential for the physical, mental, and social wellbeing of young people.
Why is learning a foreign language important?
Reason · integratedThis is an integrated writing task. Read, listen and take notes first — then plan and write.
Read Take notes as you read.
ReadingThe Advantages of Learning a Foreign Language
Learning a foreign language is one of the most valuable things a young person can do. To begin with, speaking another language opens up enormous opportunities in the world of work. Many companies operate internationally, and employees who can communicate in two or more languages are significantly more employable and often earn higher salaries. Secondly, learning a language gives you direct access to another culture. You can read books, watch films, and understand music in the original language, which provides a far deeper appreciation of that culture than any translation can offer. In addition, research shows that learning a foreign language changes the structure of the brain. Bilingual people tend to have better memory, sharper attention, and stronger problem-solving skills. For example, a student who learns two languages simultaneously develops a cognitive flexibility that benefits all areas of academic and personal life. In conclusion, the benefits of learning a foreign language extend far beyond communication — they transform the way you think, work, and understand the world.
Listen Twice — take notes as you go.
ListeningWhy Everyone Should Learn a Foreign Language
Audio file not found — check that the audio folder sits next to this page.
Play it twice. Students do not have the transcript.
TranscriptWhy Everyone Should Learn a Foreign Language
If you could give yourself one gift this year, I would suggest a foreign language. First of all, think about your career. Employers everywhere actively look for candidates who can work in more than one language, and studies consistently show that bilingual workers earn more than their monolingual colleagues. Secondly, learning a language is like a gym for the brain. People who speak two languages tend to have stronger memories and better concentration, and some research suggests they may even have a lower risk of developing dementia in later life. For me, however, the greatest rewards are personal. When you speak someone’s language, you can have real conversations with people from other cultures — you understand their humour, their stories, and their literature in a way that no translation can offer. Finally, learning a language teaches you patience and resilience, because progress is slow and every small success builds your confidence. In short, everyone should learn a foreign language: it changes your career, your brain, and the way you understand other people.
Take notes One box for each source.
Career and employment benefits
Benefits for the mind and brain
Cultural and social benefits
Plan and write
Why is learning a foreign language important? Use your notes from the reading and the listening to write a paragraph of at least 130 words.
One paragraph · three parts · minimum 130 words.
My plan Notes first — then write.
My paragraph
Nothing is saved automatically. Copy or save your paragraph before you close this tab — only your own writing is saved, not the exercises.
Model plan and answer For modelling and for calibrating your marking.
| Topic sentence | Learning a foreign language is one of the most valuable investments a young person can make, for a wide range of reasons. |
| Body idea 1 | Career advantages: more employable, higher salaries — both sources agree. |
| Body idea 2 | Cognitive and cultural benefits: stronger memory, brain health, deeper cultural understanding. |
| Concluding sentence | Language learning is a life skill that opens doors in every area of life. |
Model answer · 176 words
Learning a foreign language is one of the most valuable investments a young person can make, for a wide range of practical and personal reasons. First of all, both the reading and the listening emphasise the significant career advantages that come with bilingualism. In today’s globalised economy, employers actively seek candidates who can communicate in more than one language, and bilingual workers typically receive higher salaries than their monolingual colleagues. Secondly, according to the reading, learning a language has a transformative effect on the brain, improving memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. The listening adds that bilingual people may even be less likely to develop conditions such as dementia in later life. In addition, speaking another language gives you direct access to another culture. Instead of relying on translations, you can read books, watch films, and hold genuine conversations in the original language, which leads to a much deeper understanding of the world. In conclusion, learning a foreign language is far more than a school subject — it is a life skill that opens doors in every direction.
Why is physical exercise important for university students?
Reason · integratedThis is an integrated writing task. Read, listen and take notes first — then plan and write.
Read Take notes as you read.
ReadingWhy Regular Exercise Matters
Exercise is one of the most important things a person can do for their physical and mental health. First of all, regular physical activity strengthens the heart, lungs, and muscles, reducing the risk of serious illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Studies show that people who exercise for at least thirty minutes five days a week live significantly longer than those who do not. Secondly, exercise has a powerful positive effect on mental health. When you exercise, your brain releases chemicals called endorphins, which create feelings of happiness and reduce anxiety and depression. For many students, a short run or gym session is the most effective way to manage exam stress. In addition, regular exercise improves sleep quality — people who exercise regularly fall asleep more quickly and sleep more deeply. Furthermore, sport and group exercise classes provide excellent opportunities to socialise and build new friendships. In conclusion, exercise is not simply about having a fit body — it is a fundamental part of a balanced, healthy, and happy student life.
Listen Twice — take notes as you go.
ListeningWhy Exercise Is Essential for Students
Audio file not found — check that the audio folder sits next to this page.
Play it twice. Students do not have the transcript.
TranscriptWhy Exercise Is Essential for Students
Many students believe that exercise is a luxury they cannot afford during a busy term, but in fact the opposite is true. Physical activity has a direct impact on academic performance. When you exercise, blood flow to the brain increases, which improves concentration, memory, and the ability to process new information. Studies repeatedly show that students who exercise regularly achieve higher grades than those who spend all their time sitting at a desk. Exercise is also one of the best tools we have for managing stress. Physical activity lowers the level of stress hormones in the body and releases endorphins — the chemicals that make us feel calm and positive. In addition, students who are physically active sleep better: they fall asleep faster and wake up feeling more rested and alert. And do not forget the social side. Joining a sports team or an exercise class gives you a sense of belonging and a welcome break from academic work. In conclusion, exercise is not time taken away from studying — it is what makes effective studying possible.
Take notes One box for each source.
Importance of exercise for students
Physical and mental benefits
Social and academic benefits
Plan and write
Why is physical exercise important for university students? Use your notes from the reading and the listening to write a paragraph of at least 130 words.
One paragraph · three parts · minimum 130 words.
My plan Notes first — then write.
My paragraph
Nothing is saved automatically. Copy or save your paragraph before you close this tab — only your own writing is saved, not the exercises.
Model plan and answer For modelling and for calibrating your marking.
| Topic sentence | Physical exercise is essential for university students because it benefits their academic performance, mental health, and social wellbeing. |
| Body idea 1 | Academic and cognitive benefits: improved concentration, memory, higher grades — from the listening. |
| Body idea 2 | Mental health: endorphins reduce anxiety and stress; better sleep quality — both sources. |
| Concluding sentence | Exercise is not a distraction — it makes studying more effective. |
Model answer · 173 words
Physical exercise is essential for university students because it benefits not only their physical health but also their academic performance and mental wellbeing. First of all, according to the listening, regular physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, which directly improves concentration, memory, and the ability to process new information. Research shows that students who exercise regularly achieve higher grades than those who lead sedentary lives. Secondly, both the reading and the listening highlight the powerful mental health benefits of exercise. Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, which create a natural sense of happiness and reduce anxiety and depression — feelings that many students experience during exam periods. Furthermore, exercise significantly improves sleep quality: students who are physically active fall asleep more quickly and wake up feeling more rested and alert. Finally, sport and group exercise provide important social benefits, giving students a sense of belonging and a healthy break from academic pressure. In conclusion, exercise is not a distraction from studying — it is one of the things that makes studying possible.
Why is getting enough sleep important for students?
Reason · integratedThis is an integrated writing task. Read, listen and take notes first — then plan and write.
Read Take notes as you read.
ReadingSleep and Academic Success
Sleep is one of the most underestimated factors in academic performance. Many students believe they can study more effectively by sleeping less, but research consistently shows the opposite is true. First of all, sleep is essential for memory consolidation — the process by which the brain stores and organises the information learned during the day. A student who sleeps for eight hours after studying will remember significantly more the next morning than one who stays up all night. Secondly, lack of sleep seriously impairs concentration, decision-making, and problem-solving — all essential for performing well in exams. Students who are chronically sleep-deprived also have weaker immune systems, making them more likely to fall ill during exam season. In addition, poor sleep directly affects emotional wellbeing. Sleep-deprived students are more likely to experience anxiety and low mood, which affects their motivation and relationships. In conclusion, getting seven to nine hours of quality sleep is not a luxury — for a student, it is as important as attending lectures.
Listen Twice — take notes as you go.
ListeningWhy Sleep Is Vital for Student Success
Audio file not found — check that the audio folder sits next to this page.
Play it twice. Students do not have the transcript.
TranscriptWhy Sleep Is Vital for Student Success
Let me ask you a simple question: what is the single most effective study tool available to every student, completely free of charge? The answer is sleep. While you sleep, your brain is extremely busy — it processes and consolidates the information you learned during the day, transferring it from short-term to long-term memory. Without enough sleep, much of what you studied simply does not stay in your mind. Lack of sleep also has a dramatic effect on how well you think. When students are tired, their concentration, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities all drop sharply. In fact, research shows that students who regularly sleep fewer than six hours a night perform significantly worse academically than their well-rested classmates. Poor sleep affects the body too: tired students become ill more often, especially during stressful exam periods, and they are more likely to experience anxiety and low mood, which makes it harder to manage relationships with friends and family. To sum up, if you want to succeed as a student, protect your sleep as carefully as you protect your study time.
Take notes One box for each source.
Importance of sleep for academic success
Problems caused by poor sleep
Effects of poor sleep on health and wellbeing
Plan and write
Why is getting enough sleep important for students? Use your notes from the reading and the listening to write a paragraph of at least 130 words.
One paragraph · three parts · minimum 130 words.
My plan Notes first — then write.
My paragraph
Nothing is saved automatically. Copy or save your paragraph before you close this tab — only your own writing is saved, not the exercises.
Model plan and answer For modelling and for calibrating your marking.
| Topic sentence | Getting enough sleep is one of the most important things a university student can do, both for academic success and for their health. |
| Body idea 1 | Memory and learning: sleep consolidates information — both sources agree. |
| Body idea 2 | Cognitive performance: lack of sleep impairs concentration, thinking and exam performance. |
| Concluding sentence | Prioritising sleep is not laziness — it is essential for student success. |
Model answer · 182 words
Getting enough sleep is one of the most important things a university student can do, both for academic success and for their overall health. First of all, both the reading and the listening explain that sleep is essential for memory consolidation — the process by which the brain organises and stores information learned during the day. A student who sleeps well after a study session will retain far more information than one who stays up all night. Secondly, both sources make clear that sleep deprivation has a severe impact on cognitive performance. When students do not get enough rest, their ability to concentrate, think critically, and solve problems — all essential skills in lectures and exams — drops dramatically. Research cited in the listening shows that students who regularly sleep fewer than six hours perform significantly worse academically. Furthermore, poor sleep damages physical health, weakening the immune system and making students more vulnerable to illness, particularly during stressful exam periods. In conclusion, prioritising seven to nine hours of quality sleep is not a luxury — it is one of the smartest decisions a student can make.