IUE-SFL · Writing Skills and Strategies · Extra writing tasks · Student’s Copy

Part 3
Extra writing tasks — Reason (integrated)

Four practice tasks. Read a text, listen to a talk, take notes, and build reasons from both.

Reason · integrated

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.

1

Why should young people reduce their screen time?

Reason · integrated

This is an integrated writing task. Read, listen and take notes first — then plan and write.

1

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.

2

Listen Twice — take notes as you go.

ListeningWhy Too Much Screen Time Is Bad for You

Play it twice. Take notes as you listen.

3

Take notes One box for each source.

Effects on eyesight and physical health

Reading
Listening

Impact on sleep

Reading
Listening

Influence on mood and social wellbeing

Reading
Listening

Healthier alternatives to screen time

Reading
Listening
4

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

0 / 130 words

Nothing is saved automatically. Copy or save your paragraph before you close this tab — only your own writing is saved, not the exercises.

2

Why is learning a foreign language important?

Reason · integrated

This is an integrated writing task. Read, listen and take notes first — then plan and write.

1

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.

2

Listen Twice — take notes as you go.

ListeningWhy Everyone Should Learn a Foreign Language

Play it twice. Take notes as you listen.

3

Take notes One box for each source.

Career and employment benefits

Reading
Listening

Benefits for the mind and brain

Reading
Listening

Cultural and social benefits

Reading
Listening
4

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

0 / 130 words

Nothing is saved automatically. Copy or save your paragraph before you close this tab — only your own writing is saved, not the exercises.

3

Why is physical exercise important for university students?

Reason · integrated

This is an integrated writing task. Read, listen and take notes first — then plan and write.

1

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.

2

Listen Twice — take notes as you go.

ListeningWhy Exercise Is Essential for Students

Play it twice. Take notes as you listen.

3

Take notes One box for each source.

Importance of exercise for students

Reading
Listening

Physical and mental benefits

Reading
Listening

Social and academic benefits

Reading
Listening
4

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

0 / 130 words

Nothing is saved automatically. Copy or save your paragraph before you close this tab — only your own writing is saved, not the exercises.

4

Why is getting enough sleep important for students?

Reason · integrated

This is an integrated writing task. Read, listen and take notes first — then plan and write.

1

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.

2

Listen Twice — take notes as you go.

ListeningWhy Sleep Is Vital for Student Success

Play it twice. Take notes as you listen.

3

Take notes One box for each source.

Importance of sleep for academic success

Reading
Listening

Problems caused by poor sleep

Reading
Listening

Effects of poor sleep on health and wellbeing

Reading
Listening
4

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

0 / 130 words

Nothing is saved automatically. Copy or save your paragraph before you close this tab — only your own writing is saved, not the exercises.