Structure of an advantages-and-disadvantages essay: introduction (topic), advantages paragraph, disadvantages paragraph, conclusion (your opinion). Useful phrases: One advantage of... is that...; Another benefit is...; On the other hand...; However, a major disadvantage is...; In conclusion... Advantages of computers and social networks: fast access to information, communication at a distance, convenience for study and work. Disadvantages: wasting time, eye strain, false information, privacy risks, dependence. Remember the prepositions: depend on, spend time on, addicted to, waste time on, use for, communicate with, search for. For your health take breaks from the screen and sleep enough.
Worked examples
One advantage of social networks is that people can communicate with relatives abroad. However, some users spend too much time on them.
In conclusion, computers are very useful, but we must not depend on them completely.
Class activity
Debate: “Are social networks useful?” – two groups present their arguments.
Practice
1
Write one advantage and one disadvantage of smartphones.
Advantage: we can quickly search for information. Disadvantage: they can distract us from study.
2
Complete: He is addicted ___ online games. (to / of)
to
3
Write a concluding sentence for an essay on computers.
In conclusion, computers are helpful tools if we use them wisely.
4
Why is it better to use “On the other hand” in an essay than just starting a new idea?
It signals a contrast, so the reader follows the logic.