Boundless - Internet Habit

Two secondary students debate this issue below.

Students have lots of homework. Playing online games for a few minutes can help us relax. We can talk about the games at break time too. Parents and teachers can give young people advice to stop them becoming addicted.

Personal information can be stolen online. However, this is uncommon and there is software to protect us from viruses. You keep your wallet safe and you can also keep yourself safe on the Internet.

I can keep in touch with friends in other countries through Facebook and MSN. My friend in New Zealand told me a lot about that country.

I can do research for school projects online. I had a school trip to Singapore and used the Internet to find out about its culture and weather. I also use the Internet to prepare for English lessons.

Students can become addicted to the Internet. Facebook and online games attract young people. They could play for hours. Once a child enters the wonderland, they never want to leave.

It is easier to steal personal information from the Internet. There are many viruses out there which can be picked up from emails and websites. The internet is a treasure island but traps are there too.

Some online information may harm students’ proper growth. They may see harmful messages or unsuitable photos by surfing websites.

Students may study online. However, many of them check their Facebook and MSN accounts while they study. They are easily distracted.

Click on "For teachers" to learn how to debate this issue.

How much should you share online?

Social networking sites like Facebook are very popular. Do you share photos, messages and personal information with your friends on them? It's fun but be careful! Many companies search Facebook before employing someone. A police officer in the UK lost out on promotion because of information he posted on Facebook .

Here are five messages which would not look good.

I hate my teacher. He gives me too much homework.
I was playing online games till 3a.m. last night so took sick leave today.
My new job is much better than my last one. My former boss was stupid!
I don't want to work but my parents are forcing me to get a job.

Don't talk to Chris. He's really annoying!

These messages make the writer seem lazy or rude. Who would want to work with them? Bad language or unsuitable photos also look bad. They may embarrass you later in life.

Have fun on social networking sites but phone your friends if you want to complain. Nobody can search Google to find out what you talked about!

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