Media literacy education has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in questions about technology, education, and social impact. Based on analysis of past exam papers and current trends, this topic has appeared in various forms over the past 5 years and is likely to remain relevant given the growing importance of digital media in our lives.
Similar to discussions about Technology’s role in classroom learning?, media literacy education represents a critical intersection of traditional education and modern digital skills.
Students learning media literacy skills in modern classroom
Common IELTS Question Types on Media Literacy
One frequently encountered question type is:
Some people believe that media literacy should be a mandatory subject in schools, while others think traditional subjects are more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Question Analysis
- Topic: Media literacy education in schools
- Task: Discussion + opinion
- Key points to address:
- Arguments for mandatory media literacy education
- Arguments for focusing on traditional subjects
- Personal stance with justification
Sample Essays for Different Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Sample
In today’s digital age, the debate over incorporating media literacy into school curricula has gained significant attention. While some advocate for its mandatory inclusion, others maintain that conventional subjects should take precedence. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
The case for making media literacy compulsory is compelling. In our increasingly digital world, students need to develop critical thinking skills to navigate the vast landscape of online information. As demonstrated in cases of Fake news and media literacy, young people are particularly vulnerable to misinformation. Moreover, understanding how to evaluate media sources and recognize bias has become as essential as traditional literacy skills.
However, proponents of traditional subjects argue that fundamental academic disciplines shouldn’t be displaced. Mathematics, sciences, and languages form the cornerstone of education and cognitive development. These subjects have proven their value over centuries and provide the foundation for advanced learning and career preparation. Furthermore, traditional subjects often incorporate elements of critical thinking that can be applied to media analysis.
In my opinion, media literacy education should be integrated into existing subjects rather than treated as a separate mandatory course. This approach would allow students to develop media literacy skills while maintaining focus on core subjects. For instance, language classes could include analysis of digital media texts, while history courses could examine the evolution of news reporting and Media influence on public opinion: too much?.
In conclusion, while media literacy is undoubtedly important in our digital era, it need not compete with traditional subjects for curriculum space. A balanced approach that weaves media literacy into existing courses would best serve students’ educational needs.
Students critically analyzing online media content
Band 6.5 Essay Sample
Nowadays, many people discuss whether media literacy should be taught in schools as a must-have subject. Some people think it’s very important, but others believe traditional subjects are better. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On one side, media literacy is important because we use the internet and social media every day. Students need to know how to check if information is true or false. Also, they should learn about Cyberbullying and online harassment in schools. This knowledge can help them stay safe online.
However, traditional subjects like math, science, and languages are also very important. These subjects have been taught for many years and help students get good jobs. Some people think schools already have too many subjects and adding media literacy would take time away from these important subjects.
I think media literacy is important but should be taught as part of other subjects. For example, in English class, students can learn about fake news. In computer class, they can learn about internet safety. This way, students learn both traditional subjects and media skills.
To conclude, I believe schools should teach media literacy but not as a separate subject. It’s better to include it in other classes so students can learn everything they need.
Key Vocabulary from Sample Essays
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Media literacy (n) /ˈmiːdiə ˈlɪt.ər.ə.si/
- Definition: The ability to access, analyze, evaluate and create media in various forms
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Curriculum (n) /kəˈrɪk.jə.ləm/
- Definition: The subjects comprising a course of study in a school
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Misinformation (n) /ˌmɪs.ɪn.fəˈmeɪ.ʃən/
- Definition: False or incorrect information, especially that which is deliberately created
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Cognitive development (n) /ˈkɒɡ.nə.tɪv dɪˈvel.əp.mənt/
- Definition: The process of learning and developing mental abilities
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Integration (n) /ˌɪn.tɪˈɡreɪ.ʃən/
- Definition: The act of combining or adding parts to make a unified whole
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments. Future IELTS exams might feature similar questions about digital literacy, online education, or social media’s impact on learning.
