Crime and entertainment themes frequently appear in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly regarding their societal impact. Based on past exam analysis, questions about crime novels and TV series have appeared roughly 2-3 times annually since 2019, making it a moderately common topic.
Analysis of Task 2 Question
Crime novels and TV series are very popular. Why do you think people enjoy them so much? Do you think this type of entertainment influences people’s behavior? Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your knowledge or experience.
This question has two parts:
- Explain why crime-related entertainment is popular
- Discuss its potential influence on behavior
Popular crime novels and TV series displayed on bookshelf and screen
Band 8 Sample Essay
In recent decades, crime-related entertainment has gained immense popularity across various media platforms. This essay will explore the reasons behind this phenomenon and examine its potential impact on society.
The widespread appeal of crime novels and TV series can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, these works tap into people’s natural curiosity about the darker aspects of human nature, providing a safe way to explore dangerous situations from a comfortable distance. Additionally, crime stories typically feature complex puzzles and mysteries that challenge viewers’ analytical skills, making them intellectually engaging. The satisfaction of solving these mysteries alongside detectives creates a compelling interactive experience that keeps audiences hooked.
Regarding behavioral influence, I believe that crime-focused entertainment can have both positive and negative effects on society. On the positive side, these works often demonstrate the consequences of criminal actions and reinforce moral values, as justice usually prevails in the end. However, there are legitimate concerns about potential negative impacts, particularly when shows glorify criminal behavior or provide detailed information about criminal techniques. Studies have shown that some individuals, especially younger viewers, might be influenced by the dramatic portrayal of crime.
In my opinion, while crime entertainment can potentially affect behavior, its influence largely depends on individual viewers’ critical thinking abilities and moral foundations. Most people can distinguish between fiction and reality, treating these shows purely as entertainment rather than behavioral guides.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Crime novels and TV series have become very popular today. I will discuss why people like them and if they affect people’s behavior.
There are many reasons why people enjoy crime stories. One reason is that they are exciting and make people feel nervous about what will happen next. Also, people like to try and guess who the criminal is before the end of the story. Some people watch these shows because they want to learn about police work and how crimes are solved.
I think these shows can influence people’s behavior in different ways. Sometimes they might make people more careful about their safety because they learn about different crimes. But these shows might also give some people bad ideas about doing crimes. Young people especially might copy what they see on TV.
However, most people know that these shows are just for entertainment. They don’t take them too seriously and can separate real life from TV shows. The police in real life don’t always solve crimes as quickly as they do on TV.
Vocabulary Analysis
- tap into (phrasal verb) /tæp ˈɪn/ – to understand and express something such as people’s beliefs or attitudes
- analytical skills (n) /ˌænəˈlɪtɪkəl skɪlz/ – abilities to examine things in detail
- glorify (v) /ˈɡlɔːrɪfaɪ/ – to make something seem better or more important than it really is
- compelling (adj) /kəmˈpelɪŋ/ – extremely interesting and exciting
- reinforce (v) /ˌriːɪnˈfɔːs/ – to make something stronger or more effective
Conclusion
The popularity of crime-related entertainment presents an interesting topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. Similar topics you might encounter could include:
- The impact of violent video games on society
- The role of true crime documentaries in modern media
- The relationship between media violence and real-world behavior
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback. Remember to structure your response clearly and support your arguments with relevant examples.
