In recent years, questions about media diversity and representation have become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exam papers, this topic has appeared in various forms, particularly focusing on the responsibilities of media organizations and governments in ensuring diverse representation. Let’s examine one common question type:
Some people believe that media organizations have a responsibility to ensure diversity in their content and staff. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Diverse group of journalists working in modern newsroom
Question Analysis
This question focuses on organizational responsibility in promoting media diversity. Key areas to address include:
- Definition of media diversity and representation
- Role of media organizations
- Benefits and challenges of implementing diversity initiatives
- Potential impact on society
Sample Essays
Band 8.5 Essay (290 words)
Media organizations’ role in promoting diversity has become a crucial topic of discussion in our increasingly multicultural society. I strongly agree that these organizations have a fundamental responsibility to ensure diversity in both their content and workforce.
Firstly, diverse media representation helps create a more inclusive society. When people see themselves reflected in news coverage, entertainment programs, and advertising, it validates their experiences and promotes social cohesion. For instance, when Asian representation increased in Hollywood films like “Crazy Rich Asians” and “Shang-Chi,” it not only provided entertainment but also helped break long-standing stereotypes and inspired Asian youth worldwide.
Moreover, diverse staffing in media organizations leads to more comprehensive and nuanced reporting. Journalists from different backgrounds bring unique perspectives and cultural understanding, enabling more accurate coverage of various communities. A newsroom comprising people from various ethnicities, socioeconomic backgrounds, and gender identities is better equipped to identify and report on issues affecting different segments of society.
Furthermore, media diversity has significant economic benefits. Organizations that embrace diversity can better understand and serve diverse audience segments, potentially expanding their market reach. For example, Spanish-language media networks in the United States have experienced substantial growth by catering to the Hispanic population.
However, implementing diversity initiatives requires systematic effort and commitment. Media organizations must actively recruit diverse talent, provide equal opportunities for advancement, and establish inclusive editorial policies. They should also regularly audit their content to ensure balanced representation of different communities.
In conclusion, media organizations have both a moral and practical obligation to promote diversity. Their efforts in this direction not only contribute to social justice but also enhance the quality of media content and their business success.
Media professionals creating inclusive content
Band 6.5 Essay (275 words)
I agree that media organizations should be responsible for ensuring diversity in their content and staff because it is important for society.
First, when media shows different kinds of people, it helps everyone feel included. For example, when TV shows have actors from different backgrounds, children can see people like themselves on screen. This makes them feel good about themselves. Also, when news programs talk about different communities, people learn more about each other.
Second, having diverse staff helps media companies make better content. When journalists come from different backgrounds, they can write better stories about their communities. They understand the culture and problems better than outsiders. For example, a female reporter might understand women’s issues better, and a reporter from a minority community can explain their community’s concerns better.
However, some media companies find it hard to be diverse. They say it is difficult to find qualified people from different backgrounds. Sometimes they also worry about losing their traditional audience if they change too much. But these are not good excuses because there are many qualified people from different backgrounds who can do the job well.
Media organizations can take some steps to improve diversity. They can:
- Hire more people from different backgrounds
- Train their staff about diversity
- Make sure their stories cover different communities
- Listen to feedback from different groups
In conclusion, I think media organizations must take responsibility for diversity. It helps society become more understanding and inclusive. While there may be challenges, the benefits of diverse media are more important.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response (9): Fully addresses all parts of the task with well-developed ideas
- Coherence and Cohesion (8): Logical organization with clear progression
- Lexical Resource (8): Wide range of vocabulary used naturally
- Grammar (9): Various complex structures used accurately
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response (7): Addresses the task but with less sophistication
- Coherence and Cohesion (6): Basic organization with some inconsistencies
- Lexical Resource (6): Adequate vocabulary with some repetition
- Grammar (7): Mix of simple and complex sentences with some errors
Key Vocabulary
- diversity (n) /daɪˈvɜːsəti/ – variety, especially in race, culture, or gender
- representation (n) /ˌreprɪzenˈteɪʃn/ – the portrayal or description of someone/something
- inclusive (adj) /ɪnˈkluːsɪv/ – not excluding any section of society
- nuanced (adj) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle differences
- systematic (adj) /ˌsɪstəˈmætɪk/ – done according to a fixed plan or system
For practice, try writing your own essay about how digital media platforms can promote diversity in content creation and sharing your work in the comments section.
