The impact of streaming platforms on cable television has become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This theme reflects the evolving media landscape and its societal implications, making it a relevant and engaging subject for test-takers. Based on recent trends, we can expect this topic to appear more frequently in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a sample question and multiple essay responses to help you prepare for this potential task.
5. The effects of online streaming services on the entertainment industry.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:
In recent years, streaming platforms have become increasingly popular, leading to a decline in traditional cable television viewership. Some people believe this shift is beneficial for consumers, while others argue it has negative consequences.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the advantages of streaming platforms for consumers
- Explore the potential negative consequences of this shift
- Provide your personal opinion on the matter
Now, let’s look at three sample essays of varying quality, targeting different band scores.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The rise of streaming platforms has dramatically transformed the television landscape, sparking debates about its impact on consumers and the industry. While some herald this shift as a positive development, others express concerns about its potential drawbacks. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of streaming services argue that they offer numerous benefits to consumers. Firstly, these platforms provide unprecedented flexibility, allowing viewers to watch content on-demand, at their convenience, and across multiple devices. This freedom stands in stark contrast to the rigid scheduling of traditional cable TV. Moreover, streaming services often offer a vast library of content at a fraction of the cost of cable subscriptions, making quality entertainment more accessible to a broader audience. The absence of commercial interruptions on many platforms also enhances the viewing experience.
However, critics raise valid concerns about the negative consequences of this transition. One significant issue is the potential for information silos and echo chambers, as algorithms tailor content recommendations based on viewing history, potentially limiting exposure to diverse perspectives. Additionally, the proliferation of streaming services may lead to fragmentation, forcing consumers to subscribe to multiple platforms to access desired content, potentially negating the cost benefits. There are also concerns about the impact on local programming and news coverage, which traditionally relied on cable TV distribution.
In my opinion, while the shift towards streaming platforms presents challenges, the benefits to consumers outweigh the drawbacks. The increased choice, flexibility, and value offered by streaming services represent a significant improvement in the consumer experience. However, I believe it is crucial for regulators and industry players to address concerns about content diversity and accessibility to ensure a healthy media ecosystem.
In conclusion, the rise of streaming platforms has undoubtedly disrupted the television industry, bringing both advantages and potential pitfalls. As this technology continues to evolve, it is essential to harness its benefits while mitigating its negative impacts to create a more dynamic and consumer-friendly entertainment landscape.
(Word count: 309)
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic, warranting a high band score of 8-9. Here’s why:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting the writer’s opinion. It provides a well-developed response with relevant, extended examples.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. It uses cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “Firstly,” “Moreover,” “However”) and maintains a clear central topic in each paragraph.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is sophisticated and precise (e.g., “unprecedented flexibility,” “information silos,” “echo chambers”). The essay demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. It demonstrates consistent control of complex sentences, with error-free usage.
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Development of Ideas: Each point is well-elaborated with clear reasoning and relevant examples, showing depth of critical thinking.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In recent years, streaming platforms have become very popular, and many people are moving away from traditional cable TV. This change has both good and bad effects, which I will discuss in this essay.
On the positive side, streaming platforms offer many advantages to viewers. They allow people to watch what they want, when they want, which is very convenient. For example, someone can watch their favorite show after work instead of having to follow a TV schedule. Also, many streaming services are cheaper than cable TV packages, making them more affordable for many people. This means more people can access a wide range of entertainment options.
However, there are also some negative aspects to this trend. One problem is that people might spend too much time watching TV because it’s so easy to access. This could lead to less social interaction or neglect of other important activities. Another issue is that older people who are not comfortable with technology might find it difficult to use streaming services, which could exclude them from popular culture.
In my opinion, while there are some drawbacks, the benefits of streaming platforms outweigh the negatives. The flexibility and affordability they offer are significant improvements over traditional cable TV. However, I think it’s important for people to use these services responsibly and for companies to make their platforms user-friendly for all age groups.
To conclude, the shift from cable TV to streaming platforms has both advantages and disadvantages. As technology continues to advance, it’s likely that streaming will become even more dominant, so it’s important to address any potential issues while enjoying the benefits it brings.
(Word count: 282)
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates good writing skills but lacks some of the sophistication of the higher band score essay. Here’s an analysis of why it would likely receive a Band 6-7:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and presenting the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed with more specific examples.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses some cohesive devices, but they are not as varied or sophisticated as in the higher band essay.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, with some attempts at less common words. However, it lacks the precision and sophistication of the Band 8-9 essay.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are no major errors, but it doesn’t demonstrate the full flexibility seen in higher band scores.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported, but the level of detail and critical analysis is not as deep as in the higher band essay.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Nowadays, many people like to use streaming platforms instead of cable TV. This has good and bad points, which I will talk about in this essay.
Streaming platforms are good because they let people watch TV shows and movies anytime they want. This is very convenient for busy people. Also, some streaming services are cheaper than cable TV, so people can save money. For example, my friend cancelled his cable TV and now uses Netflix, and he says it’s much better.
But there are also some problems with streaming. Sometimes the internet connection is not good, so the video quality is poor. This can be very annoying. Another problem is that some people might watch too much TV because it’s so easy to access. This could be bad for their health.
I think streaming platforms are mostly good because they give people more choice and freedom. But I also think people should be careful not to watch too much TV and should do other activities too.
In conclusion, streaming platforms have both good and bad points. I believe they are better than cable TV, but people should use them wisely.
(Word count: 187)
Essay Analysis (Band 5-6)
This essay demonstrates an adequate attempt at the task but falls short in several areas, likely resulting in a Band 5-6 score:
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Task Response: The essay addresses the task, discussing both views and giving an opinion. However, the response is underdeveloped, lacking in-depth discussion and specific examples.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a basic structure, but the ideas are not always well-connected. Cohesive devices are limited and sometimes repetitive (e.g., overuse of “also” and “but”).
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is limited and repetitive, with frequent use of simple words and phrases. There are few attempts at using less common vocabulary.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay primarily uses simple sentence structures with limited variety. While there are no major errors, it lacks the complexity expected at higher band scores.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are present but not fully elaborated. The essay provides some relevant points but lacks the depth and critical analysis seen in higher band responses.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Streaming platforms (noun) – /ˈstriːmɪŋ ˈplætfɔːmz/ – Online services that provide on-demand access to video content
- Cable television (noun) – /ˈkeɪbl ˈtelɪvɪʒn/ – Traditional TV service delivered through coaxial cables
- On-demand (adjective) – /ɒn dɪˈmænd/ – Available whenever requested by the user
- Viewership (noun) – /ˈvjuːəʃɪp/ – The number of viewers of a television program or channel
- Fragmentation (noun) – /ˌfræɡmənˈteɪʃn/ – The process of breaking into separate parts or sections
- Algorithm (noun) – /ˈælɡərɪðəm/ – A set of rules followed by computers to solve problems or make decisions
- Subscription (noun) – /səbˈskrɪpʃn/ – An arrangement to receive a product or service regularly by paying in advance
- Content library (noun) – /ˈkɒntent ˈlaɪbrəri/ – A collection of available shows, movies, and other media on a streaming platform
- Binge-watching (verb) – /bɪndʒ ˈwɒtʃɪŋ/ – The practice of watching multiple episodes of a TV show in rapid succession
- Cord-cutting (noun) – /kɔːd ˈkʌtɪŋ/ – The practice of canceling cable or satellite TV subscriptions in favor of streaming services
Conclusion
The impact of streaming platforms on cable television is a rich topic for IELTS Writing Task 2 essays, offering numerous angles for discussion. As you prepare for your IELTS exam, consider practicing with similar topics that explore technological changes and their societal impacts. Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide specific examples to support your arguments.
To further enhance your writing skills, try composing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your ideas and receive valuable feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.