Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: The Importance of Trustworthy Journalism (Sample Essays for Band 6-7 and 8-9)

In recent years, the topic of trustworthy journalism has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 prompts. This trend reflects the growing global concern about the reliability of news sources and the impact of misinformation on society. Based on an analysis of past IELTS exams and current affairs, it’s highly likely that this theme will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams and provide sample essays to help you tackle this topic effectively.

Analyzing the Question

Some people say that the main purpose of newspapers is to report local and international news. Others believe that newspapers should also provide entertainment such as comics. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question relates to the importance of trustworthy journalism by asking test-takers to consider the primary role of newspapers. It requires you to:

1. Discuss the view that newspapers should focus on reporting news
2. Discuss the view that newspapers should also provide entertainment
3. Give your own opinion on the matter

Remember to address all parts of the question in your response.

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Here’s a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:

In today’s digital age, the role of newspapers has become a topic of debate. While some argue that newspapers should strictly focus on reporting news, others believe they should also include entertainment content. This essay will discuss both viewpoints and provide my personal opinion on the matter.

On one hand, many people believe that the primary purpose of newspapers is to inform the public about current events. This perspective emphasizes the importance of journalism in providing accurate and timely information about local and international news. By focusing solely on news reporting, newspapers can maintain their credibility and fulfill their role as a reliable source of information. This is particularly crucial in an era where misinformation can spread rapidly through social media and other online platforms.

On the other hand, there are those who argue that newspapers should also offer entertainment content such as comics, puzzles, and lifestyle articles. Proponents of this view suggest that including a variety of content can attract a wider readership and make newspapers more appealing to different demographics. Additionally, they argue that entertainment sections can provide a balance to the often serious nature of news stories, offering readers a moment of respite from current affairs.

In my opinion, while the primary focus of newspapers should be on reporting news, there is value in including some entertainment content. I believe that a well-balanced newspaper can effectively serve both purposes without compromising its journalistic integrity. By dedicating the majority of its content to news reporting, a newspaper can maintain its role as a trustworthy source of information. At the same time, including a limited amount of entertainment can make the publication more engaging and accessible to a broader audience.

In conclusion, newspapers play a vital role in society by providing information and shaping public opinion. While their main purpose should be to report news, incorporating some entertainment content can enhance their appeal without undermining their credibility. Ultimately, striking a balance between these two aspects can help newspapers remain relevant and valuable in the modern media landscape.

(Word count: 313)

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Now, let’s look at a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:

The role of newspapers in society has long been a subject of debate, particularly in light of changing media consumption habits and the rise of digital platforms. While some argue that newspapers should exclusively focus on reporting local and international news, others contend that they should also incorporate entertainment elements such as comics. This essay will examine both perspectives and offer a nuanced view on the matter.

Proponents of a news-centric approach argue that the fundamental purpose of newspapers is to inform the public about current events and issues of significance. This viewpoint emphasizes the critical role that journalism plays in maintaining an informed citizenry, which is essential for a functioning democracy. By concentrating solely on news reporting, newspapers can dedicate their resources to in-depth investigative journalism, comprehensive coverage of complex issues, and timely updates on breaking stories. This focus allows them to serve as a reliable source of information in an era where misinformation and “fake news” are prevalent concerns.

Conversely, those who advocate for the inclusion of entertainment content in newspapers argue that this approach can broaden readership and enhance the overall appeal of the publication. They contend that features such as comics, puzzles, and lifestyle articles can provide a much-needed respite from the often-grim nature of news stories, thereby creating a more balanced reading experience. Moreover, entertainment sections can serve as a gateway to attract younger readers or those who might otherwise be disinclined to engage with traditional news formats, potentially fostering a lifelong habit of newspaper readership.

In my view, while the primary function of newspapers should undoubtedly be to report news, there is merit in incorporating a judicious amount of entertainment content. A well-curated balance between informative journalism and lighter fare can enhance the newspaper’s appeal without compromising its integrity or core mission. This approach recognizes that readers are multifaceted individuals with diverse interests and varying capacities for consuming serious news content. By offering a mix of hard-hitting journalism alongside more lighthearted features, newspapers can cater to a broader audience while still fulfilling their essential role as purveyors of trustworthy information.

It is crucial, however, that any inclusion of entertainment content does not come at the expense of comprehensive news coverage or investigative reporting. Newspapers must prioritize their resources to ensure that their primary function – informing the public – is not diluted. This can be achieved by maintaining a clear delineation between news and entertainment sections, and by allocating the majority of space and resources to serious journalism.

In conclusion, while the debate over the role of newspapers continues, it is evident that a balanced approach can serve both the need for trustworthy journalism and the desire for engaging content. By thoughtfully integrating entertainment features alongside robust news reporting, newspapers can remain relevant, appealing, and most importantly, effective in their fundamental mission of keeping the public well-informed in an increasingly complex world.

(Word count: 461)

Trustworthy journalism in newspapers

Key Points to Note When Writing About This Topic

When addressing the importance of trustworthy journalism in your IELTS Writing Task 2 essay, consider the following:

1. Vocabulary: Use a range of vocabulary related to journalism and media. For higher band scores, incorporate more sophisticated terms and phrases.

2. Grammar: Demonstrate your ability to use complex sentence structures and a variety of tenses. For Band 8-9, ensure your writing is error-free and shows a high level of grammatical control.

3. Coherence and Cohesion: Use appropriate linking words and phrases to connect your ideas smoothly. Higher band scores require more sophisticated cohesive devices.

4. Task Response: Fully address all parts of the question and provide a clear, well-developed argument. For Band 8-9, offer nuanced perspectives and a well-supported personal opinion.

5. Critical Thinking: Show depth of analysis and consider multiple perspectives. Higher band scores require more insightful and well-reasoned arguments.

Essential Vocabulary for This Topic

Here are some key terms and phrases that can help you discuss the importance of trustworthy journalism:

1. Credibility (noun) /krɛdəˈbɪləti/ – the quality of being trusted and believed in
2. Misinformation (noun) /mɪsɪnfəˈmeɪʃən/ – false or inaccurate information, especially that which is deliberately intended to deceive
3. Integrity (noun) /ɪnˈtɛɡrəti/ – the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles
4. Impartial (adjective) /ɪmˈpɑːʃəl/ – treating all rivals or disputants equally; fair and unbiased
5. Investigative journalism (noun phrase) /ɪnˈvɛstɪɡətɪv ˈdʒɜːnəlɪzəm/ – a form of journalism in which reporters deeply investigate a single topic of interest
6. Editorial (noun) /ˌɛdɪˈtɔːriəl/ – a newspaper article written by or on behalf of an editor that gives an opinion on a topical issue
7. Objectivity (noun) /ɒbdʒɛkˈtɪvəti/ – the quality of being objective or unbiased in one’s reporting
8. Public opinion (noun phrase) /ˈpʌblɪk əˈpɪnjən/ – the collective view of a significant population on a given topic or issue
9. Media literacy (noun phrase) /ˈmiːdiə ˈlɪtərəsi/ – the ability to identify different types of media and understand the messages they’re sending
10. Fact-checking (noun) /fækt ˈtʃɛkɪŋ/ – the process of verifying the accuracy of reported information

Conclusion

The importance of trustworthy journalism is a crucial topic in today’s media landscape and is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. By understanding the key aspects of this issue and practicing with sample essays, you can improve your ability to address similar prompts effectively.

To further enhance your skills, consider practicing with these related topics:

1. The impact of social media on traditional journalism
2. The role of citizen journalism in the digital age
3. Government regulation of media and its effects on press freedom
4. The challenges of maintaining journalistic integrity in the face of commercial pressures

Remember, the best way to improve your writing skills is through consistent practice. Try writing your own essay on the question provided in this article and share it in the comments section below. This will not only help you refine your skills but also allow you to receive feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.