The influence of mass media on societal norms and values is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular subject due to its relevance in our increasingly interconnected world. Based on analysis of previous IELTS exams, we’ve identified a common question type related to this theme:
Some people think that the main purpose of television should be to educate and inform. Others believe that television should primarily be a form of entertainment. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Let’s analyze this question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Question Analysis
This question falls under the “discuss both views and give your opinion” category. It requires candidates to:
- Explain the view that TV’s main purpose should be education and information
- Discuss the opposing view that TV should primarily entertain
- Provide a personal opinion on the issue
Key points to consider:
- Balanced discussion of both viewpoints
- Clear personal stance
- Relevant examples to support arguments
- Logical structure and coherent paragraphs
- Appropriate use of linking words
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Television has become an integral part of modern life, sparking debates about its primary purpose. While some argue that TV should focus on education and information, others believe entertainment should be its main goal. In my opinion, a balance between these functions is crucial for television to serve society effectively.
Those who advocate for TV as an educational tool argue that it has unparalleled reach and influence. Television can bring knowledge and awareness to millions of viewers simultaneously, making it an excellent medium for disseminating important information. Educational programs, documentaries, and news broadcasts can inform the public about crucial issues, scientific discoveries, and cultural events. This view holds that television has a responsibility to elevate public discourse and contribute to a more informed society.
Television's Impact on Education
On the other hand, proponents of entertainment-focused television argue that its primary role should be to provide relaxation and enjoyment. After long, stressful days, many people turn to TV for escapism and leisure. Entertainment programs, including dramas, comedies, and reality shows, offer a way to unwind and temporarily forget daily pressures. This perspective suggests that television’s ability to entertain is valuable in itself, contributing to people’s mental well-being and quality of life.
Television as Entertainment and Relaxation
In my view, the ideal approach is to strike a balance between education and entertainment. Television has the unique capacity to blend these elements, making learning engaging and entertaining content thought-provoking. Educational content can be presented in captivating formats, while entertainment programs can subtly incorporate informative elements. This synergy can create programming that is both enriching and enjoyable, catering to diverse audience needs and preferences.
Moreover, the distinction between education and entertainment is not always clear-cut. Many programs, such as historical dramas or science fiction shows, can both entertain and inform. By embracing this dual role, television can maximize its positive impact on society, fostering both intellectual growth and emotional well-being.
In conclusion, while arguments exist for prioritizing either education or entertainment in television programming, I believe the most effective approach is to combine these elements. By doing so, television can fulfill its potential as a powerful medium that not only informs and educates but also provides much-needed entertainment and relaxation in our fast-paced world.
(Word count: 397)
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating a personal opinion. It provides a well-developed response with relevant, extended examples.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “While some argue”, “On the other hand”, “Moreover”).
- Lexical Resource: It uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Key terms are used accurately (e.g., “unparalleled reach”, “disseminating important information”, “elevate public discourse”).
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. It uses complex sentence structures without noticeable errors.
- Development of Ideas: Each paragraph develops a clear central topic, and ideas are extended and supported logically.
This essay would likely score in the Band 8-9 range due to its sophisticated approach to the topic, clear organization, and excellent use of language.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The role of television in society is a topic of debate. Some people think it should mainly educate and inform, while others believe its primary purpose should be entertainment. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support TV as an educational tool say it can teach many people at once. Educational programs and documentaries can help viewers learn new things about the world. For example, nature documentaries can teach us about animals and the environment. News programs keep people informed about current events. This view sees TV as a way to make society smarter and more aware.
Examples of Educational Television Programs
On the other hand, many people think TV should focus on entertainment. They argue that people watch TV to relax after work or school. Entertainment shows like comedies or dramas help people forget their problems for a while. This can be good for mental health and stress relief. Supporters of this view believe that the main job of TV is to make people happy and give them a break from daily life.
In my opinion, television should try to do both things. I think it’s possible to make shows that are both educational and entertaining. For instance, some historical dramas teach about the past while also being exciting to watch. The influence of mass media on cultural norms can be significant, so it’s important for TV to provide a mix of content. By combining education and entertainment, TV can appeal to different types of viewers and serve multiple purposes.
In conclusion, while some people prefer educational TV and others want more entertainment, I believe a balance between the two is best. Television has the power to both inform and entertain, and by doing both, it can have a positive impact on society.
(Word count: 298)
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates good competence in several areas:
- Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and providing a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear overall progression. It uses some cohesive devices, though not always with complete flexibility.
- Lexical Resource: It uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task. There are attempts to use less common vocabulary (e.g., “documentaries”, “current events”), though with occasional inaccuracy.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. There are some errors, but they do not impede communication.
- Development of Ideas: Each paragraph has a clear central topic, though the support and extension of ideas are sometimes limited.
This essay would likely score in the Band 6-7 range. It demonstrates a good understanding of the task and communicates ideas clearly, but lacks the sophistication and depth of a higher band score essay.
Key Vocabulary
- Integral (adjective) – /ɪnˈteɡrəl/ – necessary and important as a part of a whole
- Unparalleled (adjective) – /ʌnˈpærəleld/ – having no equal; better or greater than any other
- Disseminate (verb) – /dɪˈsemɪneɪt/ – to spread information, knowledge, etc. so that it reaches many people
- Elevate (verb) – /ˈelɪveɪt/ – to raise or lift something up; to improve the quality of something
- Escapism (noun) – /ɪˈskeɪpɪzəm/ – the tendency to seek distraction from unpleasant realities
- Synergy (noun) – /ˈsɪnədʒi/ – the interaction of two or more agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects
- Captivating (adjective) – /ˈkæptɪveɪtɪŋ/ – capable of attracting and holding interest; charming
- Discourse (noun) – /ˈdɪskɔːs/ – written or spoken communication or debate
- Enriching (adjective) – /ɪnˈrɪtʃɪŋ/ – making someone wealthier or more knowledgeable
- Fast-paced (adjective) – /fɑːst peɪst/ – moving or happening very quickly
These vocabulary items can help elevate your writing and demonstrate a sophisticated command of English in your IELTS essays.
The Influence of Pop Culture on Societal Norms
The influence of pop culture on societal norms is closely related to the topic of mass media’s influence. As you prepare for your IELTS exam, consider how television and other forms of media shape our cultural values and behaviors. Practice writing essays on similar topics, such as the impact of social media on communication or the role of newspapers in modern society.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice. Try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS exam.