IELTS WRITING TASK 2
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
News editors decide what to broadcast on television and what to print in newspapers. What factors do you think influence these decisions? Do we become used to bad news? Would it be better if more good news was reported?
You should write at least 250 words.
Use your ideas, knowledge, and experience and support your arguments with examples and relevant evidence.
Source: Cambridge 01 – Test 03
Insight
This IELTS prompt is quite interesting because it’s from an older version, making it more challenging than current prompts. It requires the writer to think critically. The prompt is about how a news editors decide what to broadcast on television and print in newspapers. The question asks, “What factors influence these decisions?” Since “factors” is plural, you need to provide at least two. Additionally, it questions whether we become accustomed to bad news and if it would be better if more good news were reported.
This type of prompt may require a five to six-paragraph essay. Here’s my version:
IELTS Writing – Version 01
Introduction
News outlet editors have the authority to decide what information is broadcast or published. In today’s news climate, their decisions are often influenced by the goal of benefiting the company. This usually means stimulating viewers or sparking controversy to increase engagement and viewership. Advertisers are also a consideration, as higher viewership leads to more advertising revenue.
What factors do you think influence these decisions?
Currently, many media outlets focus less on truth and more on profit. They prioritize content that attracts viewers, such as political discussions, over good news or environmental issues. For example, in the U.S., channels like CNN and Fox News often prioritize political content due to their strong political affiliations and the need to appeal to their audiences. Advertisers also influence these decisions, as they prefer content that generates high viewership.
Do we become used to bad news?
Over time, people have become accustomed to bad news. In the past two to three decades, news like the 6’oclock would focus on negative events, and with the rise of social media, reports of heinous crimes have become so frequent that they no longer shock us. For example, school shootings in the U.S., once a major concern, are now often treated as just another statistic, showing how desensitized we have become to bad news.
Would it be better if more good news was reported?
Reporting more good news might not be beneficial because good news is often seen as ordinary and doesn’t attract as much viewership. This could lead to reduced revenue for news companies and fewer jobs in the industry. Therefore, there is little incentive for news outlets to focus on positive news.
Conclusion
In conclusion, profit and political affiliation often drive media decisions on what to publish. Our constant exposure to bad news has made us accustomed to it, and increasing the amount of good news may not be effective. It may not generate the same level of engagement or revenue.
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