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Get a Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer on the language of media topic with full rubric breakdown, vocabulary, and expert scoring analysis.
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Get a Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer on the language of media topic with full rubric breakdown, vocabulary, and expert scoring analysis.
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"Some people argue that the language used by the mass media has become too informal. Others believe that using everyday language makes news and information more accessible. Discuss both views and give your opinion."
Task Response (7.0): Presents a clear position throughout the response. Presents, extends, and supports main trends, arguments, or ideas, but there may be some unevenness in treatment. Coherence & Cohesion (8.0): Uses cohesion well, though there may be some under- or over-use of cohesive devices. Lexical Resource (7.0): Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow some flexibility and precision. There may be some errors in word choice and collocations. Grammatical Range & Accuracy (8.0): Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms. Makes only occasional errors in grammar and punctuation, but these errors may obscure meaning.
The evolving nature of language used in mass media has sparked considerable debate. While some advocate for more formal language, others contend that informal language enhances accessibility. Both perspectives merit examination.
Proponents of formal language argue that it maintains professionalism and credibility. For instance, traditional news outlets often employ formal language to convey authority. This approach ensures that information is presented in an objective and respectful manner. Moreover, formal language can help avoid misunderstandings, especially in complex matters. However, critics point out that formal language can be exclusionary. Not everyone is familiar with sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures, which can create barriers to understanding.
On the other hand, advocates for informal language highlight its role in making information more accessible. Informal language, which mirrors everyday speech, can make news and information more relatable and engaging. For example, social media platforms and online news sites often use informal language to connect with younger audiences. This approach can also make information more digestible, as it aligns with the way people naturally communicate. Nevertheless, excessive informality can undermine the credibility of the media. It may also lead to a lack of seriousness in conveying important issues.
In my view, a balanced approach is ideal. Formal language should be used when discussing complex or sensitive topics to ensure clarity and respect. However, informal language can be beneficial in casual contexts or when targeting younger audiences. The key is to adapt the language to the audience and the subject matter, ensuring that the information is both accessible and credible.
Task Response (5.0): Presents a position but the arguments are not sufficiently developed or supported. Coherence & Cohesion (6.0): Presents a clear central topic within each paragraph, but there may be some repetition or inconsistency in the use of cohesive devices. Lexical Resource (5.0): Uses a limited range of vocabulary, with some repetition and/or inappropriate word choice. Grammatical Range & Accuracy (6.0): Uses only simple sentence forms and makes frequent grammatical errors that may obscure meaning.
Some people think media language is too informal. Others think it is good because it is easy to understand. I think both sides have good points.
Formal language is important because it shows respect. When news is serious, like about wars or politics, formal language is better. It makes people take the news seriously. Also, formal language is more precise. It helps avoid confusion. For example, legal news uses formal language because it is important to be exact.
But informal language is also good. It makes news more interesting. Young people like informal language. They understand it better. Social media uses informal language. It makes news feel more personal. For example, memes and videos use informal language to make people laugh and pay attention.
In conclusion, both formal and informal language have their uses. Formal language is better for serious news. Informal language is better for fun news. Media should use both depending on the situation.
Task Response (8.0): Presents a clear position throughout the response. Presents, extends, and supports main trends, arguments, or ideas. Coherence & Cohesion (8.0): Uses cohesion well, with a clear progression of ideas and a good use of cohesive devices. Lexical Resource (8.0): Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow flexibility and precision. Uses less common lexical items with some awareness of style and collocation. Grammatical Range & Accuracy (8.0): Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms. Makes only occasional errors in grammar and punctuation, but these errors do not obscure meaning.
The language employed by the mass media has become a contentious issue, with advocates for both formal and informal language presenting compelling arguments. This discourse warrants a nuanced examination.
Those advocating for formal language underscore its role in maintaining professionalism and objectivity. Formal language, with its precise and respectful tone, is particularly suited for conveying complex or sensitive information. For example, during political debates, formal language helps present arguments clearly and respectfully. Additionally, formal language can prevent misinterpretations, ensuring that the intended message is conveyed accurately. However, critics argue that formal language can be alienating. Not everyone is adept at understanding sophisticated vocabulary and intricate sentence structures, which can create barriers to comprehension.
Conversely, proponents of informal language emphasize its accessibility and engagement. Informal language, which mirrors colloquial speech, can make information more relatable and engaging. For instance, online news platforms often use informal language to connect with younger audiences. This approach can also make information more digestible, as it aligns with natural communication patterns. Nevertheless, excessive informality can detract from the media's credibility. It may also trivialise important issues, undermining their significance.
In my view, a balanced approach is optimal. Formal language should be reserved for complex or sensitive topics to ensure clarity and respect. Meanwhile, informal language can be effectively utilised in casual contexts or when targeting younger demographics. The key is to adapt the language to the audience and the subject matter, ensuring that the information is both accessible and credible.
Task Response (9.0): Presents a clear position throughout the response. Presents, extends, and supports main trends, arguments, or ideas with fully developed arguments and relevant, clear examples. Coherence & Cohesion (9.0): Uses cohesion skillfully, with a clear progression of ideas and a good use of cohesive devices. Paragraphing is logical and well-structured. Lexical Resource (9.0): Uses a wide range of vocabulary with great flexibility and precision. Uses less common lexical items skilfully, with full awareness of style and collocation. Grammatical Range & Accuracy (9.0): Uses a wide range of complex sentence forms with frequent error-free sentences. Errors, if any, are so well camouflaged that they do not impede communication.
The language employed by the mass media has evolved significantly, sparking a lively debate about its appropriateness. While some champion the use of formal language, others advocate for the benefits of informality. Both perspectives merit a thorough examination.
Advocates for formal language contend that it upholds professionalism and objectivity. Formal language, characterised by its precise and respectful tone, is particularly suited for conveying complex or sensitive information. For example, during economic analyses, formal language helps present data clearly and respectfully. Additionally, formal language can prevent misinterpretations, ensuring that the intended message is conveyed accurately. However, critics argue that formal language can be exclusionary. Not everyone is adept at understanding sophisticated vocabulary and intricate sentence structures, which can create barriers to comprehension.
Conversely, proponents of informal language emphasize its accessibility and engagement. Informal language, which mirrors colloquial speech, can make information more relatable and engaging. For instance, entertainment news platforms often use informal language to connect with younger audiences. This approach can also make information more digestible, as it aligns with natural communication patterns. Nevertheless, excessive informality can detract from the media's credibility. It may also trivialise important issues, undermining their significance.
In my view, a balanced approach is optimal. Formal language should be reserved for complex or sensitive topics to ensure clarity and respect. Meanwhile, informal language can be effectively utilised in casual contexts or when targeting younger demographics. The key is to adapt the language to the audience and the subject matter, ensuring that the information is both accessible and credible.
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