The topic of e-sports has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms since 2019. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this topic frequently emerges in questions about technology, youth activities, and modern entertainment. Let’s examine a recent exam question that perfectly captures this trending subject.
Nội dung bài viết
Question Analysis
Some people believe that competitive video gaming (e-sports) should be considered a legitimate sport and included in major sporting events like the Olympics. Others argue that video games cannot be classified as real sports. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss multiple perspectives on e-sports as a legitimate sport
- Present arguments for and against its inclusion in major sporting events
- Provide a personal stance with supporting evidence
Professional esports tournament with large audience and players competing on stage
Band 9 Sample Essay
The legitimacy of e-sports as a competitive sport has sparked intense debate in recent years. While some advocate for its inclusion in traditional sporting events, others maintain that video gaming lacks the physical elements inherent to conventional sports. In my view, while e-sports possesses many characteristics of traditional sports, it should develop independently rather than being incorporated into existing sporting frameworks.
Traditional sports proponents argue that e-sports lacks the physical exertion and athleticism that define conventional sports. They emphasize that sitting at a computer cannot compare to the physical demands of activities like football or basketball. Moreover, they contend that the virtual nature of video gaming diminishes the raw, physical human element that makes traditional sports compelling.
However, competitive gaming advocates highlight that e-sports requires exceptional hand-eye coordination, strategic thinking, and mental endurance. Professional gamers train rigorously, often practicing 8-12 hours daily to maintain peak performance. Additionally, major e-sports tournaments draw millions of viewers and offer substantial prize pools, demonstrating their legitimate competitive nature. The industry has developed sophisticated training programs, professional leagues, and governing bodies, mirroring traditional sports infrastructure.
Professional esports athletes practicing in team facility
From my perspective, while e-sports shares many characteristics with traditional sports, including competitiveness, skill requirements, and professional structure, it should forge its own path rather than seeking validation through Olympic inclusion. The unique digital nature of e-sports presents opportunities for innovation in competition formats and viewer engagement that might be constrained by traditional sporting frameworks. Furthermore, maintaining independence allows e-sports to evolve naturally alongside technological advancements.
In conclusion, although e-sports possesses legitimate competitive elements, its development would be better served by establishing its own prestigious events rather than seeking inclusion in traditional sporting competitions. This approach would allow both traditional sports and e-sports to thrive in their respective domains while maintaining their unique characteristics.
Key Vocabulary
- legitimacy (n) /lɪˈdʒɪt.ə.mə.si/ – the quality of being legal or acceptable
- proponents (n) /prəˈpəʊ.nənts/ – people who support or promote something
- athleticism (n) /æθˈlet.ɪ.sɪ.zəm/ – physical strength and ability in sports
- endurance (n) /ɪnˈdjʊə.rəns/ – the ability to continue doing something difficult
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪn.frəˌstrʌk.tʃər/ – basic systems and facilities
Advanced Sentence Structures
- Complex Conditional: “While e-sports possesses many characteristics of traditional sports, it should develop independently rather than being incorporated into existing sporting frameworks.”
- Parallel Structure: “The industry has developed sophisticated training programs, professional leagues, and governing bodies.”
- Complex-Compound: “Professional gamers train rigorously, often practicing 8-12 hours daily to maintain peak performance.”
Practice Exercise
Now it’s your turn! Write your own essay addressing this topic and share it in the comments section. Focus on clear argument structure and use of advanced vocabulary. Remember to maintain a balanced discussion of both perspectives before presenting your own view.
