Media’s influence on social cohesion has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately 3-4 times annually in various forms. Similar to the role of sports in building international relations, this topic tests candidates’ ability to analyze mass communication’s impact on society.
Task Analysis
Some people believe that the media (newspapers, television, social media) plays a crucial role in promoting unity among different communities within a society. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
This question requires evaluating media’s effectiveness in fostering social cohesion. Like The role of volunteer organizations in community support, candidates must assess how institutions influence social dynamics.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
Mass media undoubtedly plays a pivotal role in bridging divides between diverse communities, and I strongly agree that it serves as a powerful tool for promoting social unity. This essay will examine how different forms of media contribute to social cohesion through various mechanisms.
Firstly, mainstream media platforms can effectively showcase cultural diversity and promote mutual understanding. When television programs and newspapers feature stories about different ethnic traditions, religious festivals, or community celebrations, they help educate the broader public about various cultural practices. This exposure, similar to Strategies for promoting racial equality, helps dispel misconceptions and builds appreciation for diversity.
Moreover, social media has revolutionized how communities interact and share experiences. Through platforms like Facebook and Twitter, people from different backgrounds can engage in direct dialogue, share perspectives, and find common ground on various issues. This digital interaction breaks down traditional barriers and fosters a sense of shared community, much like how the role of governments in promoting digital literacy enables broader social participation.
Social media platforms enabling cross-cultural dialogue
However, responsible journalism and content creation are crucial for media to effectively promote unity. When media outlets prioritize sensational stories or biased reporting, they can inadvertently exacerbate social divisions. Therefore, maintaining high journalistic standards and ethical reporting practices is essential for media to fulfill its unifying role.
In conclusion, while media’s potential for promoting unity is significant, this potential can only be realized through responsible reporting and inclusive content creation. The media’s role in fostering social cohesion will likely become even more crucial as societies continue to diversify.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
I agree that media plays an important role in promoting unity in society. There are several ways how media helps bring people together.
First, media shows different cultures and communities to people. When people watch TV programs about other cultures, they learn new things about them. This helps people understand each other better. For example, when newspapers write about religious festivals, people learn about different religions.
Also, social media helps people connect with others. People can make friends from different communities on Facebook and Instagram. They can share their ideas and learn from each other. This makes people feel more connected.
But sometimes media can create problems. If news channels show wrong information, it can make people fight with each other. So media should be careful about what they show.
In conclusion, I think media is very important for unity in society, but it must be used carefully. If media shows good things about different communities, it can help make society better.
Band Score Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Task Response (9): Comprehensive development of ideas with clear position
- Coherence and Cohesion (8): Logical organization with effective linking
- Lexical Resource (8): Sophisticated vocabulary with natural usage
- Grammar (9): Wide range of structures used accurately
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Task Response (6): Basic address of all parts of the task
- Coherence and Cohesion (6): Clear overall progression but simple linking
- Lexical Resource (7): Adequate vocabulary with some repetition
- Grammar (7): Mix of simple and complex structures with some errors
Key Vocabulary
- social cohesion (n) /ˈsəʊʃəl kəʊˈhiːʒən/ – unity between social groups
- mainstream media (n) /ˈmeɪnstriːm ˈmiːdiə/ – traditional mass communication channels
- cultural diversity (n) /ˈkʌltʃərəl daɪˈvɜːsɪti/ – variety of different cultures
- sensational (adj) /senˈseɪʃənl/ – causing great public interest and excitement
- exacerbate (v) /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ – make worse
- ethical reporting (n) /ˈeθɪkəl rɪˈpɔːtɪŋ/ – honest and moral news coverage
Future essay topics might explore media’s role in:
- Environmental awareness
- Public health communication
- Educational access
- Cultural preservation
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share in the comments for feedback!
