IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Media’s Cultural Impact – Band 6 to Band 9 Examples with Expert Analysis

The topic of media’s influence on culture is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately once every 4-5 months in recent tests. Similar to the effects of celebrity culture on youth behavior, this topic tests candidates’ ability to analyze complex social phenomena.

Sample Question Analysis

Some people think that the media has too much influence on the culture of a society. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

This question requires candidates to:

• Take a clear position on media’s cultural influence
• Support arguments with relevant examples
• Consider multiple perspectives
• Provide a balanced discussion

Band 9 Sample Essay

Media’s profound impact on societal culture is undeniable, and I strongly agree that its influence has become excessive in many ways. This essay will explore how modern media shapes cultural values and behaviors, often to an unprecedented degree.

Firstly, mass media significantly influences cultural norms and values through constant exposure to specific ideologies and lifestyles. For instance, Western media’s widespread reach has led to the adoption of individualistic values in traditionally collectivist Asian societies, fundamentally altering family dynamics and social relationships. Much like the role of cultural literacy in global interactions, media serves as a powerful force in cultural transformation.

Moreover, social media platforms have revolutionized how cultural trends spread and evolve. The viral nature of content sharing means that new cultural phenomena can emerge and become globally influential within days, sometimes overshadowing long-standing traditional practices. This rapid cultural transformation, while facilitating global connectivity, often results in the dilution of local cultural identities.

However, media’s influence isn’t entirely negative. Similar to role of positive body image in media, modern media platforms can promote cultural diversity and understanding. They provide platforms for marginalized voices and help preserve endangered cultural practices through documentation and sharing.

In conclusion, while media’s substantial influence on culture presents both opportunities and challenges, its current level of impact indeed appears excessive and warrants careful consideration of how societies can maintain cultural authenticity while benefiting from media’s connecting power.

The intersection of social media and cultural transformation

Band 7 Sample Essay

I agree that media has significant influence over society’s culture, as it shapes people’s thoughts and behaviors in many ways.

The media affects culture through various channels. TV shows and movies promote certain lifestyles and values that people often try to copy. For example, Korean dramas have influenced fashion and beauty standards across Asia, changing how young people dress and behave. Social media also spreads new trends quickly, making them part of daily culture.

Additionally, news media shapes public opinion about cultural issues. They decide which stories to highlight and how to present them, affecting what society considers important. This power can sometimes lead to biased views about different cultures and traditions.

However, media’s influence isn’t always harmful. It helps preserve cultural heritage by documenting traditions and sharing them widely. It also connects people from different backgrounds, promoting cultural exchange and understanding.

In conclusion, while media significantly influences culture, this impact has both positive and negative aspects that need to be carefully considered.

Key Vocabulary

1. profound (adj.) /prəˈfaʊnd/ – very great or intense
2. unprecedented (adj.) /ʌnˈpresɪdentɪd/ – never known or done before
3. dilution (n.) /daɪˈluːʃn/ – the process of making something weaker
4. marginalized (adj.) /ˈmɑːdʒɪnəlaɪzd/ – treated as insignificant
5. authenticity (n.) /ɔːθenˈtɪsɪti/ – the quality of being genuine
6. heritage (n.) /ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – valued objects and qualities from the past
7. biased (adj.) /ˈbaɪəst/ – unfairly prejudiced for or against something

Practice Suggestions

Consider writing essays on these related topics:

1. The impact of social media on traditional cultural practices
2. The role of digital media in preserving cultural heritage
3. Media’s influence on language and communication patterns

Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.