Question: Some people think that newspapers are the best way to learn news. However, others believe that they can learn news better through other media. Discuss both views and give your opinion. (Test Date: 19/1/19)
Band 8+ Sample Answer:
(Intro) While some people consider newspapers as the optimal means of disseminating news, others claim that there are better ways of keeping them up-to-date with current affairs. I tend to agree with the latter viewpoint as other media can deliver faster news, simultaneous with events.
(Body 1) People who are in favour of newspapers point to the accurate and investigative articles that are written in broadsheets. With the process of careful editing, articles in the newspapers can provide genuine news with a profound look about most topical political as well as socio-economic stories. This can be evidenced by the fact that newspapers such as the New York Times or the Washington Post are still publishing millions of copies of their publications every week, as well as huge numbers of global visitors to their online portals.
(Body 2) However, it can be argued that TV and radio can be better sources of news when considering the need for a fast and convenient means of keeping up to date. Firstly, televised news programmes broadcast and upload the latest stories virtually simultaneously with the event compared to daily or weekly publications of newspapers. For example, the live broadcasting of the British Royal weddings on TV attract enormous viewers all over the world. Secondly, people can get their news while driving, by listening to news on the radio. This is especially useful for commuters who may have to spend long periods stuck in traffic.
(Conclusion) In conclusion, although newspapers can provide quality journalism with carefully edited articles and informative in-depth editorials, these features cannot satisfy the demand for speedy sources of news and convenience in getting news that other media like TV and radio offer. To improve the quality of news as well as drawing more public attention, journalists and respondents should put more emphasis on analysing and providing a more insightful look into current affairs. (306 words).
Words: Student essay, corrected & upgraded by Nick Kemp, former IELTS examiner.
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