IELTS Writing Task 2 Media â Topics, Band 7â9 Sample Answers & Writing Tips
Learn how IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 tests media topics, with Band 7â9 essay structures, key vocabulary, recent questions and Band 9 sample answers.
Expert Level
Native-like proficiency in media topics.
Overview
IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 is an essay question based on a social topic such as media, technology, education or the environment. For media topics, you may write about TV, social media, advertising, online news, data privacy and more.
1. Exam Basics: IELTS Writing Task 2 (Media)
This essay is also known as IELTS Writing part 2 and it carries about twice as many marks as Task 1, so most candidates focus their IELTS writing practice on Task 2.
Key Facts
- Paper: IELTS Academic Writing
- Part: Writing Task 2 (essay)
- Time: ~40 mins of the 60 min exam
- Weighting: ~66% of Writing score
- Task: 250+ word essay response
Typical Media Questions
- Opinion (Agree/Disagree):
e.g. Televising criminal trials does more harm than good.
- Discussion:
e.g. Social media vs face-to-face interaction.
- Problem / Solution:
e.g. Fake news and misinformation online.
- Double Question:
e.g. Why trust celebrities? Positive or negative?
2. High-Scoring Structure for Media Essays (Band 7â9)
2.1 Recommended 4-paragraph structure
A clear structure is essential for a high score in Coherence & Cohesion. This simple 4-paragraph model works well for most IELTS Writing Task 2 media topics.
Introduction
Paraphrase the media topic. State your overall opinion or outline both views.
Body Paragraph 1
First main argument, explained fully with media examples and specific illustrations.
Body Paragraph 2
Second argument or opposing view. Use linking phrases to show contrast or balance.
Conclusion
Summarise key points, restate your position clearly, no new ideas.
2.2 Example outline (opinion â media topic)
Question: Do the advantages of televising criminal trials outweigh the disadvantages?
Introduction: Televised trials are controversial; overall, advantages are greater.
Body 1 â Advantages: Transparency, public trust, and educational value of legal procedures.
Body 2 â Disadvantages: Sensationalism, media bias, and privacy concerns for witnesses.
Conclusion: With strong ethical guidelines, benefits clearly outweigh drawbacks.
3. How Examiners Score IELTS Writing Task 2 Media Essays
IELTS examiners use four official IELTS writing band descriptors for Task 2. High-band examples score strongly in all four areas, especially TR and CC.
Task Response (TR)
Fully answer the question and maintain a clear position. Ideas are relevant and supported by media examples.
Coherence & Cohesion (CC)
Logical organization with clear paragraphs and smooth linking words (however, therefore...).
Lexical Resource (LR)
Precise media vocabulary (sensationalist headlines, data privacy, user-generated content) and avoiding repetition.
Grammatical Range & Accuracy (GRA)
Using a variety of complex sentences to explain causes and effects. Infrequent errors.
4. Essential Vocabulary for Media Essays
4.1 Core media vocabulary
Media Channels & Outlets
- Mass media / mainstream media
- Public broadcaster / News outlets
- Social networking sites
- Online news portals
Content & Impact
- Sensationalist coverage / Click-bait
- User-generated content
- Influencer marketing
- Targeted advertising
4.2 Useful phrases for high-band media answers
âĒ shape public opinion / manipulate audience
âĒ profound impact on behaviour
âĒ spread misinformation / combat fake news
âĒ violate data protection laws
âĒ promote consumerist values
âĒ provide balanced, fact-checked info
5. Band 9 IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer â Media Topic
Question:
In some countries, some criminal trials in the court are shown on the TV and the general public can watch them. Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
In recent years, the practice of televising criminal trials has gained traction in several countries, sparking a debate about its merits and drawbacks. I firmly believe that the advantages of broadcasting these trials outweigh the disadvantages, primarily due to the promotion of transparency, educational benefits, and the potential deterrent effect on crime.
Firstly, televising criminal trials enhances transparency and accountability within the judicial system. By allowing the public to witness court proceedings, the judiciary is held to a higher standard of scrutiny, which can bolster public trust. For instance, in high-profile cases, the public's ability to observe the trial process can dispel doubts about fairness and impartiality, thereby reinforcing confidence in the legal system.
Secondly, broadcasting trials serves an educational purpose by increasing legal awareness among the general populace. Many individuals lack a comprehensive understanding of legal processes and their rights within the judicial system. By watching trials, viewers can gain insights into courtroom procedures, legal terminology, and the intricacies of the law. This heightened awareness can foster a more informed citizenry, capable of engaging with legal issues more effectively.
Moreover, the public exposure of criminal trials can act as a deterrent to potential offenders. When individuals see the consequences of criminal behavior played out in a public forum, they may be dissuaded from engaging in unlawful activities. The visibility of justice being served can reinforce the notion that crime does not pay, thereby contributing to a reduction in criminal activity.
While concerns about sensationalism and the potential for media bias exist, these are outweighed by the significant benefits of transparency, education, and deterrence. In conclusion, televising criminal trials can play a pivotal role in enhancing public trust, educating citizens, and reducing crime, making it a practice worth embracing.
5.2 Mindmap for Band 9 Response
Visual structure of the Band 9 Sample Answer (Media Topic)
IELTS Writing Checker
If you would like to practise IELTS Writing Task 1 & 2 with instant AI feedback, you can use Lingoleap, an AI-powered platform designed for IELTS and TOEFL learners.
7. Recent IELTS Writing Task 2 Media Sample Answers (Band 6.5â9)
Emphasising New Products
In their advertising, businesses nowadays usually emphasise that their products are new in some way. Why is this? Do you think it is a positive or negative development?
Read full answerThe Success of Advertising
Some people say that advertising is extremely successful at persuading us to buy things. Other people think that advertising is so common that we no longer pay attention to it. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Read full answerHigh Sales and Real Needs
Today, the high sales of popular consumer goods reflect the power of advertising and not the real needs of the society in which they are sold. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Read full answer8. Step-by-Step IELTS Writing Tips and Practice Plan (Media)
8.1A four-step writing process
- 1.
Analyse the question
Identify topic (TV trials, social media) and question type (Opinion, Discussion).
- 2.
Plan your main ideas
Outline two strong body paragraphs. Check that each idea answers the question directly.
- 3.
Write the essay
Follow the 4-paragraph structure. Use specific media-related examples.
- 4.
Review and improve
Check paragraphing, linking words, and replace basic vocab with stronger alternatives.
8.2Practise with an IELTS writing checker
After each practice essay, use an AI-powered IELTS writing checker like Lingoleap to:
- Estimate your band score accurately.
- Highlight grammar and vocabulary errors.
- Get feedback on Task Response and Coherence.
9. FAQ: Media Essays in IELTS Academic Writing Task 2
Is this page for Academic or General Training?
This guide is designed for IELTS Academic Writing Task 2. However, the same IELTS writing criteria and band descriptors apply in General Training. The main difference is that Academic questions sometimes feel slightly more formal or academic, while General Training questions are often more practical and everyday.
How many paragraphs should I write for a media essay?
Most high-band IELTS writing task 2 sample answers use four paragraphs: an introduction, two body paragraphs and a conclusion. This is enough to fully develop two strong ideas without losing control of your structure.
How can I reach Band 7â9 on media topics?
Learn the standard Task 2 structures for each question type. Build a personal bank of media vocabulary and examples. Practise regularly using recent IELTS Writing Task 2 media topics. Use a reliable IELTS writing checker or teacher feedback to understand your current band and next steps.
Ready to reach Band 7?
Practise Writing Task 2 media topics under exam conditions and get your AI score instantly.
Practice Now Free