Plan this discussion essay about media with the ideas and outline below, write it on a 40-minute timer, then compare it with a band-8 model answer.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people believe that news reports should always be neutral. Others think journalists should give their own opinions.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
GoPrep wrote this practice question in the style of the exam. It is not an official IELTS question.
Pick two or three points from one or both columns. You do not need all of them, and your own examples score better than memorised ones.
Spend the first few minutes planning, then write.
0 words of 250 minimum
Your answer stays on this page only. Copy it before you leave.
Write your own answer first, then compare: how it answers the exact question, what each paragraph does, and which phrases you could borrow.
While some people believe that news reports should be strictly neutral, others argue that journalists should express their own views. In my opinion, factual reporting and opinion both have a place, provided that readers can tell the difference.
Supporters of neutrality argue that the purpose of news is to inform. If a report presents verified facts without comment, readers can reach their own conclusions. It also reduces the risk of bias, since journalists, like anyone else, have political and personal preferences that may colour their writing. A news source that is seen as fair earns the trust of its audience, which is its most valuable asset; viewers of public broadcasters such as the BBC rely on this impartiality.
On the other hand, there are strong arguments in favour of opinion. Facts alone can be confusing, and a reporter who explains what a new tax law means for ordinary families is giving context that makes the story useful. Moreover, perfect neutrality is probably impossible, because the decision about which stories to cover and which details to include already reflects a point of view. Open commentary may be more honest than a pretence of objectivity. Debate is also healthy in a democracy, as columns and editorials challenge governments and encourage readers to think.
My own view is that the news itself should be as neutral as possible, while opinion should be clearly labelled and kept in separate sections or programmes. This way, audiences benefit from accurate information and from interpretation without being misled about which is which.
In conclusion, strict neutrality protects trust, but thoughtful, transparent opinion adds understanding, and a responsible media should offer both.
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| objective reporting | reporting facts without bias |
| bias | unfair preference |
| editorial | opinion article by a publication |
| impartial | not taking sides |
| form an opinion | decide what you think |
| press freedom | right of media to report |
Answer random Part 1, 2 and 3 questions on an exam timer.
Average your four skill bands, rounded the way IELTS rounds them.
Compare an IELTS band with TOEFL, Duolingo and PTE scores and CEFR levels.
Look up the IELTS score a university asks for, with the source.