top of page

Do Movies and TV Programmes Affect Us Negatively? (IELTS Task 2 Sample Essay)

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.


Write about the following topic:


Many people say that movies and TV programmes affect us negatively while others say that they are two influential and useful media for us.


How do movies and TV affect us?


Do Movies and TV Programmes Affect Us Negatively? A Band 9 Strategy for Success

Do Movies and TV Programmes Affect Us Negatively? A Band 9 Essay Strategy

Before we dive into the Band 9 sample essays, let’s briefly discuss this intriguing topic. If you’re eager to jump straight to the sample essays, feel free to scroll down! The essay question explores whether movies and TV programmes affect us negatively or serve as influential and useful media.


To craft a Band 9 response, focus on one or two well-developed points that are thoroughly explained and supported with relevant examples. Avoid listing multiple shallow points, as IELTS examiners value quality over quantity. When answering a question like how do movies and TV affect us, you don’t need to worry about taking the "correct" stance—choose the side you can support most effectively. Examples, whether hypothetical or drawn from real-life experiences, can significantly strengthen your argument. Finally, aim to meet all IELTS Band Descriptors: clearly address the task, ensure smooth coherence and cohesion, use advanced vocabulary naturally, and demonstrate precise grammar.


Our website offers valuable resources to help you ace the IELTS Writing Task. Download our comprehensive eBooks in PDF format for a complete guide to achieving your target band. These eBooks include detailed tips and strategies, step-by-step examples of how to apply them, and a variety of practice questions from recent IELTS exams. Additionally, our personalized essay correction service provides detailed feedback from an experienced IELTS examiner within 24 hours. This service will help you refine your essays and achieve the Band 9 score you’ve been aiming for. Take advantage of these resources to maximize your preparation!



Sample Essay 1

Movies and TV programmes have long been a part of our lives, with some arguing that these mediums affect us negatively, while others view them as valuable tools for education and entertainment. In my opinion, while these forms of media can occasionally have adverse effects, they are predominantly influential and useful, fostering cultural understanding and offering valuable life lessons. This essay will explore both perspectives, focusing on their educational benefits and potential drawbacks.


One of the most compelling arguments in favor of movies and TV programmes is their ability to educate and inspire. Documentaries, for instance, shed light on pressing global issues such as climate change or historical events, fostering awareness among viewers. Similarly, fictional stories often convey moral lessons or portray diverse cultures, promoting empathy and understanding. For example, a critically acclaimed movie like The Pursuit of Happyness inspires resilience, teaching viewers the importance of perseverance during challenging times. Thus, it is evident that these media not only entertain but also enrich our knowledge and perspectives, making them influential and beneficial tools in today’s world.


On the other hand, critics argue that movies and TV programmes affect us negatively by promoting unhealthy lifestyles or distorting reality. Excessive screen time can contribute to physical health issues such as obesity, while unrealistic portrayals of life can create unattainable expectations, leading to dissatisfaction. For instance, TV shows often glamorize luxury, which might encourage materialistic behavior among impressionable viewers. Additionally, violent content in certain films or series could potentially desensitize audiences, particularly young people, to aggression. Therefore, while these media have undeniable benefits, their negative impact cannot be overlooked.


In conclusion, movies and TV programmes significantly shape our lives, both positively and negatively. By educating, inspiring, and entertaining, they serve as powerful tools for personal and cultural growth. However, it is essential to be mindful of their potential adverse effects to ensure they are consumed responsibly.


Achieve your dream score with our detailed IELTS eBooks - your complete guide!


Get our comprehensive IELTS Essay Correction Service from a real examiner!



Sample Essay 2

Movies and TV programmes, integral to contemporary culture, spark debates about their influence on society. While some argue that movies and TV programmes affect us negatively, others believe they enrich our lives. In my opinion, they serve as powerful platforms for social commentary and creative expression. However, they can also contribute to mental health issues due to unrealistic portrayals and overexposure. This essay will examine these aspects in detail.


A significant positive aspect of movies and TV is their ability to act as mirrors of society, offering profound social commentary. Many films and TV shows highlight pressing societal issues such as inequality, discrimination, and environmental degradation, encouraging critical thinking and dialogue. For instance, movies like Parasite unravel the intricacies of economic disparity, challenging viewers to reflect on systemic inequalities. Similarly, TV series like Black Mirror explore the ethical dilemmas posed by technological advancements, making audiences question the implications of innovation. By addressing complex issues in an engaging manner, these media not only entertain but also provoke thoughtful discussions, thereby fostering awareness and encouraging societal change.


Conversely, movies and TV programmes affect us negatively by perpetuating unrealistic standards and promoting excessive consumption. Idealized depictions of beauty, relationships, and success often distort viewers’ perceptions, leading to dissatisfaction and mental health struggles, especially among younger audiences. For instance, many romantic comedies portray relationships devoid of conflicts, setting unattainable expectations. Additionally, binge-watching culture, fueled by streaming platforms, contributes to sleep deprivation and reduced productivity. Overexposure to such media without critical engagement can erode mental well-being and distort real-life perspectives, underscoring the importance of mindful consumption.


In conclusion, movies and TV programmes wield immense influence, serving as vehicles for social commentary and creative expression. However, their potential to distort reality and harm mental health cannot be ignored. A balanced approach to consuming these media is essential for harnessing their benefits while mitigating their drawbacks.


Achieve your dream score with our detailed IELTS eBooks - your complete guide!

bottom of page