Below is a model answer for a Task 2 ‘Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?’ essay. With this type of question, you could either talk about the advantages or the disadvantages.
However, for a well-balanced essay, it would be best to address both sides and to ensure that you have made your position clear right from the introduction.
This model essay follows the following template:
Introduction: with the position
1st Body Paragraph: the advantages
2nd Body Paragraph: the disadvantages
Conclusion: repeating the position
The Question
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
These days, many people will stay home to watch a live performance (for example, a sports match or a concert) because they can see everything on a TV or computer screen.
Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
The Answer
Some people prefer not to attend a live sporting or music event in person, instead watching at home on a TV or computer. Although there are good reasons to do so, those advantages are largely outweighed by the disadvantages.
Watching a performance without having to leave the house is undoubtedly convenient; time saved on travelling to a sports stadium or gig venue can be time well spent doing other things. It is also, typically, much cheaper; while such events may be aired on a pay per view channel, no expenditure on travel or event tickets is necessary, and food and drink are more affordable. Not to forget, of course, that at home, there is no queue for the toilets.
The sensation of a live event, however, is incomparable. One is far likelier to remember – for life – the electric atmosphere of a packed-out arena than an evening sitting on the sofa. Sporting and music events are settings in which to meet new people, to experience a shared tension that simply cannot be translated through a screen, and to lose oneself in the excitement of the moment. Purchasing a ticket is also the most effective way to support the performers we love, whether our home teams or our favourite musicians. This, in what are incredibly tough times for the events industry as a whole, is vital.
To conclude, while there are some upsides to viewing from home, the experience of being there in person simply cannot be matched. People should make an effort, where they can, to do so.
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