IELTS Writing Task 2
You should spend around 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:
Recent advancements in technology have resulted in TV screens appearing almost 'live'. Some people believe this means that people will no longer feel the need to attend live events (e.g. shows, concerts.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? Provide reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Recent Advancements in Technology Have Made the TV Screen Appear Almost LIVE
Sample Answer
Current high-tech televisions, especially internet-enabled ones, offer an incredibly convenient, high-quality and high-definition viewing experience which is hard to beat in many cases. As a result, some people feel less motivated to go and attend a live performance or event, instead opting for the comfort of viewing at home. However, in spite of the latest technology utilized in televisions, they are, as yet, unable to reproduce the feeling or atmosphere of attending such events.
While some people may be tempted to simply stay at home and watch television, there are probably as many, if not more people, who still value the experience of a live event whether it is a concert, theatre play or sporting event. It can be argued that it is incredibly difficult to replicate the same sense of excitement felt at certain live events even on latest HD entertainment systems or flat screen TV. For example, in the case of Formula 1 racing or any other similar sporting event, it is impossible to reproduce such a vivid and rich experience of the atmosphere at these events, such as the smell of high octane fuel, the noise and the excitement of the crowd.
Moreover, there is much more to attending a live event than simply watching and listening. Many live events also have a certain social element to them, a sharing of the experience, which is also difficult to simulate through TV coverage. Attending a live soccer match, for example, could be the reason for a group of friends to spend the day or evening together outdoors or in a different city. Therefore, live events offer a greater multi-dimensional experience than televised coverage can offer.
Overall, watching live events and watching the same events on TV both offer some advantages and disadvantages; however, personally I believe that people will always prefer to attend live events whenever possible simply because it provides them with a richer, deeper experience.
Maybe you want to write your essay about another recent advancement in technology. So here are some ideas:
What are the latest advancements in technology?
Let us look at 4 of the latest advancements in technology:
1. Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a technology that supports various applications in various industries such as the medical field, finance industry, and even space exploration.
One common application for AI is machine learning. Machine learning helps automate tasks through programming that it learns from trial and error or other data input into a system.
Another use of AI is to create a virtual assistant such as Siri for Apple phones, Alexa for Amazon devices, and Cortana for Windows.
AI has also been used to automate the work of law firms by making legal searches quicker and more accurate, which is crucial when preparing a case or going through large amounts of data quickly.
The most recent development in AI technology is deep learning. Deep learning is a way for machines to learn from data inputted into the system without human guidance.
2. Cloud computing
Cloud computing is a form of distributed computing that allows IT-related services from one or more sources to be provided without any need to procure all the necessary equipment, programming, networking structures, etc.
There are various cloud service models available including "public cloud" and "private cloud". An example of a public cloud is DropBox which stores your files in the cloud and provides them to you on a desktop, laptop, etc., with an internet connection.
An example of a private cloud is a company's infrastructure made available only to employees or partners. Cloud computing also has several benefits, including less need for extra storage (e.g., no more hard drives that require maintenance), faster data access, and lower energy usage.
Cloud computing is attractive because it can be more cost-effective than conventional methods of delivering IT services such as outsourcing or leasing space.
It also has certain advantages over traditional data centers for providing disaster recovery capabilities because cloud computing providers can replicate a company's data on multiple servers.
Although cloud computing has been around for decades, it is only recently that cloud storage, the process of remotely storing files in someone else's system, became feasible due to improvements in technology and internet infrastructure.
It also creates opportunities by enabling customers/users with remote locations to work from anywhere they have an internet connection.
3. Internet of Things (IoT):
What is it? It is devices such as smartphones, tablets, wearables, and other accessories connected to the internet.
Combining these technologies with a wide range of emerging applications is leading us into an “Internet of Things” world. A few examples include home automation systems such as thermostats or smoke alarms. In many cases, you can control a home automation system remotely through a smartphone.
Other common examples include the use of wearables and smartphones to track fitness (or other health) metrics or smart-home appliances connected to the internet to allow for remote monitoring and control from a distance.
4. 5G broadband internet technology
The rollout of 5G technology is having a significant impact on the lives of many people. 5G's faster speed and less latency can stream games in real-time, as well as other high-speed applications.
5G is already changing how many people live and work, with a range of businesses investing heavily into technology as a means to increase productivity. The big advantage for users of 5G is that it provides a much faster broadband connection with lower latency.
Expect the rollout of this technology to cause many changes in how we live and work, including increased use of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) for remote monitoring, security systems, smart homes, visual entertainment technology, or powering driverless cars.
As we move through 2021 and beyond, these technologies will likely transform how people live their daily lives and work remotely.
Useful Vocabulary
Live performances: When artists or entertainers perform 'an actual show' for an audience in real-time, giving a special and raw experience.
TV screen so live: When watching TV feels just like being at a live event because of how real and immediate it seems.
How much technology: Describing the 'degree' (how much) that techology has been used to make a product or activity, like a TV show, better.
Television production (TV production): The making of TV shows, from writing and filming to editing, ready for us to watch.
Live shows: Events or performances shown on TV or online right as they happen, letting viewers watch the action live.
Television shows: Shows made for TV, from dramas and comedies to documentaries and reality TV.
Live television: TV broadcasted instantly, with no delay, often used for news, sports, and live events.
Entertainment industry: The part of the economy that makes and shares entertainment like movies, TV shows, music, and live events.
Entertainment habits: How people like to watch or enjoy entertainment, which can change with new technology or cultural shifts.
Dolby home theatre: A sound system for homes that makes movies and TV sound like you're in a cinema, making everything more exciting to watch.
Seating capacity: How many people can fit into a place like a theatre or stadium, affecting how fun live events are.
Technological advancements: New tech developments that make products or services better, like TVs with ultra HD curved screens.
Ultra HD curved screen: A TV with super clear resolution and a curved shape for a more exciting watching experience.
Home theatre systems experience: Using great audio and video equipment at home to feel like you're watching a movie or live event in a theatre.
Operating system: Software that lets devices like smart TVs work, running apps and showing content.