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.

International English Language Testing System

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.

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How would you answer this IELTS essay questions about recent advancements in technology have made TV screens appear almost 'live'?

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.

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Useful Vocabulary

Live performances: When artists or entertainers perform 'an actual show' for an audience in real-time, giving a special and raw experience.

"Live performaces offer an unfiltered and spontaneous form of entertainment, captivating audiences with the unpredictability of real-time events."

TV screen so live: When watching TV feels just like being at a live event because of how real and immediate it seems.

"Advancements such as 4K resolution and HDR technology make the TV screen so live and vibrant that viewers feel as if they are part of the action."

How much technology: Describing the 'degree' (how much) that techology has been used to make a product or activity, like a TV show, better.

"The question isn't just about how much technology has advanced, but how it has elevated the quality of our entertainment in such a way that we feel we are experiencing the event live! For example watching a live cricket game in our own drawing room."

Television production (TV production): The making of TV shows, from writing and filming to editing, ready for us to watch.

"High-quality TV production is essential for engaging the audience and maintaining their interest in the show."

Live shows: Events or performances shown on TV or online right as they happen, letting viewers watch the action live.

"Live shows offer an unfiltered and spontaneous form of entertainment, captivating audiences with the unpredictability of real-time performances."

Television shows: Shows made for TV, from dramas and comedies to documentaries and reality TV.

"The diversity of television shows available today reflects the broad spectrum of human interests and societal issues."

Live television: TV broadcasted instantly, with no delay, often used for news, sports, and live events.

"Live television broadcasts, particularly of major sporting events, have the power to unite people from different cultures and backgrounds."

Entertainment industry: The part of the economy that makes and shares entertainment like movies, TV shows, music, and live events.

"The global entertainment industry, by constantly evolving, plays a pivotal role in shaping cultural narratives and influencing public opinion."

Entertainment habits: How people like to watch or enjoy entertainment, which can change with new technology or cultural shifts.

"Changes in entertainment habits, largely driven by technological advancements, have significantly impacted how content is produced and consumed."

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.

"The adoption of Dolby home theatre systems has markedly enhanced the audio-visual experience of viewers, bringing cinema-quality sound to the home environment."

Seating capacity: How many people can fit into a place like a theatre or stadium, affecting how fun live events are.

"The seating capacity of a venue directly influences its atmosphere, with larger capacities often contributing to more electrifying experiences."

Technological advancements: New tech developments that make products or services better, like TVs with ultra HD curved screens.

"Technological advancements in the entertainment sector have not only improved the quality of content but have also made it more accessible to a global audience."

Ultra HD curved screen: A TV with super clear resolution and a curved shape for a more exciting watching experience.

"The introduction of ultra HD curved screens has revolutionized the viewing experience by providing unparalleled clarity and immersion."

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.

"Investing in the high-quality home theatre systems experience allows individuals to recreate the thrill of cinema viewing within the comfort of their own homes."

Operating system: Software that lets devices like smart TVs work, running apps and showing content.

"The efficiency of a smart TV's operating system is crucial for enabling a seamless and user-friendly interface for accessing a wide range of content."