GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 305
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
More and more young people use the Internet to socialise.
Do you think this is a positive or a negative development?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1: [View: This is a negative development.]
An increasing number of young adults nowadays use the internet for social interaction. This essay would argue that this is a negative development because it cannot hold real dialogue and cannot build community as a result.
The internet does not encourage a climate of real dialogue among youngsters. On social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter, and so on, what young people do can be labelled as superficial. That is to say that young people just listen to what they are willing to hear. Social media, in fact, is like a huge room of mirrors, where they meet people but do not make real interactions.
Moreover, both establishing and erasing contacts on social media is extremely easy. In real life, this is not an easy task as young people need to face up to what they do. On the internet, they do not need to deal with that. There is an exchange of views, but no dialogue. There are different opinions, but no constructive debate. It actually creates an illusion of being connected with others when they are not.
Likewise, social media cannot create a community. It invites teenagers to publicise themselves, to show who they are. But they choose only the most presentable sides to show others. Young people build small community groups that they manage at their whim. They are like dictators in the kingdom of their account, and they are the ones who determine who ought to be there and who ought to be not. It does not really matter to them if they unfriend anyone. Thus, the internet fails to build a real community.
In conclusion, it seems evident that socialising using the internet and social networking platforms is a negative phenomenon as these virtual interactions cannot create real dialogue as well as a community.
Model Answer 2: [View: This is a positive development]
The proliferation of the Internet has brought about a significant shift in the way young people socialise, with an increasing number of them turning to online platforms for social interaction. In my view, this trend is undoubtedly a positive development as it offers numerous advantages, including enhanced connectivity, global networking opportunities, and a platform for self-expression.
While some may argue that excessive reliance on the Internet for socialising can lead to a lack of real-life interpersonal skills, it is important to recognise that the online world is merely a complement to, rather than a replacement for, offline social interactions.
Undeniably, the Internet provides a means of connectivity that transcends geographical boundaries. Young people can connect with individuals from diverse cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives, allowing for the exchange of ideas and fostering a broader understanding of the world. This global networking enriches social interactions and cultivates a sense of global citizenship, promoting tolerance and empathy.
Furthermore, online platforms offer young people a platform for self-expression and creativity. Through social media, blogs, vlogs, and other online communities, they can share their thoughts, experiences, and artistic endeavours with a wider audience. This not only boosts their confidence and self-esteem but also encourages creative exploration and innovation. For example, consider a young aspiring artist who creates vibrant and unique artwork but struggles to find opportunities to showcase their talent in the local community. Through online platforms such as Instagram or DeviantArt, they can easily share their artwork with a wide audience, receive feedback, and connect with fellow artists from around the world.
In conclusion, the increasing use of the Internet for socialising among young people is a positive development. It facilitates connectivity, fosters self-expression and creativity, and provides opportunities for personal growth. As long as young individuals approach online socialisation responsibly, the Internet can be a powerful tool for fostering meaningful connections and enriching their social experiences.