GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 343
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people believe that people who read for pleasure in their free time have a better imagination than those who prefer to watch TV.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1:
It is often argued that reading for pleasure in leisure time enhances our imagination more than it could be achieved by watching television. I completely agree with this statement because reading develops the ability to engage and immerse the readers into the narrative, relate to characters, visualize meaning and, our brains get more workout than watching television.
To begin with, leisure reading is a great way to ignite one’s imagination. It, in fact, helps readers actively engage in the narrative, thereby sparking their skill of imagination. That is to say, readers, through reading, can imagine that they are part of the narrative and, can see, hear, smell, taste, and feel the objects around them as the narrative progresses. A case in point is Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte. In the novel, when Lockwood tells the story, readers can get a sense of the cold and bitter atmosphere of Wuthering Heights.
Moreover, scientists conclusively prove this opinion with the help of Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) scans that the right hemisphere of the brain is activated when readers are reading. Since the imaginative power of the human race is centred on the right side of the brain, the exercise of the brain takes place when one is reading. Conversely, watching TV triggers imagination very little, as it is passive. When one watches a story on television, it requires very little effort to imagine the scenarios. They are visually provided for the viewers. As they do not need to create pictures in their mind, their brain does not receive the same exercise as with reading.
To conclude, pleasure reading excites more imagination than watching TV. This is because the brain gets more exercise than watching motion pictures on television.
Model Answer 2:
Some people hold the opinion that individuals who indulge in leisurely reading possess a superior imagination compared to those who opt for television viewing. I agree with this opinion, and in this essay, I will aim to delve into the reasons behind this.
One fundamental aspect that substantiates the claim is the depth of engagement that reading demands. When people immerse themselves in books, they are compelled to conjure mental images, envisage characters’ appearances, and visualize intricate settings. This active participation in the narrative process stimulates creative faculties and encourages readers to explore alternative interpretations of the story. Unlike television, where images and scenes are presented to the viewer, reading necessitates an internal mental effort to construct the visuals, thus fostering a more profound imaginative experience.
Moreover, literature often involves intricate plots and multifaceted characters that encourage readers to speculate on different scenarios and outcomes. As they navigate the complexities of the narrative, readers are compelled to think critically and employ their imagination to predict character motivations and plot twists. This mental exercise cultivates a deeper appreciation for the layers of storytelling, empowering individuals to envision a multitude of potential developments. An illustrative example of the power of reading in enhancing imagination is J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series. Readers across the world have been captivated by Rowling’s rich descriptions and intricate world-building. As they traverse the magical realm of Hogwarts and its inhabitants, readers actively contribute to the creation of this fantastical universe by envisioning characters, magical creatures, and spellbinding landscapes, thereby deepening their imaginative faculties.
In conclusion, the argument that reading for pleasure bolsters imagination more effectively than watching television is well-founded. The immersive nature of reading, coupled with its capacity to incite active mental participation and speculation, renders it a potent catalyst for imaginative growth that transcends the passive engagement offered by television viewing.
Thank you for the article.