Crime reporting in the media: IELTS Task 2 essay #2, band 8.0

Nowadays, crimes are frequently reported in newspapers and on television. Although this information can help people understand what is happening in society, I agree that detailed descriptions of crimes should be restricted because they can negatively affect individuals and encourage criminal behaviour.

To begin with, showing too many details about crimes can have a negative impact on people's mental health. This is because some reports contain disturbing information that can make viewers feel afraid or uncomfortable. For example, when people constantly watch news about murders, robberies or other serious crimes, they may start believing that their neighbourhood is dangerous, even if the actual risk is low. As a result, they might become anxious and lose their sense of safety. Therefore, the media should avoid sharing unnecessary details that could affect people's well-being.

1. Lexical resource

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   RevisedThis is because some reports contain graphic information that can make viewers feel afraid or uncomfortable.

   The revision provides a more effective word choice to convey the intended meaning more clearly.

2. Grammar & accuracy

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   RevisedFor example, people who constantly watch news about murders, robberies, or other serious crimes may start believing that their neighbourhood is dangerous, even if the actual risk is low.

   The revision corrects the tense and provides a more effective structure for the sentence.

3. Lexical resource

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   RevisedAs a result, they might feel anxious and lose their sense of security.

   The revision provides a more effective word choice to convey the intended meaning more clearly.

In addition, providing detailed information about criminal activities may encourage some individuals to commit similar crimes. This is particularly concerning for young people who may be easily influenced by what they see on television or read online. For instance, if a news report explains exactly how a criminal successfully robbed a shop without being caught, someone might try to copy the same method. Limiting these details could reduce the possibility of such situations happening. However, this does not mean that all crime-related news should be banned, as people still have the right to know about important events.

1. Coherence & cohesion

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   RevisedAdditionally, providing detailed information about criminal activities could, in some cases, encourage individuals to commit similar crimes.

   The revision provides a more effective use of linking words to connect ideas and sentences more effectively.

2. Grammar & accuracy

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   RevisedHowever, this does not imply that all crime-related news should be banned, as people still have the right to know about significant events.

   The revision provides a more effective word choice and structure for the sentence.

Nevertheless, reporting crimes is still necessary because it helps the public stay informed and protect themselves. News reports can also warn people about common scams and inform them about dangerous situations. Consequently, journalists should continue reporting crimes but focus more on the facts and consequences rather than unnecessary details.

1. Coherence & cohesion

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   RevisedNevertheless, reporting crimes is still necessary as it helps the public stay informed and protect themselves.

   The revision provides a more effective use of linking words to connect ideas and sentences more effectively.

In conclusion, I strongly agree that detailed descriptions of crimes should be restricted because they can cause fear and potentially encourage criminal behaviour. However, basic information should remain available so that the public can stay informed and safe.