Many People Feel That Media Coverage Is Becoming Increasingly Biased Today. Why Is This? What Can Be Done To Fix This Problem? IELTS Writing Task 2

1. Introduction

Sentence 1: General introduction to the topic
Introduce the importance of media in shaping public opinion.

Sentence 2: State the problem clearly
Mention the concern of increasing media bias.

Sentence 3: Thesis statement
Explain what the essay will do. Discuss causes and suggest solutions.

2. Body Paragraph 1 

Cause 1: Media Ownership
Topic sentence: State the first cause, media ownership.
Explanation: How ownership leads to biased content.
Example or Detail: Corporations pushing their agendas and limiting dissent.

3. Body Paragraph 2 

Cause 2: Social Media Algorithms
Topic sentence: State the second cause: Algorithms.
Explanation: How algorithms create echo chambers.
Example or detail: Content shown to match user preferences fuels bias.

4. Body Paragraph 3 

Solutions Topic sentence: Shift focus to solutions.
Solution 1: Encourage diverse media ownership.
Solution 2: Educate the public on media literacy.

How these help: Explain briefly how each solution addresses the problem.

5. Conclusion
Sentence 1: Summarise the causes
Sentence 2: Summarise the solutions
Sentence 3: Final thought or message

The media plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and spreading information. However, concerns have grown that news coverage today is often biased. This change is primarily due to media ownership concentration and algorithm-driven content online. In this essay, I will discuss these causes and suggest some possible solutions.

One major reason for biased reporting is the ownership of media houses. Many large corporations own multiple news channels and newspapers. Their financial or political interests often influence the news that is broadcast. As a result, stories are presented in a way that supports their goals, and voices of dissent are ignored. This lack of diverse ownership reduces the variety of perspectives available to the public.

Another contributing factor is the rise of social media algorithms that prioritise engagement over accuracy. Online platforms tend to show users content they already agree with, which creates echo chambers. People end up seeing one-sided information that confirms their beliefs rather than challenges them. This repetition of similar viewpoints fuels bias and divides society further.

To address this issue, governments can encourage diverse media ownership. Providing support for independent and community-based news outlets will allow multiple viewpoints to be heard. Regulations must ensure that no single group has too much control over news networks. Furthermore, educating the public on media literacy can reduce the impact of bias. When people understand how to spot misleading headlines or check facts, they are less likely to fall for manipulated information. Schools and online platforms can play a big role in teaching these skills.

In conclusion, biased media coverage is caused by concentrated ownership and the influence of digital algorithms. Encouraging diverse media voices and improving media literacy are two effective ways to address the issue. A balanced and fair media is essential for a healthy democracy.

1. Introduction

General statement about the importance of the media
Introduce the issue: rising media bias
Thesis statement: Mention that the essay will discuss causes and suggest solutions

2. Body Paragraph 1 

Cause 1
Topic sentence: Introduce the first cause, ‘Profit Pressure’
Explain how media outlets focus on revenue
Example or result of this bias

3. Body Paragraph 2 

Cause 2
Topic sentence: Introduce the second cause, ‘Misinformation’
Explain how unverified content spreads fast
Consequence: Loss of trust and confusion

In an information-rich world, the media have become a major influence on public opinion. Yet, concerns are growing that modern media is increasingly biased. This problem arises mainly from commercial pressure and the spread of misinformation. In this essay, I will examine these causes and suggest practical solutions to tackle the issue.

One major reason for media bias is the pressure to earn a profit. Most media outlets operate as businesses that rely heavily on advertisements. As a result, they often publish stories that attract more views rather than those that present balanced reporting. News agencies may choose to support certain political groups or social movements that appeal to their target audience to maintain revenue.

Another significant cause is the rapid spread of misinformation on digital platforms. Fake news can be created and shared within seconds without proper fact-checking. With the rise of social media influencers and unverified online content creators, people are exposed to skewed information that often reflects personal beliefs rather than facts. This deepens public confusion and reduces the credibility of genuine journalism.

To resolve this issue, media channels must commit to journalistic transparency. Newsrooms should declare their editorial policies and ensure that they are not influenced by advertisers. Independent journalism platforms should be supported and promoted. Additionally, governments should create strict laws against spreading fake news and ensure that social media companies take accountability. Another important solution is increasing public awareness through education. Media literacy programs should be launched to help people identify biased or false information. Training individuals to cross-check facts and verify sources can reduce the impact of manipulated news and create an informed society.

In conclusion, biased media reporting is largely caused by the need to earn profit and the unchecked spread of false information. However, by promoting transparency in media practices and educating people on media literacy, we can restore fairness in reporting and rebuild trust in journalism.

1. Introduction

General background: The Media’s powerful role in society.
Problem statement: Rising concerns about media bias.
Thesis statement: The essay will explore the reasons and suggest solutions.

2. Body Paragraph 1
Cause 1: Political Affiliation
Topic sentence: One major reason is political alignment.
Explanation: News channels are linked with political groups.

3. Body Paragraph 2 

Cause 2: Competition for Ratings
Topic sentence: Another reason is competition for attention.
Explanation: Media outlets use sensationalism to boost viewership.
Result: Damaged journalistic quality.

4. Body Paragraph 3:
Solutions

Topic sentence: Solutions to reduce bias.
Solution 1: Support independent media.
Solution 2: Encourage fact-checking platforms.
Solution 3: Ethical journalism training programs.
Result: Improved credibility and quality in reporting.

5. Conclusion

Restate the main causes.
Restate solutions.
Final Thought: Re-emphasise the role of media in society.

In the modern era, the media is a powerful source of information and opinion shaping. However, many people believe that media coverage is becoming increasingly biased. This growing partiality often results from political affiliations and the race for higher ratings. This essay explores the main reasons for media bias and suggests how this situation can be improved.

One significant cause of biased media coverage is political alignment. Many news channels are directly or indirectly linked to political parties or influential leaders. This association causes them to present news in a way that favours their side while criticising opponents. For instance, news on elections or government schemes is sometimes shown from a slanted viewpoint to serve the political agenda of the owner.

In addition, media bias is also driven by competition for higher viewership ratings. In a crowded digital marketplace, news organisations are under constant pressure to grab attention. To achieve this, some outlets publish dramatic or emotionally charged content rather than neutral and informative reporting. This strategy may increase popularity in the short term, but it damages journalistic integrity in the long run.

To address this issue, one solution is to promote independent media. Governments and international organisations can provide support and protection to journalists working without corporate or political backing. These platforms are more likely to offer balanced perspectives. Furthermore, fact-checking organisations should be encouraged to detect and expose biased or misleading content. Another effective remedy is to train journalists in ethical reporting. Media education programs should focus on the principles of fairness, accuracy, and impartiality. When reporters are equipped with the right skills and values, the overall quality and trustworthiness of the media can improve significantly.

In conclusion, media bias arises due to political connections and the pressure of viewership ratings. However, by supporting independent media outlets and promoting ethical journalism training, we can reduce this problem and ensure that the media returns to its core responsibility: providing truthful and balanced information to the public.