Reading Fiction is More Enjoyable - IELTS Writing Task 2 Argumentative Essay

Ideating for the IELTS Writing Task 2 Argumentative Essay in 40 minutes might seem like a difficult task, especially when you have to clearly state your viewpoint on a topic like ‘Reading Fiction is More Enjoyable’. To score a band 8+ in the IELTS Writing Section, you must work on your ability to present a logical argument, the clarity of your viewpoint, and the strength of your vocabulary and grammar. This topic will help you to reflect on reading patterns and creativity while focusing on emotional connection which enhances your language and your argument.

Ideation Tips for the IELTS Writing Task 2 Argumentative Essay, ‘Reading Fiction is More Enjoyable’

The ability to generate ideas in the IELTS Writing Task 2 is a vital skill for you to answer within the allotted time of 40 minutes. In the essay, ‘Reading Fiction is More Enjoyable’, you can first focus on organizing your thoughts, developing rational views, and writing paragraphs on time. Below is a table that shows methods which can help you to brainstorm the ideas for any argumentative essay, even when the topic appears to be unfamiliar, in such a way that you are full of confidence.

Question - IELTS Writing Task 2 Argumentative Essay, ‘Reading Fiction is More Enjoyable’

Structure Breakdown for the IELTS Writing Task 2 Argumentative Essay, ‘Reading Fiction is More Enjoyable’

Organising your ideas into a clear, logical structure is essential for getting an IELTS Band Score of 8+. A well-prepared outline for the essay, ‘Reading Fiction is More Enjoyable’, would guide you in making your ideas sound focused, consistent, and relevant. Below is the breakdown which can guide you to create an ideal structure for this topic to help you understand how your essay should be organised.

Want to learn How to write an IELTS Agree-Disagree Essay in 10 Minutes? Check out the video below!

Sample Essay 1 on ‘Reading Fiction is More Enjoyable’

While some people enjoy reading fiction, others prefer watching movies. Personally, I believe that reading fiction is more entertaining than watching films. In the following paragraphs, I shall elaborate on my viewpoint.

There are several advantages to reading fiction. Firstly, a book can be carried with you wherever you go. For example, one can read a book while travelling or taking the bus. Secondly, reading enhances one’s vocabulary and even writing skills. Consequently, it is vital for youngsters as it broadens their interests, strengthens their creativity, and allows them to absorb more information and experience through literature. My mother always had me read a lot of books when I was a kid. Because of her, I had no trouble writing various types of essays in school and received great scores.

Additionally, reading seems like an active task to me. When one reads novels or short stories, one can imagine what is happening in the text or how the character feels. This makes the person more invested in the novel’s characters than in the movie. The way it is usually composed is simply phenomenal; one can visualize the situations more vividly than a movie could ever hope to represent and feel emotions. For example, I recently finished “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen. I identified with the characters, especially the protagonist of the narrative. Austen’s portrayal of the figure is so beautiful that it elicits both sympathy and dread.

However, it cannot be denied that some individuals prefer watching movies to reading books. Several individuals find reading books mundane but enjoy viewing a movie in a theatre because of the sound effects, a widescreen, etc. It is also a great way to unwind with friends, release stress and anxiety, and have fun.

In conclusion, viewing a movie with a group of people makes it more fun and remarkable. However, reading a book helps people engage in great details of the characters and overall plot.

Vocabulary for Sample Answer 1 on ‘Reading Fiction is More Enjoyable’

• Phenomenal 

Meaning: (adj) remarkable or exceptional, especially exceptionally good.
Eg.: China has experienced phenomenal growth in population in recent years.

• Vividly

Meaning: (adverb) in a way that produces powerful feelings or strong, clear images in the mind.
Eg.: I can still vividly remember my grandfather teaching me to play ludo.

• Elicits

Meaning: (verb) evoke or draw out (a reaction, answer, or fact) from someone.
Eg.: Tanya could elicit no response from Kanika.

• Dread

Meaning: (verb) anticipate with great apprehension or fear.
Eg.: Yamini dreads going to safari.

• Mundane

Meaning: (adj) lacking interest or excitement; dull.
Eg.: Emma hates her job because she is asked to do mundane tasks every day.

Sample Essay 2 on ‘Reading Fiction is More Enjoyable’

Certain people opine that novels are more thrilling than watching films. I am personally of the opinion that reading is more enjoyable than watching movies and I completely agree with this notion. 

The main reason is that reading is a development of one's own imagination, character, and setting which accentuates one’s ability to imagine the story, characters and setting in a unique way. Furthermore, novels and stories depict the inner lives of characters with greater feelings and thoughts as compared to movies. For example, when a person reads a fiction book such as ‘The Great Gatsby’, they get to know about the writer’s technique of providing inner monologues and thorough descriptions. However, in the movie, the viewer only sees the character’s behavior and facial expressions, which do not completely reveal what they are feeling in reality.

Moreover, reading helps in developing vocabulary, concentration and inventiveness. Besides, it is a calm as well as a personal experience that takes place away from any forms of distractions. For instance, if a person reads a book when going to bed, they tend to be in a serene environment where they feel relaxed. This helps them to unwind and visualize everything clearly. Thus, reading a fiction book improves one’s creative thinking skills and enhances their visualization.

In conclusion, the experience of reading novels can help readers to dive into complex stories where they get to know the characters and use their imagination while improving their creative thinking skills. Such capabilities become a source of life-enlightening views which helps in strengthening the bond with the plot and ideas.

Vocabulary for Sample Answer 2 on ‘Reading Fiction is More Enjoyable’

• Accentuate

Meaning: To give some special treatment
Eg.: The designer decided to use vivid colours for the purpose of accentuating the room's beauty.

• Monologue

Meaning: A lengthy speech delivered by one person
Eg.: The performer presented a monologue that shocked the audience.

• Serene

Meaning: A calm and peaceful environment which is not influenced by stress
Eg.: The water surface of the lake was extremely smooth and looked very serene at dawn.

• Visualization 

Meaning: To imagine something by making an image in one’s mind
Eg.: Athletes often apply visualization methods to increase their effectiveness.

• Enlightening 

Meaning: New information or perspective
Eg.: The seminar was really enlightening which helped the students to view the topic from a different point of view.

Scoring a band 8+ in the argumentative essay would require you to practice writing on different topics. This will make your reasoning sharper and help your mind to be adaptable so that you can immediately answer any topic given in the IELTS Exam. With regular practise, smart planning, and gradual improvement in your writing skills, you will develop the skill to write a coherent essay which will help you to get a higher band score.

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