It is better to learn the way people lived in the past through films and video records than written documents. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

n
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In
today's digital era, many argue that
films
and video
records
are more effective for learning about how
people
lived in the past compared to traditional written
documents
.
While
films
undoubtedly
offer
vivid visualizations and immersive experiences, I believe both mediums have unique strengths in preserving history, and it is essential to strike a balance between them.
Films
and video
records
bring historical events and lifestyles to life in ways that written
documents
often cannot. The ability to recreate settings, clothing, and mannerisms allows viewers to see and feel the past, fostering a deeper emotional connection.
For example
, historical
films
like Schindler’s List or 12 Years a Slave not only convey facts but
also
evoke empathy, helping audiences understand the human experiences behind historical events.
Additionally
, videos
offer
accessibility to a wide range of
people
, including those who may find reading difficult.
However
, relying solely on
films
and videos can lead to a distorted or oversimplified understanding of the past. Filmmakers often dramatize or selectively present historical facts to enhance storytelling, which can result in inaccuracies. Written
documents
,
on the other hand
, provide a more detailed and reliable account of history. Texts
such
as diaries, letters, and official
records
offer
primary sources that historians use to interpret the past with greater precision. They allow for nuanced analysis that may be lost in visual adaptations.
Moreover
, written
records
offer
a broader range of perspectives.
While
films
focus on major historical events or prominent figures, written
documents
often capture the voices of ordinary
people
and reflect everyday life. They provide a window into different social classes, professions, and cultures, offering a more comprehensive understanding of how
people
lived in the past. In conclusion,
while
films
and videos are powerful tools for engaging with history, written
documents
remain invaluable for in-depth, accurate learning. A combination of both methods allows for a richer and more complete understanding of the past.
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task achievement
To strengthen your task achievement, you could deepen the discussion on how these mediums play complementary roles rather than focusing on their individual strengths and weaknesses.
coherence cohesion
To enhance coherence and cohesion, consider using transitional phrases and topic sentences to improve the flow between paragraphs.
task achievement
The essay provides a balanced view, acknowledging the strengths of both films and written documents in learning about history.
coherence cohesion
You have effectively introduced and concluded your essay, ensuring a clear structure, which enhances understanding.
task achievement
Relevant examples like 'Schindler’s List' and '12 Years a Slave' are well-incorporated to support the argument about the effectiveness of films.

Support ideas with relevant, specific examples

Examples make your writing easier to understand by illustrating points more effectively.

Examples, if used properly, not only help you get higher marks for ‘Task Response’ but also for ‘Coherence’.

When giving examples it is best to put them after your main idea or topic sentence. They can be used in the middle of supporting sentences or they can be used to start a new sentence. There is no rule for where exactly to give examples in essays, logically they would come after your main idea/topic sentence or just after a supporting sentence.

Linking words for giving examples:

  • for example
  • for instance
  • to illustrate this
  • to give a clear example
  • such as
  • namely
  • to illustrate
  • take, for example

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Topic Vocabulary:
  • historical events
  • visual representation
  • immerse
  • bring to life
  • accuracy
  • bias
  • limited scope
  • perspective
  • incomplete
  • superficial
  • detailed
  • reliable
  • primary sources
  • firsthand accounts
  • critical analysis
  • interpretation
  • balance
  • comprehensive understanding
  • critical thinking skills
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