WRITING TASK 2 You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write a bout th e following topic: More and more people nowadays visit well-known places to take photographs of themselves, without looking at tl1e place. Why do you think this is happening? Is it a positive or a negative trend? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.

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In recent years, an increasing number of people
visit
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have visited
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famous landmarks with the primary intention of taking photographs of themselves, often without fully appreciating the place they are visiting.
This
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trend
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is largely driven by the rise of social
media
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and the desire for validation, but it raises concerns about how we engage with cultural and historical sites. One significant factor contributing to
this
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phenomenon is the widespread influence of social
media
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platforms,
such
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as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Many individuals are motivated by the desire to share curated images of their lives, seeking likes, comments, and followers.
As a result
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, people often focus on capturing a perfect "selfie" in front of iconic landmarks rather than taking the time to explore or understand the place. The need for an aesthetically pleasing photo has become more important for some than the actual experience of being in a particular location.
Moreover
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, certain destinations have gained popularity mainly
due to
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their visual appeal, making them hotspots for "Instagram tourism." Famous sites like the Eiffel Tower, Machu Picchu, and the Grand Canyon are often visited with the sole aim of obtaining a perfect photo to share online, which means visitors may miss out on appreciating the history, culture, or natural beauty of these locations.
This
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shift towards superficial engagement is indicative of a broader societal
trend
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, where online image-building is prioritized over authentic travel experiences. Whether
this
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trend
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is positive or negative depends on one's perspective. On the one hand, it can encourage global tourism, driving economic benefits for local communities.
Additionally
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, it might spark curiosity in
travelers
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travellers
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, prompting them to learn more about the places they visit after sharing their photos online.
However
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,
this
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tendency
also
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has drawbacks. Focusing on social
media
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validation often leads to shallow experiences and prevents individuals from fully engaging with the culture, heritage, and people of a place. The obsession with creating the perfect image can
also
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result in environmental damage and overcrowding, as tourists may disregard local customs or the sustainability of popular locations. In conclusion,
while
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the growing
trend
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of photographing oneself in front of iconic landmarks reflects the power of social
media
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, it often undermines the deeper value of travel. It is crucial for
travelers
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travellers
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to strike a balance between capturing memories and truly connecting with the places they visit. Ultimately, the true benefit of travel lies in experiencing and learning about new cultures, which should not be overshadowed by the pursuit of online approval.
Submitted by sidaqpreet1999 on

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relevant specific examples
Include more specific examples from your own experience or knowledge to strengthen the argument about the impact of social media on travel behavior.
introduction conclusion present
Consider providing a stronger conclusion that ties back to the introduction, reinforcing the central ideas discussed.
complete response
The essay presents a thoughtful analysis of the impact of social media on travel behavior, with a clear focus on the trend of taking photographs rather than engaging with the destination.
clear comprehensive ideas
Ideas are clearly articulated and well-developed, outlining both positive and negative aspects of the trend.
logical structure
The essay has a logical structure, with paragraphs that flow smoothly from one to the next.

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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