Question
In some countries,TV programmes are transmitted throughout the day and night. Some people think that 24-hour TV transmission is a positive development, while others it is negative.
Sample answer
In many countries, 24-hour TV programmes are now transmitted throughout day and night. Some people think this is a positive development, but others do not think so. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Since television was invented, it has become a crucial source of information and indispensable tool for leisure activities. However, the debate about its influence on our society has never stopped, especially since in recent years, TV programmes have the ability to be on the air day and night.
Obviously 24-hour running TV programmes fulfill a need to certain groups of audiences. They include night shift workers who have a totally different schedule from housewives or retired people. Some sports fans would stay up late at night in order to watch the Olympic Games or any other live broadcast of international sports events. Also historic events such as the 9/11 attack are news-worthy events that need to be reported live. These live reports generate high viewership and therefore allow TV stations to attract more advertising, increasing revenues.
However, 24-hour TV broadcasting can be unprofitable since during certain time slots few people watch TV. A large part of news coverage is dedicated to re-runs，casting doubt on viewership of any significance. Another possible negative effect in 24/7 TV transmitting is that it encourages a sedentary lifestyle which is ultimately unhealthy. The term “couch potato” seems to perfectly describe those that espouse this behavior, and children in particular are vulnerable to the addicting effects of television programs.
In general, abundant TV programs are free for people to access; however, this does not mean that they are a positive influence to the viewing public. In fact, it would be much more meaningful to devote more of our precious time to activities that add value to our lives and to the lives of the people around us.
