Pre-TOEFL writing, Face-to-face communication is better than other types of communication, such as letters, e-mail, or telephone calls

Writing Topic

Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Face-to-face communication is better than other types of communication, such as letters, e-mail, or telephone calls. Use specific reasons and details ot support your answer.

☆Let’s Think

Thinking of which type of communication you often use or prefer and why you do it may help brainstorm the points for the essay on this question. You could also sort out the situations in which either type of communication is used and the merits of the choice. Let’s not forget to make comparisons even though it is not required. To prove one is better than the other, comparison is necessary.

☆Sample Body Structures

Here are two samples of many ways of dealing with choices in the writing topic to make a framework of the body of your full essay.

Sample Body Structure 1  Point by point comparison of choices in terms of situations

   (1) Point 1: Comparison of the two in intimate communication

   (2) Point 2: Comparison of the two in non-intimate communication

   (3) Your idea

【Intimate communication】In intimate communication, face-to-face communication is better than other types of communication. Communication involves not only language but also non-verbal communication such as facial expression and tone of voice. Seeing someone in person provides all of these ingredients and helps mutual understanding and guarantees satisfaction of the interaction. E.g. Telling a good news to your beloved.

【Non-intimate communication】In non-intimate communication, face-to-face communication is not always necessary. E.g. Reporting the result of a simple task to a busy person who has given the task to you

【Your idea】Even in business, important issues are discussed face-to-face. When it is impossible, phone is used and email is the last choice. This shows that face-to-face communication is the best of all types of communication.

Sample Body Structure 2  Developing images of each choice (You write about each choice separately)

    (1) About face-to-face communication                            

    (2) About other types of communication

    (3) Your idea

【About face-to-face communication】Face-to-face communication serves to build trust and bond. E.g. first-time meeting with someone

【About other types of communication】Texts and rings not only supplement communication but also promote logical and deep thinking because you can focus on words. E.g. Choosing words carefully when presenting a new idea

【Your idea】Most things have both good points and bad points and this is also true with this comparison. Face-to-face communication is not always better than other types of communication.

♦Your Sample Essay Structure

【Introduction = Outline】

【Point 1】

【Point 2】

【Point 3/ Follow-up】

【Conclusion = Wrap-up】