EF p 117. Art and Entertainment. Monologue. Speaking Sample




Discuss these questions:

1. Films are a powerful form of artistic expression that can both inspire and educate. Discuss the impact of cinema on society, considering its influence on culture, values, and social change.

2. Is it fair to claim that some works of art hold greater cultural value than others, or should artistic value be determined by audience perception and appreciation? What truly gives art its value? 

3. How does art make our lives better? Think about its role in our emotions, culture, and society. Does art help us express ourselves, learn new things, or see the world differently? Would life be fulfilling in the absence of art?



Sample answer:

The Role and Value of Art in Society

First of all, I’d like to point out that films are a powerful form of artistic expression that influence our society in profound ways. It is generally accepted that cinema has the ability to inspire, educate, and provoke thought. For example, films can (1)____________ awareness of social issues, as seen in documentaries that highlight climate change or human rights violations. Moreover, they shape cultural values and reflect societal norms. A case in (2)___________ is how films from different eras portray gender roles, influencing how we perceive relationships and identity.

This (3)_____________ directly to my next point: how we determine the value of art. There can be no (4)_____________ that some works of art are considered more culturally significant than others. However, should this judgement be based on historical prestige, expert opinion, or public appreciation? To my (5)____________, art derives its value from its impact—how it resonates (6)__________ people, challenges perspectives, and stands the test of (7)____________. Besides, what is considered ‘high art’ today may not have been appreciated in its own era. Take Van Gogh, for instance; his work was largely dismissed during his lifetime, yet today, it is regarded (8)____________ invaluable. This raises the question: does cultural elitism protect or limit artistic expression? In my opinion, while it can preserve heritage, it also risks alienating innovative and accessible forms of art.

Speaking (9)___________ accessibility, let’s now take a look at the broader impact of art on our lives. Nobody will (10)____________ that art enriches our daily existence, whether through music, literature, painting, (11)____________ cinema. It is a fact that art allows us to express emotions, understand different cultures, and escape from reality. Furthermore, it inspires creativity, helping individuals find meaning and identity. In (12)_____________ to that, art has therapeutic benefits, as seen in art therapy, which helps people cope (13)_____________ stress and trauma. Could we live happily without art? Frankly, I don’t think (14)_____________. Even in the most practical aspects of life, from architecture to fashion, artistic influence is everywhere.

Finally, and perhaps most (15)______________, art serves as a bridge between past, present, and future, preserving heritage (16)____________ also shaping new ideas. All in (17)______________, its significance cannot be overstated. (18)____________ conclusion, I would say that art, in all its forms, (19)_____________ an essential role in society, culture, and personal development. To cut a long story (20)_____________, art is not just a luxury—it is a necessity.



KEY




1. raise





2. point





3. leads





4. doubt





5. mind/ knowledge





6. with





7. time





8. as





9. of





10. deny





11. or





12. addition





13. with





14. so






15. importantly





16. while





17. all





18. In





19. plays





20. short