WPE Prompts – Writer’s Resource Lab
Essay Topic
DIRECTIONS: You will have a total of 75 minutes to respond
to the topic below.
Write an analytical essay in which you express your
thoughts carefully, logically, and effectively.
Be sure to respond to all parts of the assignment.
Provide examples and evidence to support your ideas.
DO NOT WRITE ON A TOPIC OTHER THAN THE ONE ASSIGNED BELOW
In recent years, there has been a surge in popularity of
reality based T.V. shows. This has opened discussion
whether media products, such as Survivor, Joe Millionaire,
etc, influence societal attitudes and behavior. Some people
argue that reality shows are a detriment to society. They
contend that these shows foster notions of greed,
manipulation, and deceit. Yet others maintain that reality
shows are not, in any way, harmful to society. They charge
that the public recognizes the shows for what they truly
are, a mere construct of life experience – a “false”
reality – to be viewed simply as a form of entertainment.

Do you believe reality T.V. shows negatively influence
the attitudes and behavior and are, therefore,
detrimental to society? How so?

Support your answer with examples using personal
experience and/or your reading.