TOEFL essay sample: Sports or Art?

[Aria]

Toefl essay sample

TOEFL listening lectures: A lecture from an Art History class

[Alan]

Hi,

My suggestions are in CAPITAL letters:

Since the time prehistoric man started leading a settled life, he felt the need to indulge in leisure activities like sports or the arts. The cave paintings of the stone age people and various idols found at archaeological sites provide ample evidence of this.

Even in the modern age, recreation has become a very important part of our life, wherein, stressed and overworked professionals and students find the right outlet by engaging in a weekend of tennis or even aN evening at the opera.

Sports, both outdoor and indoor, if played regularly , aid in the maintenance of a fit body. Besides this, they keep your mind sharp and alert. Research has shown that during the exercise that is provided by most sports, stress busting chemicals are released and the person feels euphoric. Most games are played in teams and the interaction between the players is instrumental in developing a good personality and healthy team spirit.

Indulging in the arts like painting, theatre, dance is also a very effective way of spending leisure time. Admiring the works of art by the great painters like Da Vinci, Van Gogh, etc gives us great pleasure and relaxes our mind. And who can forget the joy of watching a comedy by Shakespeare ? The performances in theatre are a reflection of real life and may help us to deal with some of our problems. Through dance one can not only express thoughts and feelings but have the added benefit of exercise as well. It is no wonder that most fitness programs include a little bit of dancing for weight management.

I prefer to take my mind off my work by playing sports like table tennis or badminton. I’m/HAVE benefited greatly by the workout it gives me and thus I remain in shape. Also when I play , I feel relaxed and tension free. The time I spend with my buddies on the court is precious as I can bond with them and discuss everyday problems. I have also realized that after a game, my mind remains sharp and full of enthusiasm. I enjoy theatre and other forms of art too, but, considering all the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of sport , it will remain my preferred form of recreation.

Well done

Alan

[Aria]

Thanks Alan.