“Linguistic Diversity Preservation” is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, reflecting its growing relevance in our globalized world. This topic explores the importance of protecting endangered languages and the cultural heritage they embody.
Examining past IELTS exams reveals that questions on language preservation often appear with slight variations, focusing on the causes of language endangerment, the impact of globalization, and the significance of safeguarding cultural identity.
Here are some recent IELTS Writing Task 2 questions related to this theme:
- Many languages are in danger of extinction because they are not spoken by enough people. Some people argue that we should only try to protect languages that have a practical use in the modern world. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
- Globalization has led to the dominance of a few major languages, threatening the survival of minority languages. What are the consequences of this trend, and what measures can be taken to address it?
Sample IELTS Writing Task 2 Question and Model Answer
For this exercise, we will focus on the first question:
Many languages are in danger of extinction because they are not spoken by enough people. Some people argue that we should only try to protect languages that have a practical use in the modern world. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analysis of the Question
This question requires you to present a clear stance on whether language preservation efforts should prioritize languages with practical modern-day applications or encompass all languages, regardless of their perceived utility.
Model Answer
It is an undeniable fact that numerous languages are on the verge of disappearing due to a shrinking number of speakers. While some believe that preservation efforts should focus solely on languages with practical uses in the contemporary world, I firmly disagree with this view.
Advocates of prioritizing languages with practical applications argue that resources are limited and should be directed toward languages that offer economic or social benefits. They contend that languages widely used in international commerce, science, or diplomacy deserve greater attention. For instance, English, Mandarin Chinese, and Spanish, being spoken by vast populations globally, are often cited as languages worthy of preservation due to their significance in facilitating global communication.
However, reducing languages to mere tools for communication overlooks their profound cultural and historical value. Each language embodies unique perspectives, traditions, and knowledge systems accumulated over generations. The loss of a language signifies the erosion of a culture’s intangible heritage, severing the link between past, present, and future generations. Moreover, linguistic diversity enriches the tapestry of human experience, offering valuable insights into different ways of thinking and understanding the world.
Preserving all languages, regardless of their perceived practicality, is crucial for maintaining cultural diversity and fostering intercultural understanding. Initiatives such as language documentation projects, bilingual education programs, and the promotion of language revitalization efforts can help safeguard endangered languages.
In conclusion, while it is essential to acknowledge the practical considerations in language preservation, limiting our efforts to languages with immediate utility would be a grave mistake. The intrinsic value of every language, as a repository of cultural heritage and a testament to human creativity, necessitates a comprehensive approach that champions the preservation of all languages.
Word count: 278 words
Diverse Languages
Writing Tips
- Clear Position: State your stance clearly in the introduction and maintain it throughout the essay.
- Balanced Argument: Acknowledge both sides of the argument, even if you disagree with one.
- Concrete Examples: Support your points with relevant examples to illustrate your arguments.
- Vocabulary Enhancement: Use a range of vocabulary related to language, culture, and preservation.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Use linking words and phrases to ensure a smooth flow of ideas.
Difficult Vocabulary
- Endangered (adjective): /ɪnˈdeɪn.dʒərd/ – Seriously at risk of extinction.
- Perceived (adjective): /pəˈsiːvd/ – Interpreted or regarded in a particular way.
- Utility (noun): /juːˈtɪl.ə.ti/ – The state of being useful, profitable, or beneficial.
- Embody (verb): /ɪmˈbɒd.i/ – To represent an idea or quality in a tangible form.
- Intangible (adjective): /ɪnˈtæn.dʒɪ.bl/ – Unable to be touched and not having physical presence.
- Erosion (noun): /ɪˈrəʊ.ʒən/ – The process of gradually destroying something or being gradually destroyed.
- Tapestry (noun): /ˈtæp.ɪ.stri/ – A rich and complex combination of things.
- Revitalization (noun): /riːˌvaɪ.təl.aɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/ – The process of making something stronger, more active, or more healthy.
Conclusion
Linguistic diversity preservation is a multifaceted issue with significant implications for cultural heritage, global understanding, and human knowledge. Preparing for this topic in your IELTS Writing Task 2 will equip you with the necessary language and arguments to articulate your views effectively. Remember to practice writing essays on similar topics, expand your vocabulary, and refine your grammar skills to achieve a high band score.
For further exploration of this topic, you can refer to these articles:
