Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: How Cultural Diversity Impacts Global Business

In recent years, the topic of cultural diversity’s impact on global business has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This trend reflects the growing importance of cross-cultural understanding in our interconnected world. As an IELTS instructor, I’ve observed this theme appearing more frequently, and I predict it will continue to be a popular subject in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in past exams and could likely resurface:

Some people say that the world has become more globalized and it is therefore no longer necessary to preserve cultural diversity. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Table of Contents

Analyzing the Question

This question asks for your opinion on whether globalization has made cultural diversity preservation unnecessary. Key points to consider:

The statement presents a cause-effect relationship between globalization and cultural diversity.
You need to express your level of agreement or disagreement.
Your response should discuss both globalization and cultural diversity preservation.

Sample Essays

Band 8-9 Essay

In today’s interconnected world, the assertion that globalization has rendered the preservation of cultural diversity unnecessary is a contentious one. While it is true that globalization has brought cultures closer together, I strongly disagree with the notion that this negates the importance of maintaining cultural diversity. In fact, I believe that preserving distinct cultural identities is more crucial than ever in our globalized society.

Firstly, cultural diversity is a source of innovation and creativity in the global marketplace. When people from different cultural backgrounds collaborate, they bring unique perspectives and problem-solving approaches to the table. This diversity of thought often leads to more innovative solutions and products that can cater to a wider range of global consumers. For instance, multinational companies like Google and Apple have consistently attributed their success to the diverse cultural backgrounds of their employees, which foster creativity and help them understand varied market needs.

Moreover, preserving cultural diversity is essential for maintaining global stability and mutual understanding. In a world where conflicts often arise from cultural misunderstandings, having a rich tapestry of cultures promotes empathy and respect among different groups. This cultural awareness is crucial for diplomacy, international relations, and peaceful coexistence. The United Nations, for example, consistently emphasizes the importance of cultural diversity in its peacekeeping missions and development programs.

Furthermore, cultural diversity plays a vital role in sustainable development. Many indigenous cultures possess unique knowledge about local ecosystems and sustainable practices that have been refined over generations. This traditional wisdom is invaluable in addressing global challenges such as climate change and resource management. The loss of these cultures would mean the loss of potentially life-saving knowledge that could benefit humanity as a whole.

In conclusion, while globalization has indeed brought the world closer together, it has not diminished the importance of cultural diversity. On the contrary, in our increasingly interconnected world, the preservation of diverse cultural identities is more critical than ever for fostering innovation, maintaining global harmony, and ensuring sustainable development. It is our collective responsibility to celebrate and protect the rich cultural tapestry that makes our global society so vibrant and resilient.

(Word count: 329)

Band 6-7 Essay

In today’s world, globalization has made different cultures come closer together. Some people think this means we don’t need to keep different cultures anymore. I disagree with this idea because I believe cultural diversity is still important even in a globalized world.

First, having different cultures helps businesses be more creative. When people from different backgrounds work together, they can come up with new ideas. This is good for making products that many people around the world will like. For example, big companies like Apple have workers from many countries, which helps them make phones and computers that are popular everywhere.

Also, keeping different cultures helps people understand each other better. If we all knew about different cultures, there might be fewer fights between countries. This is important for world peace. The United Nations often talks about how important it is to respect all cultures to avoid conflicts.

Lastly, some cultures have special knowledge that can help everyone. For example, some indigenous people know a lot about nature and how to protect it. This knowledge could help us fight problems like climate change. If we lose these cultures, we might lose this important information.

In conclusion, even though the world is more connected now, I think it’s still very important to keep different cultures. It helps businesses, makes the world more peaceful, and gives us valuable knowledge. We should try to protect all the different cultures in the world.

(Word count: 235)

Cultural diversity in global business

Key Considerations When Writing

Vocabulary: For higher band scores, use sophisticated vocabulary related to culture and business. For example:
- Band 8-9: “contentious”, “negates”, “innovation”, “tapestry of cultures”
- Band 6-7: “creative”, “backgrounds”, “indigenous”
Grammar: Higher band essays should demonstrate a range of complex structures:
- Band 8-9: Use of conditional sentences, passive voice, and complex noun phrases
- Band 6-7: Mostly simple and compound sentences, with some attempt at complex structures
Coherence and Cohesion:
- Band 8-9: Smooth paragraph transitions, varied linking words
- Band 6-7: Basic paragraph structure, common linking words
Task Response:
- Band 8-9: Fully addresses all parts of the task with well-developed ideas
- Band 6-7: Addresses the task, but some points may be insufficiently developed
Examples:
- Band 8-9: Specific, relevant examples (e.g., Google, Apple, United Nations)
- Band 6-7: More general examples or personal experiences

Essential Vocabulary

Cultural diversity (noun) /ˈkʌltʃərəl daɪˈvɜːrsəti/: The existence of different cultures or ethnic groups within a society.
Globalization (noun) /ˌɡləʊbəlaɪˈzeɪʃn/: The process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence.
Indigenous (adjective) /ɪnˈdɪdʒənəs/: Originating or occurring naturally in a particular place.
Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/: The action or process of innovating; a new method, idea, product, etc.
Interconnected (adjective) /ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪd/: Mutually joined or related.
Multinational (adjective) /ˌmʌltiˈnæʃnəl/: Operating in several countries.
Preserve (verb) /prɪˈzɜːv/: Maintain (something) in its original or existing state.
Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
Tapestry (noun) /ˈtæpɪstri/: Used figuratively to describe a complex or varied sequence of events.
Vibrant (adjective) /ˈvaɪbrənt/: Full of energy and life.

Conclusion

The impact of cultural diversity on global business remains a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. As you prepare for your exam, consider practicing with similar questions such as:

How does cultural diversity contribute to a company’s success in the global market?
Should businesses adapt their practices to local cultures when operating internationally?
What are the challenges and benefits of managing a culturally diverse workforce?

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice. Try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in your IELTS exam.

For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:

Good luck with your IELTS preparation!