Globalization’s influence on traditional family structures is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular subject due to its relevance in our rapidly changing world. Let’s explore this theme through sample essays for different band scores, providing you with valuable insights to enhance your writing skills.
Analyzing the Essay Question
Some people think that globalization has negative effects on traditional family structures. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question asks for your opinion on how globalization impacts traditional family structures. It’s crucial to:
- Clearly state your position
- Provide balanced arguments
- Support your points with relevant examples
- Conclude by summarizing your stance
Let’s examine three sample essays addressing this question, each targeting a different band score.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
High Band Score Essay
In the era of globalization, the traditional family structure has undergone significant transformations. While some argue that these changes are detrimental, I believe that the impact of globalization on family structures is largely positive, albeit with some challenges.
Globalization has undoubtedly altered family dynamics in several ways. Increased mobility and connectivity have led to more geographically dispersed families, with members often living and working in different countries. This separation can strain relationships and weaken traditional family bonds. Moreover, the influx of diverse cultural influences through media and migration has challenged long-held family values and traditions in many societies.
However, I contend that these changes have brought more benefits than drawbacks. Firstly, globalization has fostered greater independence and personal growth among family members. The opportunity to study or work abroad enables individuals to broaden their horizons and develop new skills, ultimately contributing to their family’s well-being. Secondly, advancements in communication technology have allowed families to maintain close connections despite physical distance. Video calls, instant messaging, and social media platforms have made it possible for families to share experiences and support each other in real-time, regardless of location.
Furthermore, globalization has promoted more egalitarian family structures. As global norms of gender equality spread, traditional patriarchal systems are being challenged, leading to more balanced power dynamics within families. Women, in particular, have gained increased opportunities for education and career advancement, allowing them to contribute more significantly to family decisions and finances.
Nevertheless, it is important to acknowledge the challenges posed by globalization to family structures. The erosion of certain cultural traditions and the potential for intergenerational conflicts due to differing values are valid concerns. However, I argue that families can adapt to these changes while preserving their core values and strengthening their bonds through open communication and mutual understanding.
In conclusion, while globalization has undoubtedly transformed traditional family structures, I believe these changes are predominantly positive. The benefits of increased opportunities, improved communication, and more equitable family dynamics outweigh the potential drawbacks. As societies continue to evolve, families can embrace the positive aspects of globalization while consciously preserving the values that are most important to them.
(Word count: 345)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a high band score (8-9) for several reasons:
- Clear position: The writer clearly states their opinion in the introduction and maintains it throughout.
- Coherent structure: The essay follows a logical structure with clear paragraphs for introduction, main arguments, and conclusion.
- Balanced argument: While supporting globalization’s positive impact, the essay acknowledges counterarguments.
- Sophisticated vocabulary: The writer uses a range of advanced vocabulary accurately (e.g., “geographically dispersed,” “egalitarian,” “intergenerational conflicts”).
- Complex sentence structures: The essay employs a mix of simple and complex sentences, showcasing linguistic flexibility.
- Relevant examples: The writer provides specific examples to support their points, such as communication technology and changing gender roles.
- Strong conclusion: The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points and restates the writer’s position.
Globalization's impact on family structure
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Mid-Range Band Score Essay
Nowadays, globalization is changing many aspects of our lives, including family structures. Some people believe this change is negative, but I partly disagree with this view.
On one hand, globalization can cause some problems for traditional families. When family members move to different countries for work or study, they may not see each other often. This can make relationships weaker. Also, young people might prefer modern lifestyles they see online, which can lead to conflicts with older family members who want to keep traditions.
However, I think globalization also brings good things to families. For example, new technology helps families stay connected even when they are far apart. They can use video calls to talk and share important moments. Moreover, globalization gives people more chances to learn about other cultures, which can make them more open-minded and understanding.
Another positive effect is that globalization can make families more equal. In many countries, women now have more opportunities to work and study, just like men. This can change old-fashioned ideas about family roles and make relationships fairer.
Of course, there are still challenges. Some traditions might be lost as families adopt new ways of living. But I think families can find ways to keep important traditions while also accepting positive changes from globalization.
In conclusion, while globalization does change traditional family structures, I believe these changes are not all negative. Families can benefit from new opportunities and better communication, even as they face some challenges. It’s important for families to find a balance between keeping valuable traditions and embracing positive aspects of global change.
(Word count: 272)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a mid-range band score (6-7) for the following reasons:
- Clear position: The writer states their opinion, although it could be more explicitly expressed in the introduction.
- Adequate structure: The essay has a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
- Some balanced argument: The writer acknowledges both positive and negative aspects of globalization’s impact on families.
- Appropriate vocabulary: The essay uses some topic-specific vocabulary, though not as sophisticated as the Band 8-9 essay.
- Mixture of sentence structures: There is a combination of simple and complex sentences, but less variety than in higher band essays.
- Basic examples: The writer provides some examples to support their points, though they could be more specific or developed.
- Conclusion: The conclusion summarizes the main points and restates the writer’s position, but could be more nuanced.
Sample Essay for Band 5-6
Lower Band Score Essay
Globalization is changing many things in our world today, including families. Some people think this is bad for traditional families. I think it has both good and bad effects.
Globalization can cause problems for families. Sometimes family members have to move far away for jobs. This means they can’t see each other often. Also, young people might want to live differently from their parents because of things they see on the internet. This can cause arguments in families.
But globalization also has good points for families. New technology like smartphones and computers helps families talk to each other even when they are in different countries. This is good for keeping families close. Also, people can learn about other cultures, which can make them more understanding.
Globalization can also change how families work. In some places, women can now get better jobs and education. This can make families more equal. But it might also change old ways of doing things in families.
Some traditions might be lost because of globalization. But families can try to keep important traditions while also changing some things.
In conclusion, I think globalization has both good and bad effects on traditional families. It’s important for families to try to keep good traditions but also accept some new ideas.
(Word count: 219)
Analysis of Band 5-6 Essay
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a lower band score (5-6) for the following reasons:
- Basic position: The writer’s opinion is stated, but it’s not very clear or strong.
- Simple structure: The essay has a basic structure, but paragraphs are short and not well-developed.
- Limited argument: The writer mentions both positive and negative aspects, but the arguments lack depth.
- Simple vocabulary: The essay uses mostly common words and phrases, with limited topic-specific vocabulary.
- Simple sentences: Most sentences are short and simple, with few complex structures.
- Limited examples: The writer provides some basic examples, but they are not well-elaborated.
- Basic conclusion: The conclusion restates the main idea but doesn’t add much to the essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Globalization (noun) /ˌɡləʊbəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – the process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence or start operating on an international scale
- Traditional (adjective) /trəˈdɪʃənl/ – existing in or as part of a tradition; long-established
- Family structure (noun phrase) /ˈfæməli ˈstrʌktʃər/ – the composition and membership of the family and the organization and patterning of relationships among individual family members
- Dynamics (noun) /daɪˈnæmɪks/ – the forces or properties which stimulate growth, development, or change within a system or process
- Egalitarian (adjective) /ɪˌɡæləˈteəriən/ – believing in or based on the principle that all people are equal and deserve equal rights and opportunities
- Patriarchal (adjective) /ˌpeɪtriˈɑːkl/ – relating to or characteristic of a system of society or government controlled by men
- Intergenerational (adjective) /ˌɪntəˌdʒenəˈreɪʃənl/ – relating to, involving, or affecting several generations
- Erosion (noun) /ɪˈrəʊʒn/ – the gradual destruction or diminution of something
- Adaptation (noun) /ˌædæpˈteɪʃn/ – the process of changing to suit different conditions
- Connectivity (noun) /ˌkɒnekˈtɪvəti/ – the state of being connected or interconnected
Conclusion
The impact of globalization on traditional family structures is a complex and nuanced topic that requires careful consideration. By studying these sample essays and understanding the criteria for different band scores, you can improve your own writing skills for IELTS Task 2.
Remember to practice writing your own essays on this topic and related themes. You might consider exploring how globalization affects specific aspects of family life, such as:
- The role of technology in maintaining family relationships across borders
- Changes in intergenerational relationships due to global influences
- The impact of global migration on family structures
- How global economic trends affect family dynamics
We encourage you to write your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your skills and receive feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.
For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:
- How Globalization is Affecting Traditional Family Values
- The Pros and Cons of Moving Away from Family to Find Work
- Describe a Traditional Festival Celebrated in Your Country
Keep practicing, and good luck with your IELTS preparation!