The topic of art’s role in promoting social change is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on an analysis of past exams and current trends, this subject is likely to appear with moderate frequency in future tests. Its relevance to contemporary social issues makes it an important area for IELTS candidates to explore. Let’s examine a recent question that aligns closely with this theme:
Some people think that the main purpose of art is to promote social change, while others believe that art should only be for entertainment. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question presents two contrasting viewpoints on the purpose of art:
- Art’s main purpose is to promote social change
- Art should only be for entertainment
The task requires candidates to:
- Discuss both perspectives
- Provide their own opinion
A balanced approach is crucial, addressing both sides before presenting a well-reasoned personal stance.
Sample Essay for Band 8
Art has long been a subject of debate regarding its primary purpose in society. While some argue that art should primarily serve as a catalyst for social change, others contend that its sole purpose should be entertainment. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint on this multifaceted issue.
Proponents of art as a vehicle for social change argue that artists have a responsibility to use their talents to address societal issues and inspire transformation. They believe that art has the power to challenge existing norms, raise awareness about important topics, and motivate people to take action. For instance, protest songs during the civil rights movement in the United States played a crucial role in mobilizing support and spreading messages of equality. Similarly, politically charged murals and street art have often been used to critique oppressive regimes and advocate for human rights.
On the other hand, those who believe art should focus solely on entertainment argue that it provides a necessary escape from the pressures of daily life. They contend that art’s primary function is to bring joy, stimulate imagination, and offer relaxation. This perspective values art for its ability to enrich our lives through aesthetic pleasure and emotional experiences, without the burden of addressing complex social issues. For example, abstract paintings or classical music compositions may not have explicit social messages but can still profoundly impact individuals through their beauty and complexity.
In my opinion, while both views have merit, I believe that art serves multiple purposes and should not be limited to a single function. Art’s versatility allows it to simultaneously entertain, provoke thought, and inspire change. Many great works of art manage to blend social commentary with aesthetic appeal, demonstrating that these purposes are not mutually exclusive. For instance, literature often tackles serious social issues while still providing engaging narratives that captivate readers.
Moreover, the impact of art on society often transcends the artist’s original intentions. A piece created purely for entertainment may inadvertently spark important conversations or shift perspectives on social issues. Conversely, art aimed at promoting change can also bring joy and entertainment to its audience.
In conclusion, I believe that art’s role in society is multifaceted and should not be confined to either social change or entertainment alone. The beauty of art lies in its ability to serve various purposes simultaneously, enriching our lives while also challenging us to think critically about the world around us.
(Word count: 395)
Protest mural addressing social issues
Explanation of Band 8 Score
This essay would likely receive a Band 8 score for the following reasons:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting the writer’s own opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. It uses a variety of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “On the other hand,” “Moreover,” “For instance”).
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Lexical Resource: The essay demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary used with flexibility and precision (e.g., “multifaceted issue,” “catalyst for social change,” “aesthetic pleasure”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. There are no noticeable errors, and it includes complex sentences and structures.
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Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations. The writer’s opinion is justified with clear reasoning.
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Art has always been an important part of human society. Some people think that the main job of art is to make social change happen, while others believe it should just be for fun. This essay will look at both ideas and give my own thoughts.
People who say art should cause social change think artists have a duty to use their skills to help make the world better. They believe art can make people think about important problems and want to do something about them. For example, some songs have helped people fight for their rights, and some paintings show the bad things happening in society.
On the other side, people who think art should just be for entertainment say that it helps us relax and feel happy. They think art doesn’t need to have a big message, but should just be something nice to look at or listen to. Like how some music just makes us feel good without talking about any problems.
I think both ideas have some truth. Art can do many things at the same time. It can make us think about important things and also make us happy. Some of the best art does both. For example, a good movie might make us laugh but also teach us something important.
Also, sometimes art that was just made for fun ends up making people think about serious things anyway. And art that was trying to change things might also be very entertaining.
To sum up, I believe art can be both for social change and for entertainment. It doesn’t have to be just one thing. The best art often does many things at once, which is what makes it so special and important.
(Word count: 292)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay would likely receive a Band 6-7 score for the following reasons:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and presenting the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated than in the Band 8 essay.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, but lacks the precision and sophistication of higher band scores. There is some attempt at less common vocabulary (e.g., “duty,” “society”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are no major errors that impede communication.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported, but the examples and explanations are less detailed and nuanced compared to the Band 8 essay.
The impact of social media influencers on mental health is another topic that often intersects with discussions about art and social change in modern society. As we consider the role of art, it’s important to recognize how new forms of creative expression, including social media content, can influence public opinion and social norms.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Catalyst (noun) – /ˈkætəlɪst/ – Something that causes an important change or event to happen
- Profound (adjective) – /prəˈfaʊnd/ – Very great or intense
- Versatility (noun) – /ˌvɜːrsəˈtɪləti/ – The ability to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities
- Inadvertently (adverb) – /ˌɪnədˈvɜːrtəntli/ – Without intention; accidentally
- Transcend (verb) – /trænˈsend/ – To go beyond the usual limits of something
- Multifaceted (adjective) – /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features
- Aesthetic (adjective) – /esˈθetɪk/ – Concerned with beauty or the appreciation of beauty
- Provoke (verb) – /prəˈvoʊk/ – To stimulate or give rise to (a reaction or emotion, typically a strong or unwelcome one)
- Regime (noun) – /reɪˈʒiːm/ – A government, especially an authoritarian one
- Critique (verb) – /krɪˈtiːk/ – To evaluate (something) in a detailed and analytical way
Art gallery exhibition showcasing diverse artworks
Conclusion
The Role Of Art In Promoting Social Change remains a relevant and thought-provoking topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. As you prepare for your exam, consider practicing with similar questions that explore the intersection of art, society, and social issues. For instance, you might encounter prompts about the government’s role in funding art, the impact of digital media on traditional art forms, or the influence of advertising on societal values, which often involves artistic elements.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to fully address the question, provide relevant examples, and clearly express your own opinion when required. Practice writing essays on various aspects of art and society to build your confidence and skills.
We encourage you to try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your writing skills and receive feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam. Good luck with your IELTS journey!
