Traditional arts and crafts have been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately 2-3 times annually. Based on recent exam patterns, questions about preserving cultural heritage and traditional crafts are likely to continue featuring prominently, especially given growing global interest in cultural preservation.
Traditional craftsman teaching young apprentice modern interpretation of ancient art
Analysis of Selected Question
Some people believe that traditional arts and crafts (like pottery, weaving, etc.) have no place in modern society and should be allowed to disappear. Others think these skills should be preserved. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for letting traditional crafts fade away
- Present reasons for preserving these skills
- Provide a personal perspective with supporting evidence
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
In today’s rapidly evolving world, there is ongoing debate about whether traditional craftsmanship should be maintained or allowed to naturally decline. While some argue that these ancient skills have become obsolete, I firmly believe that preserving traditional arts and crafts is crucial for both cultural and practical reasons.
Those who support letting traditional crafts disappear often point to their decreased practical relevance in our modern, mechanized world. Mass production has made handcrafted items comparatively expensive and time-consuming to produce. Moreover, younger generations are increasingly drawn to digital careers, making it challenging to find apprentices willing to learn these traditional skills.
However, the preservation of traditional arts and crafts serves multiple valuable purposes. Firstly, these skills represent our cultural heritage and maintain connections to our ancestral knowledge. Traditional craft techniques often embody sustainable practices and use local, natural materials – principles that are increasingly relevant in our environmentally conscious era. Furthermore, many traditional crafts are being innovatively adapted to contemporary contexts, creating unique fusion products that command premium prices in global markets.
Additionally, traditional craftsmanship contributes to local economies and tourism. Countries like Japan and India have successfully integrated traditional arts into their modern economic landscape, where master craftsmen not only preserve ancient techniques but also create contemporary interpretations that appeal to modern consumers.
In my opinion, while modernization is inevitable, traditional arts and crafts should be actively preserved through education programs, government support, and innovative adaptation. The key lies in finding ways to make these skills relevant to contemporary life while maintaining their cultural authenticity.
Artisan combining traditional weaving techniques with modern design elements
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
The role of traditional arts and crafts in modern society is a topic of debate. Some people think these old skills are not useful anymore, while others want to keep them. I believe these traditional skills are important and should be preserved.
People who think traditional crafts should disappear have some good points. Modern factories can make things faster and cheaper than traditional craftsmen. Also, many young people prefer to work with computers and technology instead of learning old crafts. They think these skills are not useful for making money in today’s world.
However, there are strong reasons to keep traditional arts and crafts. These skills are part of our culture and help us remember our history. Traditional craftsmen often use natural materials and environmentally friendly methods. Some traditional crafts are becoming popular again because people want unique, handmade items.
Also, traditional crafts can help tourism. Tourists often want to buy traditional items and learn about local culture. This helps create jobs and preserve cultural knowledge. Many countries make money from selling traditional craft products to visitors.
I think we should keep traditional arts and crafts because they are important for our culture and can be useful in modern life. Schools should teach these skills, and governments should help traditional craftsmen continue their work.
Score Analysis
Band 8-9 Essay
- Task Response: Comprehensively addresses all parts of the task with well-developed arguments
- Coherence and Cohesion: Logical organization with clear progression
- Lexical Resource: Sophisticated vocabulary with natural and precise usage
- Grammar: Wide range of complex structures used accurately
Band 6-7 Essay
- Task Response: Addresses main aspects but with less depth
- Coherence and Cohesion: Clear overall progression but simpler linking
- Lexical Resource: Adequate vocabulary but less sophisticated
- Grammar: Mix of simple and complex structures with some errors
Key Vocabulary
- craftsmanship (n) /ˈkrɑːftsmənʃɪp/ – skill in a particular craft
- obsolete (adj) /ˌɒbsəˈliːt/ – no longer useful or relevant
- apprentice (n) /əˈprentɪs/ – person learning a trade from skilled employer
- sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – environmentally sound
- heritage (n) /ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – traditions passed down from previous generations
Looking ahead, expect similar questions about:
- Modern adaptations of traditional skills
- Economic value of cultural preservation
- Balance between tradition and innovation
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share in the comments for feedback!
