Living in a new country and adapting to its lifestyle has become one of the recurring themes in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams from 2018-2023, this topic appears approximately 2-3 times per year, particularly in questions about migration, cultural adaptation, and international student experiences. Let’s examine a frequently tested question format on this theme.
Sample Question Analysis
Some people believe that when moving to a new country, immigrants should adapt to the local lifestyle completely and abandon their original culture. Others think immigrants should maintain their own cultural identities. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Question Breakdown:
- Topic: Cultural adaptation of immigrants
- Task: Discussion + Opinion
- Key elements to address:
- Complete adaptation to local lifestyle
- Maintaining original cultural identity
- Personal stance with justification
Band 8 Sample Essay
In the contemporary globalized world, the question of whether immigrants should fully embrace their host country’s lifestyle or preserve their cultural heritage has become increasingly relevant. While both approaches have their merits, I believe a balanced integration of both cultures offers the most beneficial outcome.
Those who advocate for complete adaptation argue that it facilitates smoother integration into the host society. When immigrants fully adopt local customs, language, and social norms, they often face fewer barriers in professional and social settings. For instance, Asian professionals working in Western countries who embrace local business etiquette and communication styles typically advance more quickly in their careers. Moreover, complete adaptation can help prevent cultural isolation and promote social cohesion within communities.
However, maintaining one’s original cultural identity carries significant advantages. Cultural diversity enriches the host society by introducing new perspectives, traditions, and innovations. Take the example of how Indian immigrants have transformed Britain’s culinary landscape, making curry a national favorite. Furthermore, preserving one’s cultural roots provides psychological stability and a sense of identity, particularly for first-generation immigrants.
In my opinion, the ideal approach lies in striking a balance between adaptation and preservation. Immigrants should embrace essential aspects of their new country’s lifestyle while retaining valuable elements of their heritage. This “integration” model allows individuals to function effectively in their new environment while contributing to its cultural diversity. For example, many successful immigrant communities in Canada maintain their traditional festivals and customs while actively participating in local civic life and adhering to Canadian social norms.
Successful cultural integration showing traditional and modern elements
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Nowadays, many people move to different countries, and there is a debate about whether they should completely change their lifestyle or keep their own culture. This essay will discuss both views and present my opinion.
Some people think immigrants should fully adapt to the new country’s way of life. When people follow local customs and speak the local language, they can make friends more easily and find better jobs. For example, if someone moves to America, they need to learn English and understand American culture to work well with others. Also, following local customs helps avoid misunderstandings and shows respect for the host country.
On the other hand, keeping one’s original culture is also important. Every culture has special traditions and values that make people feel connected to their roots. Many immigrants want their children to know about their homeland’s culture, language, and traditions. Additionally, different cultures can make a country more interesting and diverse. For instance, in many cities, cultural festivals from different countries make life more colorful.
I think the best solution is to mix both cultures. Immigrants can learn the new country’s ways while keeping their own traditions. This helps them succeed in their new home while staying true to their identity. For example, many Chinese people in other countries celebrate both Chinese New Year and local holidays, showing how both cultures can exist together.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8 Essay Strengths:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear progression of ideas with strong examples
- Balanced discussion with well-supported opinion
- Coherent paragraphing with effective linking
- Error-free grammar
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Basic but clear vocabulary
- Simple but logical organization
- Some examples, though less developed
- Basic linking words
- Occasional grammatical errors
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Cultural heritage (n) /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – traditions passed down through generations
- Integration (n) /ˌɪntɪˈɡreɪʃn/ – the process of joining and becoming part of a society
- Social cohesion (n) /ˈsəʊʃl kəʊˈhiːʒn/ – unity between social groups
- Cultural diversity (n) /ˈkʌltʃərəl daɪˈvɜːsɪti/ – presence of different cultures
- Assimilation (n) /əˌsɪmɪˈleɪʃn/ – complete adaptation to another culture
Conclusion
For future practice, consider writing about similar topics like:
- The impact of globalization on local cultures
- Benefits and drawbacks of multicultural societies
- Cultural preservation in the digital age
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions. Remember to follow the essay structure demonstrated in the sample essays while incorporating your unique perspectives and examples.
