Globalization and its impact on local cultures 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 choice for future tests. Its relevance to modern society and the diverse perspectives it offers make it an ideal subject for assessing candidates’ critical thinking and writing skills.
Let’s examine a recent IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:
Some people think that globalization has negative effects on local traditions and cultures. Others believe it has positive impacts.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the negative effects of globalization on local traditions and cultures
- Explore the positive impacts of globalization on local traditions and cultures
- Present their own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced argument before stating your personal view.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8)
Globalization has undeniably transformed the world, and its impact on local traditions and cultures is a subject of intense debate. While some argue that it erodes cultural uniqueness, others contend that it enriches societies. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own stance on the issue.
Those who view globalization negatively often point to the homogenization of cultures. As multinational corporations expand their reach, local businesses and traditional practices may struggle to compete. For instance, the proliferation of fast-food chains in many countries has led to a decline in traditional eating habits and local cuisines. Furthermore, the dominance of English as a global language has resulted in the gradual disappearance of some indigenous languages, particularly in smaller communities.
On the other hand, proponents of globalization argue that it fosters cultural exchange and understanding. The internet and social media platforms have made it easier for people to share their traditions and learn about others, promoting global awareness and appreciation of diversity. Moreover, globalization has allowed for the preservation and revival of some cultural practices through increased exposure and tourism. For example, traditional crafts from developing countries have found new markets globally, helping to sustain local artisans and their heritage.
In my opinion, while globalization does pose challenges to local traditions, its benefits outweigh the drawbacks. The key lies in striking a balance between embracing global influences and preserving cultural identity. Communities can use the tools of globalization, such as technology and international markets, to promote and protect their unique traditions. This approach allows for cultural evolution while maintaining core values and practices.
In conclusion, globalization’s impact on local traditions and cultures is complex and multifaceted. By acknowledging both its potential threats and opportunities, societies can work towards harnessing the positive aspects of globalization while mitigating its negative effects on cultural heritage.
(Word count: 298)
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its Band 8 score:
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Clear structure: The essay follows a logical structure with a clear introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, and a conclusion that summarizes the main points and presents the writer’s opinion.
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Balanced argument: Both positive and negative aspects of globalization are discussed in detail, with specific examples to support each point.
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Cohesion and coherence: The essay uses a range of linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly, such as “Furthermore,” “On the other hand,” and “Moreover.”
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Lexical resource: The writer employs a wide range of vocabulary relevant to the topic, including “homogenization,” “indigenous languages,” and “cultural evolution.”
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Grammatical range and accuracy: The essay demonstrates the use of complex sentence structures and a variety of tenses without significant errors.
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Task response: All parts of the question are addressed, including both views and the writer’s own opinion, which is clearly stated and supported.
The benefits of mindfulness in schools can be seen as another positive aspect of globalization, as this practice has spread across cultures and been adopted in educational systems worldwide.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Globalization has changed the world a lot in recent years. Some people think it has hurt local traditions and cultures, while others believe it has had good effects. This essay will look at both sides of this issue and give my opinion.
On the negative side, globalization can make local cultures disappear. When big companies from other countries come in, they might push out small local businesses. For example, when McDonald’s opens in a new country, some traditional restaurants might close down. Also, young people might start to like foreign music and movies more than their own culture’s entertainment.
However, there are also positive effects of globalization on local cultures. The internet lets people share their traditions with others around the world. This can help keep some traditions alive and make people interested in learning about different cultures. Also, when people travel to other countries, they can bring back new ideas that might improve their own culture.
In my opinion, globalization has both good and bad effects on local cultures. I think it’s important to try to keep the good parts of our own culture while also learning from others. We can use technology to share our traditions and learn about other cultures at the same time.
To conclude, globalization affects local cultures in different ways. While it can threaten some traditions, it also offers chances to share and learn about different cultures. The key is to find a balance between keeping our own culture and accepting new ideas from around the world.
(Word count: 263)
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates features that place it in the Band 6-7 range:
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Structure: The essay has a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, and a conclusion. However, the development of ideas could be more thorough.
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Task response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both positive and negative aspects and providing a personal opinion. However, the arguments could be more fully developed with more specific examples.
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Cohesion and coherence: The essay uses some linking words and phrases, but the range is more limited compared to the Band 8 essay. Paragraphs are generally well-organized.
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Lexical resource: The vocabulary used is adequate for the task, but lacks the sophistication and range seen in higher band scores. There is some attempt to use topic-specific vocabulary.
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Grammatical range and accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control. There are some minor errors, but they do not impede communication.
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Examples: The essay provides some examples to support its points, but they could be more detailed and varied.
How to support children with emotional challenges is a topic that could be explored in the context of globalization’s impact on local cultures, as different societies may have varying approaches to child-rearing and emotional support.
Key Vocabulary
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Globalization (noun) – /ˌɡləʊbəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – The process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence or start operating on an international scale.
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Homogenization (noun) – /həˌmɒdʒənaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – The process of making things uniform or similar.
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Indigenous (adjective) – /ɪnˈdɪdʒənəs/ – Originating or occurring naturally in a particular place; native.
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Multifaceted (adjective) – /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features.
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Proliferation (noun) – /prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃən/ – Rapid increase in numbers or spread.
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Cultural evolution (noun phrase) – /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˌevəˈluːʃən/ – The process by which cultures change and develop over time.
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Heritage (noun) – /ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – Valued objects and qualities such as cultural traditions that have been passed down from previous generations.
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Artisans (noun) – /ˈɑːtɪzənz/ – Workers in a skilled trade, especially one that involves making things by hand.
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Mitigating (verb) – /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪtɪŋ/ – Making something less severe, serious, or painful.
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Cultural identity (noun phrase) – /ˈkʌltʃərəl aɪˈdentɪti/ – The identity of a group or culture, or of an individual as far as one is influenced by one’s belonging to a group or culture.
In conclusion, mastering essays on the advantages and disadvantages of globalization on local cultures requires a nuanced understanding of the topic and the ability to present balanced arguments. By studying these sample essays and analyzing their strengths, you can improve your own writing skills for IELTS Task 2. Remember to practice writing essays on similar topics, such as the impact of technology on traditional practices or the role of education in preserving cultural heritage.
To further enhance your skills, consider writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section below. This practice will help you apply the techniques and vocabulary you’ve learned, and potentially receive feedback from others. Additionally, you may want to explore how to promote mental health in education as another aspect of globalization’s influence on local cultures and educational systems.