Globalization’s impact on local businesses 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 due to its relevance in today’s interconnected world. Let’s explore this theme through sample essays and in-depth analysis to help you prepare for your IELTS exam.
Globalization's effect on local businesses
Analyzing the Task 2 Question
Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:
Some people believe that globalization has a negative effect on local businesses and traditional ways of life. Others think it provides more opportunities for local businesses to grow. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Question Breakdown:
- Topic: The impact of globalization on local businesses and traditional lifestyles
- Task: Discuss both perspectives and provide your opinion
- Key points to address:
- Negative effects on local businesses and traditions
- Opportunities for local business growth
- Your personal stance on the issue
Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Response
Globalization has become an integral part of our modern world, significantly impacting local economies and traditional ways of life. While some argue that this global interconnectedness poses a threat to local businesses and cultural practices, others believe it opens up new avenues for growth and prosperity. In my opinion, while globalization does present challenges, its benefits for local businesses outweigh the drawbacks when approached strategically.
Those who view globalization negatively often point to the displacement of small, local businesses by large multinational corporations. For instance, the arrival of global retail giants in developing countries has sometimes led to the closure of family-owned shops that have been cornerstones of communities for generations. Moreover, the homogenization of consumer culture can erode traditional practices and local identities, as global trends overshadow indigenous customs and products.
On the other hand, proponents of globalization argue that it creates unprecedented opportunities for local businesses to expand their reach. The internet and e-commerce platforms have enabled even the smallest enterprises to access global markets, selling unique local products to customers worldwide. Furthermore, globalization often brings increased foreign investment and tourism, which can stimulate local economies and create new job opportunities in various sectors.
In my view, while the challenges posed by globalization are real, they are not insurmountable. Local businesses can leverage the advantages of global connectivity while maintaining their unique identities. For example, artisanal crafts from rural areas can find niche markets globally, preserving traditional skills while generating income. Additionally, local businesses can adapt global best practices to improve efficiency and competitiveness without compromising their core values.
To conclude, I believe that globalization, when approached with a balance of openness and cultural preservation, can be a powerful force for local business growth and community development. The key lies in embracing the opportunities while implementing policies that protect and promote local industries and traditions. By doing so, communities can reap the benefits of global integration while maintaining their unique cultural heritage.
(Word count: 309)
Essay Analysis:
This essay demonstrates characteristics of a high band score (8-9) for several reasons:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph has a central topic, and ideas are logically linked.
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Examples include “homogenization of consumer culture,” “erode traditional practices,” and “unprecedented opportunities.”
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. Complex sentences are used effectively, such as “Those who view globalization negatively often point to the displacement of small, local businesses by large multinational corporations.”
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Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of the topic.
Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Response
Globalization is a topic that often divides opinion, especially when it comes to its effect on local businesses and traditional lifestyles. Some people think it has a negative impact, while others see it as an opportunity for growth. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On one hand, globalization can harm local businesses. Big international companies often enter local markets and compete with small businesses. For example, when large supermarket chains open in small towns, they can force local shops to close because they can’t compete on price. This can change the character of communities and lead to job losses. Also, global trends can make traditional products less popular, which affects local craftsmen and artisans.
However, globalization also creates opportunities for local businesses to grow. The internet allows small companies to sell their products to customers all over the world. For instance, a small handicraft business in Vietnam can now sell its products to customers in Europe or America through online platforms. Globalization also brings more tourists to many places, which can help local businesses in the hospitality and service sectors.
In my opinion, while globalization does present some challenges to local businesses, it also offers many benefits if approached correctly. Local businesses can use global connections to their advantage while still keeping their unique local identity. They can learn from international best practices to improve their operations and use technology to reach new customers.
To conclude, I believe that globalization can be positive for local businesses if they adapt to new opportunities while preserving their traditional strengths. It’s important for governments to support local businesses during this transition to ensure they can compete in the global market while maintaining local cultural values.
(Word count: 282)
Essay Analysis:
This essay demonstrates characteristics of a Band 6-7 score:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting both views and offering an opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear overall progression. Paragraphing is logical, but the use of cohesive devices could be more sophisticated.
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses an adequate range of vocabulary with some attempts at more sophisticated words (e.g., “artisans,” “hospitality sector”). However, the range and precision could be improved.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: There’s a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with generally good control. Some more complex structures are attempted, but there’s room for more variety.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported with examples, but they could be elaborated on further for a higher band score.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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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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Traditional (adjective) – /trəˈdɪʃənl/ – Existing in or as part of a tradition; long-established.
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Multinational (adjective) – /ˌmʌltɪˈnæʃənl/ – Operating in several countries.
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Homogenization (noun) – /həˌmɒdʒənaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – The process of making things uniform or similar.
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Indigenous (adjective) – /ɪnˈdɪdʒɪnəs/ – Originating or occurring naturally in a particular place; native.
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Artisanal (adjective) – /ɑːtɪˈzænl/ – Relating to or characteristic of an artisan.
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Niche market (noun phrase) – /niːʃ ˈmɑːkɪt/ – A specialized segment of the market for a particular kind of product or service.
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Competitiveness (noun) – /kəmˈpetətɪvnəs/ – The quality of being as good as or better than others of a comparable nature.
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Cultural heritage (noun phrase) – /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society.
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E-commerce (noun) – /ˈiː kɒmɜːs/ – Commercial transactions conducted electronically on the internet.
Conclusion
The topic of globalization’s effect on local businesses is a complex and nuanced one that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding different perspectives and being able to articulate them clearly, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle this topic in your exam.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The impact of globalization on traditional cultures
- The role of government in protecting local industries in a globalized economy
- The effects of multinational corporations on local job markets
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice. Try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you refine your skills and get valuable feedback.
For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:
- Globalization’s Impact on Local Cultures
- How Globalization is Affecting Traditional Industries
- Globalization’s Effect on Small Businesses
Keep practicing, and good luck with your IELTS preparation!