IELTS Writing Task 2: Cultural Diversity Benefits Society – Sample Essays and Analysis for Different Band Scores

Cultural diversity and its impact on society is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on past exam trends and the current global focus on multiculturalism, it’s highly likely that this topic will continue to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:

Some people believe that cultural diversity within a country has a positive effect on its development, while others argue that it leads to problems and conflicts. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question reflects the ongoing debate about the role of cultural diversity in societal progress. The role of cultural diversity in promoting global peace is a related topic that often comes up in such discussions. Let’s analyze the question and provide sample essays for different band scores.

Question Analysis

This question requires you to:

1. Discuss the positive effects of cultural diversity on a country’s development
2. Explore the potential problems and conflicts arising from cultural diversity
3. Present your own opinion on the matter

Remember to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced argument before stating your personal view.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Cultural diversity within a nation is a double-edged sword that can either foster growth or lead to discord. While I believe that the benefits of multiculturalism outweigh its drawbacks, it is crucial to examine both perspectives on this complex issue.

Proponents of cultural diversity argue that it drives innovation and economic growth. When people from different backgrounds come together, they bring varied perspectives and approaches to problem-solving. This diversity of thought can lead to breakthroughs in science, technology, and business. Moreover, a multicultural society often has stronger international connections, facilitating trade and diplomatic relations. Countries like the United States and Singapore have leveraged their cultural diversity to become global economic powerhouses.

On the other hand, critics contend that cultural diversity can lead to social fragmentation and conflict. When different cultural groups coexist, there may be clashes over values, traditions, and resources. This can result in discrimination, segregation, and even violence in extreme cases. For instance, some European countries have experienced tensions related to immigration and integration, leading to the rise of nationalist movements.

Despite these challenges, I firmly believe that cultural diversity is a net positive for a country’s development. The key lies in effective management of diversity through inclusive policies and education. By promoting intercultural understanding and creating a shared national identity that embraces diversity, countries can mitigate potential conflicts while reaping the benefits of a multicultural society.

In conclusion, while cultural diversity presents certain challenges, its potential to drive innovation, economic growth, and global cooperation far outweighs these issues. As our world becomes increasingly interconnected, nations that successfully harness the power of cultural diversity will be better positioned to thrive in the global landscape.

(Word count: 290)

Cultural diversity benefits society through innovation and economic growth

Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)

This essay demonstrates excellent coherence, cohesion, and language use, typical of a Band 8-9 response:

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both views and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Paragraphing is appropriate, and cohesive devices are used effectively.

3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. Examples include “double-edged sword,” “foster growth,” and “net positive.”

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of complex structures used accurately. For example, “While I believe that the benefits of multiculturalism outweigh its drawbacks, it is crucial to examine both perspectives on this complex issue.”

5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Cultural diversity in a country can have both positive and negative effects on its development. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.

On the one hand, cultural diversity can benefit a country’s development. When people from different cultures live together, they can share new ideas and ways of thinking. This can lead to more creativity and innovation in areas like business, art, and technology. For example, in the United States, many successful companies were started by immigrants or their children. Also, cultural diversity can make a country more interesting and attractive to tourists, which can help the economy.

However, some people believe that cultural diversity can cause problems. When there are many different cultures in one place, it can sometimes lead to misunderstandings and conflicts. People may have different values or beliefs that clash with each other. This can make it hard for everyone to get along and work together. In some countries, there have been tensions between different cultural groups that have led to discrimination or even violence.

In my opinion, cultural diversity is generally good for a country’s development, but it needs to be managed well. Governments and communities should work to promote understanding and respect between different cultural groups. This can be done through education, cultural exchange programs, and fair laws that protect everyone’s rights.

To conclude, while cultural diversity can present some challenges, I believe its benefits for a country’s development are greater. With proper management, cultural diversity can be a source of strength and progress for any nation.

(Word count: 263)

Challenges and solutions in cultural diversity

Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)

This essay demonstrates good coherence and task achievement, typical of a Band 6-7 response:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the question, discussing both views and stating the writer’s opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear progression of ideas. Paragraphing is appropriate, though cohesive devices are sometimes overused or underused.

3. Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used with some awareness of style and collocation. However, there is less sophistication compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are some errors, but they do not impede communication.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported, though the level of detail and explanation is less than in the Band 8-9 essay.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Cultural diversity (noun) – /ˈkʌltʃərəl daɪˈvɜːrsəti/ – The existence of different cultures or ethnic groups within a society
2. Multiculturalism (noun) – /ˌmʌltiˈkʌltʃərəlɪzəm/ – The presence of, or support for the presence of, several distinct cultural or ethnic groups within a society
3. Innovation (noun) – /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – The introduction of new ideas, methods, or things
4. Fragmentation (noun) – /ˌfræɡmənˈteɪʃən/ – The process of breaking or being broken into fragments or smaller parts
5. Integration (noun) – /ˌɪntɪˈɡreɪʃən/ – The action or process of combining two or more things in an effective way
6. Harness (verb) – /ˈhɑːrnɪs/ – To control and use the force or strength of something to produce power or achieve something
7. Intercultural (adjective) – /ˌɪntərˈkʌltʃərəl/ – Taking place between cultures, or derived from different cultures
8. Cohesion (noun) – /kəʊˈhiːʒən/ – The action or fact of forming a united whole

How cultural diversity enriches societies is a topic that encompasses many of these key vocabulary items. Understanding and using these terms effectively can significantly enhance your IELTS Writing Task 2 responses on this subject.

Conclusion

Cultural diversity and its impact on society is a complex and nuanced topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. To excel in essays on this theme, it’s crucial to present balanced arguments, use relevant examples, and demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of the issues involved. The effects of global tourism on cultural preservation and how immigration contributes to cultural diversity are related topics you might encounter in future exams.

Practice writing essays on similar topics, such as:

• The role of education in promoting cultural understanding
• The impact of globalization on local cultures
• Balancing national identity and cultural diversity

Remember to focus on clear organization, varied vocabulary, and accurate grammar. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further improvement.