Tourism is a frequent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the years. The impact of tourism on local cultures is particularly relevant, as it touches on issues of globalization, cultural preservation, and economic development. Based on past exam trends, we can expect this theme to remain popular in future tests. Let’s examine a sample question that closely resembles those seen in recent IELTS exams.
Some people think that tourism has a negative impact on local cultures. Others believe it can promote and preserve cultures. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the negative impacts of tourism on local cultures
- Explore how tourism can promote and preserve cultures
- Present their own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, starting with a high-scoring response.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Tourism’s influence on local cultures is a complex and often controversial topic. While some argue that it erodes traditional ways of life, others contend that it can actually help preserve and promote cultural heritage. In my opinion, tourism’s impact on local cultures is largely dependent on how it is managed, with the potential for both positive and negative outcomes.
Those who view tourism negatively often point to the commodification of culture. When local traditions become tourist attractions, there is a risk of them losing their authenticity and becoming mere performances for visitors. For example, in some parts of Thailand, traditional long-neck tribes have become a tourist spectacle, potentially trivializing their cultural significance. Moreover, the influx of foreign visitors can lead to the gradual erosion of local customs and languages, as communities adapt to cater to tourists’ preferences and communication needs.
On the other hand, tourism can play a crucial role in cultural preservation and promotion. The economic benefits of tourism can provide the financial means to maintain historical sites, fund cultural events, and support traditional artisans. In Peru, for instance, the income generated from tourists visiting Machu Picchu has enabled the government to invest in conservation efforts and promote Incan heritage. Furthermore, tourism can foster cultural exchange and understanding, encouraging local communities to take pride in their traditions and share them with the world.
In my view, the key to harnessing the positive potential of tourism while mitigating its negative impacts lies in sustainable and responsible tourism practices. This approach involves educating tourists about local cultures, involving local communities in tourism planning and management, and implementing measures to protect cultural heritage. By striking a balance between economic development and cultural preservation, tourism can become a powerful tool for promoting and safeguarding local cultures.
In conclusion, while tourism can pose threats to local cultures, it also offers significant opportunities for cultural preservation and promotion. The ultimate impact depends on how tourism is managed and the extent to which local communities are empowered to shape their cultural narratives in the face of global influences.
(Word count: 339)
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its high band score:
-
Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both negative and positive impacts of tourism on local cultures and providing a clear personal opinion.
-
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “On the other hand”, “Moreover”, “Furthermore”).
-
Lexical Resource: The essay employs a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “commodification”, “trivializing”, “erosion of local customs”, “sustainable and responsible tourism practices”).
-
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately (e.g., “While some argue that…, others contend that…”, “By striking a balance between…”).
-
Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
The essay presents a balanced view of the topic and provides a nuanced conclusion, demonstrating a sophisticated approach to the question.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Tourism has become a big part of many countries’ economies, but its impact on local cultures is debated. Some people think it hurts local cultures, while others believe it helps preserve them. I think tourism can have both good and bad effects on local cultures.
On the negative side, tourism can change local cultures in ways that are not always good. When many tourists come to a place, local people might start changing their way of life to please the tourists or make more money. For example, in some beach towns, traditional fishing villages have turned into busy tourist areas with lots of hotels and restaurants. This can make the local culture less authentic. Also, young people might start copying tourists’ behavior and forget their own traditions.
However, tourism can also help protect and promote local cultures. When tourists are interested in local traditions, it can make local people proud of their culture and want to keep it alive. Tourism can bring money that can be used to protect historical places and support traditional arts and crafts. For instance, in Bali, Indonesia, tourism has helped keep traditional dance and music popular.
The influence of global tourism on preserving cultural heritage is complex and varies from place to place. In my opinion, whether tourism is good or bad for local cultures depends on how it is managed. If local governments and communities work together to protect their culture while welcoming tourists, it can be a positive thing. But if tourism is not controlled well, it might harm local traditions.
In conclusion, tourism can have both positive and negative effects on local cultures. It’s important to find a balance between developing tourism and protecting local traditions. This way, tourism can help preserve cultures instead of destroying them.
(Word count: 309)
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates several features that place it in the Band 6-7 range:
-
Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the question, presenting both views and offering a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
-
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure with introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. It uses some cohesive devices, but they are less sophisticated than in the Band 8-9 essay.
-
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate for the task, but lacks the precision and sophistication of higher band scores. There is some attempt at using less common vocabulary (e.g., “authentic”).
-
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control, though there are some minor errors.
-
Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented clearly, but could be elaborated on further. Examples are provided, but they are less specific and detailed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
The essay presents a clear position and addresses the main points of the question, but lacks the depth and sophistication of a higher band score essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Commodification (noun) – /kəˌmɒdɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/ – The process of treating something as a mere commodity
- Authentic (adjective) – /ɔːˈθentɪk/ – Genuine or real
- Preservation (noun) – /ˌprezəˈveɪʃn/ – The act of maintaining something in its original state
- Erosion (noun) – /ɪˈrəʊʒn/ – The gradual destruction or diminution of something
- Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
- Heritage (noun) – /ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – Valued objects and qualities such as cultural traditions that have been passed down from previous generations
- Trivialize (verb) – /ˈtrɪviəlaɪz/ – Make (something) seem less important, significant, or complex than it really is
- Influx (noun) – /ˈɪnflʌks/ – An arrival or entry of large numbers of people or things
- Empowered (adjective) – /ɪmˈpaʊəd/ – Given the authority or power to do something
- Mitigate (verb) – /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – Make less severe, serious, or painful
The effects of cultural globalization on national identities are closely related to the impact of tourism on local cultures. As you prepare for your IELTS Writing Task 2, consider how these concepts intersect and influence each other.
Conclusion
The impact of tourism on local cultures is a multifaceted topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key arguments and being able to articulate them clearly, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle similar questions in your exam. Remember to always address all parts of the question, use relevant examples, and express your ideas coherently.
To further improve your skills, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones, such as:
- The role of government in protecting local cultures from the negative impacts of tourism
- The balance between economic benefits of tourism and cultural preservation
- How technology and social media affect cultural tourism
The influence of global media on local traditions is another related topic you might encounter. Practice writing essays on these themes to broaden your perspective and enhance your writing skills.
We encourage you to share your practice essays in the comments section below. This active engagement will not only help you improve your writing but also allow you to receive feedback and learn from others preparing for the IELTS exam.