Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on How Globalization is Changing Local Cultures

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 relevant in future tests. Let’s explore this theme through sample essays and analysis, focusing on a specific question that exemplifies this topic.

Some people think that globalization is harmful to local cultures. Others believe it offers more benefits than drawbacks. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the negative impacts of globalization on local cultures
2. Explore the benefits of globalization for local cultures
3. Provide a personal opinion on whether the benefits outweigh the drawbacks

It’s crucial to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced discussion before stating your own view.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Globalization has become an integral part of our modern world, profoundly affecting local cultures across the globe. While some argue that this phenomenon erodes traditional values and practices, others contend that it brings more advantages than disadvantages. In my opinion, although globalization does pose certain challenges to local cultures, its benefits ultimately outweigh the drawbacks.

Those who criticize globalization often point to the homogenization of cultures as a primary concern. As multinational corporations expand their reach, local businesses and traditions may be overshadowed or even replaced. For instance, the proliferation of global fast-food chains has led to a decline in traditional cuisine in many countries. Moreover, the dominance of Western media and entertainment can influence local fashion, language, and social norms, potentially diluting unique cultural identities.

Fast food chain replacing local restaurant

However, proponents of globalization argue that it offers numerous benefits to local cultures. Firstly, it facilitates cultural exchange and understanding, allowing people to appreciate and learn from diverse traditions and perspectives. This cross-pollination of ideas can lead to innovation and creativity in arts, music, and literature. Secondly, globalization can help preserve endangered cultural practices by providing a global platform for their recognition and appreciation. For example, UNESCO’s efforts to safeguard intangible cultural heritage have been greatly aided by global communication networks.

Furthermore, globalization has empowered local cultures to share their unique identities with the world. The internet and social media have given voice to indigenous communities and minority groups, allowing them to maintain and promote their traditions on a global scale. Additionally, economic opportunities arising from globalization can provide resources for cultural preservation and development, such as funding for museums, cultural centers, and educational programs.

Indigenous community sharing their culture online

In my view, while the concerns about cultural homogenization are valid, the benefits of globalization for local cultures are more significant. The key lies in striking a balance between embracing global interconnectedness and preserving cultural distinctiveness. Local communities can harness the power of globalization to strengthen and reinvent their cultural identities, adapting to the changing world while maintaining their core values and traditions.

In conclusion, globalization is a complex phenomenon with both positive and negative impacts on local cultures. However, its potential to foster cultural understanding, preservation, and empowerment outweighs the risks of homogenization. By embracing the opportunities offered by globalization while consciously safeguarding their unique heritage, local cultures can thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

(Word count: 398)

Explanation of Band 8-9 Score

This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 response:

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, providing a balanced discussion of both viewpoints and a clear personal opinion.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. Sophisticated words and phrases such as “homogenization,” “cross-pollination,” and “intangible cultural heritage” demonstrate a high level of language proficiency.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex sentence structures with a high degree of accuracy. There is good control of grammar and punctuation throughout.
5. Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, showing depth of analysis and critical thinking.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Globalization has become a big topic in recent years, and its effect on local cultures is often debated. Some people think it’s bad for local cultures, while others see more good than bad in it. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

Those who are against globalization say it harms local cultures. They think that as big international companies come in, local businesses and traditions might disappear. For example, when McDonald’s opens in a new country, some local food places might close down. Also, movies and TV shows from other countries can change how people dress and talk, which might make local cultures less special.

Western media influence on local fashion

On the other hand, people who support globalization say it has many good points. It helps people learn about other cultures and understand them better. This can make people more creative in art and music. Globalization can also help save some old traditions by making more people know about them. For instance, the internet lets small groups of people share their culture with the whole world.

Another good thing is that globalization can bring more money to local cultures. This money can be used to keep traditions alive, like building museums or teaching young people about their culture. It also gives local artists and craftspeople a chance to sell their work to people all over the world.

In my opinion, even though globalization can cause some problems for local cultures, it brings more good than bad. I think it’s important to find a balance between being part of the global world and keeping local traditions. If local cultures use globalization in a smart way, they can become stronger and more well-known.

To sum up, globalization affects local cultures in both good and bad ways. But I believe the good things, like helping people understand each other better and giving more chances to local cultures, are more important than the risks. If local cultures are careful, they can use globalization to grow and stay strong in our connected world.

(Word count: 345)

Explanation of Band 6-7 Score

This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a mid-range IELTS Writing Task 2 response:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and providing a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing. Some cohesive devices are used, but they could be more varied.
3. Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used appropriately, but it lacks the sophistication and precision of higher-band essays. There are some attempts at less common vocabulary (e.g., “debated,” “disappear”).
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are some minor errors, but they do not impede communication.
5. Development of Ideas: Main ideas are relevant and supported with examples, but the level of detail and explanation is not as extensive as in higher-band essays.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Globalization (noun) – /ˌɡləʊbəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – the process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence or start operating on an international scale
2. Homogenization (noun) – /həˌmɒdʒənaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – the process of making things uniform or similar
3. Cultural identity (noun phrase) – /ˈkʌltʃərəl aɪˈdentɪti/ – the identity or feeling of belonging to a group
4. Cross-pollination (noun) – /krɒs pɒlɪˈneɪʃən/ – the transfer or exchange of ideas, customs, etc. between different cultures or groups
5. Indigenous (adjective) – /ɪnˈdɪdʒɪnəs/ – originating or occurring naturally in a particular place
6. Intangible cultural heritage (noun phrase) – /ɪnˈtændʒəbl ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – practices, representations, expressions, knowledge, skills that communities recognize as part of their cultural heritage
7. Cultural preservation (noun phrase) – /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˌprezəˈveɪʃən/ – the protection and conservation of cultural traditions and practices
8. Cultural diversity (noun phrase) – /ˈkʌltʃərəl daɪˈvɜːsɪti/ – the existence of a variety of cultural or ethnic groups within a society
9. Cultural exchange (noun phrase) – /ˈkʌltʃərəl ɪksˈtʃeɪndʒ/ – the sharing of different aspects of culture between different groups or nations
10. Interconnectedness (noun) – /ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪdnəs/ – the state of being connected with each other

Conclusion

The topic of globalization and its impact on local cultures is a complex and nuanced one that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. To excel in writing about this topic, it’s crucial to:

1. Understand both the positive and negative aspects of globalization on local cultures
2. Provide specific examples to support your arguments
3. Use a range of advanced vocabulary related to culture and globalization
4. Structure your essay logically, addressing all parts of the question
5. Develop your ideas fully with explanations and analysis

Diverse cultural artifacts in a global marketplace

As you prepare for your IELTS exam, consider practicing with similar topics such as:

• The impact of tourism on local cultures
• The role of technology in preserving traditional cultures
• The balance between modernization and cultural preservation
• The effects of migration on cultural identity

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice and reflection. Try writing your own essay on this topic and compare it to the sample essays provided. Pay attention to the structure, vocabulary, and development of ideas. You can even share your practice essay in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners.

For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:

• How Globalization is Influencing Cultural Diversity
• The Impact of Globalization on Language Education Policies
• How Globalization is Reshaping Traditional Cultures

Good luck with your IELTS preparation!