Globalization and its influence on cultural diversity is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on an analysis of past exams and current trends, this topic has a high probability of appearing in future tests. Let’s explore a sample question and multiple essay responses to help you prepare effectively.
Some people think that globalization is harmful to local cultures and traditions. Others believe it has positive effects as it brings different cultures closer. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the negative impacts of globalization on local cultures
- Explore the positive effects of globalization in bringing cultures together
- Provide a personal opinion on the overall impact
Sample Essays for Different Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay
In the era of rapid globalization, the debate over its impact on local cultures and traditions has intensified. While some argue that this phenomenon erodes cultural uniqueness, others contend that it fosters cultural exchange and understanding. In my opinion, globalization’s effects on cultural diversity are largely positive, though not without challenges.
Those who view globalization negatively often point to the homogenization of cultures. They argue that as global brands and media permeate local markets, traditional practices and customs are gradually replaced by a more uniform, Westernized culture. For instance, the proliferation of fast-food chains like McDonald’s in countries worldwide has led to changes in local eating habits and, in some cases, a decline in traditional culinary practices. Additionally, the dominance of English as a global language has raised concerns about the preservation of linguistic diversity.
McDonald's restaurant in a foreign country
On the other hand, proponents of globalization emphasize its role in cultural enrichment and exchange. The ease of international travel and communication has allowed people to experience and appreciate diverse cultures firsthand, fostering mutual understanding and respect. Moreover, globalization has provided a platform for minority cultures to gain visibility on the world stage. For example, K-pop, originating from South Korea, has gained global popularity, introducing Korean culture to audiences worldwide.
K-pop concert with a diverse audience
In my view, while the concerns about cultural homogenization are valid, the benefits of globalization in promoting cultural exchange outweigh the drawbacks. The key lies in striking a balance between embracing global influences and preserving local traditions. Many cultures have successfully adapted to globalization while maintaining their core identities. Japan, for instance, has integrated Western influences into its society while still preserving its unique cultural heritage.
Traditional Japanese tea ceremony in a modern setting
In conclusion, globalization’s impact on cultural diversity is complex and multifaceted. While it poses challenges to traditional practices, it also offers unprecedented opportunities for cultural exchange and mutual understanding. The onus is on societies to harness the benefits of globalization while actively preserving their cultural uniqueness.
(Word count: 309)
Band 6-7 Essay
Globalization has become a hot topic in recent years, with people debating its effects on local cultures and traditions. Some think it’s harmful, while others see it as positive. I believe that globalization has both good and bad impacts on cultures, but overall it’s more beneficial.
Those who are against globalization say it’s destroying local cultures. They argue that big global companies and Western media are making everything the same everywhere. For example, you can find McDonald’s in almost every country now, which might be changing how people eat traditional foods. Also, many young people are watching Hollywood movies and listening to Western music instead of their own country’s entertainment.
Teenagers engrossed in a Hollywood movie
On the other hand, supporters of globalization think it’s good for bringing cultures together. With the internet and cheap travel, people can learn about other cultures easily. This helps people understand each other better and be more open-minded. Also, small cultures can now share their traditions with the whole world. For instance, yoga from India has become popular globally, helping people learn about Indian culture.
In my opinion, while there are some negative effects, globalization is mostly good for cultures. It’s true that some traditions might be lost, but new and interesting cultural mixes are also being created. For example, fusion cuisine combines cooking styles from different countries to make new and exciting dishes. I think it’s important for people to enjoy global culture while also keeping their own traditions alive.
A diverse group of people enjoying fusion cuisine
To conclude, globalization affects cultures in both good and bad ways. However, I believe the positives outweigh the negatives. It’s up to us to enjoy the benefits of globalization while also working to preserve our unique cultural identities.
(Word count: 280)
Band 5-6 Essay
Globalization is changing the world very fast. Some people think it’s bad for local cultures, but others say it’s good because it brings different cultures together. I will talk about both sides and give my opinion.
First, some people don’t like globalization because they think it hurts local cultures. They say that big companies from other countries come and change how people live. For example, many young people now like to eat at KFC instead of local restaurants. Also, people watch movies from America and forget about their own country’s stories.
But other people think globalization is good. They say it helps people learn about different cultures. Now we can use the internet to see how people live in other countries. This makes us understand each other better. Also, small cultures can show their traditions to the whole world. Like how Chinese food is popular in many countries now.
A bustling Chinese restaurant in a foreign city
I think globalization has both good and bad things. It’s true that some old traditions might be lost, but we also learn new and interesting things from other cultures. I believe it’s more good than bad. We should try to keep our own culture but also learn from others.
In conclusion, globalization changes cultures in many ways. Some changes are not good, but many are positive. We should try to keep the good parts of our culture while also enjoying new things from other places.
(Word count: 228)
Explaining the Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, providing a balanced discussion of both viewpoints and a clear personal opinion.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphing is well-managed and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with full flexibility and precision. Uncommon lexical items are used naturally (e.g., “homogenization”, “permeate”, “proliferation”).
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and accuracy. Complex sentences are frequent and error-free.
Band 6-7 Essay Analysis
This essay shows good control of language but lacks some of the sophistication of the higher band essay:
- Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the ideas are less fully developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but cohesive devices are less varied.
- Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used appropriately, but lacks the precision and sophistication of the higher band essay.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used with good control, but lacks the full flexibility of the Band 8-9 essay.
Band 5-6 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates a more limited control of language:
- Task Response: The essay addresses the task, but some points are underdeveloped.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a basic organizational structure, but linking of ideas is not always clear.
- Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task but lacks range and precision.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Sentence structures are mostly simple, with limited use of complex sentences.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Globalization (noun) /ˌɡləʊbəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – the process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence or start operating on an international scale
- Cultural diversity (noun phrase) /ˈkʌltʃərəl daɪˈvɜːsəti/ – the existence of a variety of cultural or ethnic groups within a society
- Homogenization (noun) /həˌmɒdʒənaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – the process of making things uniform or similar
- Permeate (verb) /ˈpɜːmieɪt/ – spread throughout (something); pervade
- Proliferation (noun) /prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃən/ – rapid increase in numbers
- Linguistic diversity (noun phrase) /lɪŋˈɡwɪstɪk daɪˈvɜːsəti/ – the variety of languages spoken in a specific region or in the world as a whole
- Cultural exchange (noun phrase) /ˈkʌltʃərəl ɪksˈtʃeɪndʒ/ – the interchange of cultural practices, traditions, or ideas between different groups
- Cultural heritage (noun phrase) /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – the legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society
Conclusion
The topic of globalization’s impact on cultural diversity is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of technology in preserving cultural heritage
- The impact of international tourism on local traditions
- The importance of language preservation in a globalized world
- The effects of migration on cultural identity
Remember to always analyze the question carefully, plan your response, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to your target band score. We encourage you to practice writing an essay on the sample question provided and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your IELTS Writing skills.