The topic of how music and arts influence youth culture is a popular and recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on an analysis of past exams and current trends, this subject has a high probability of appearing in future tests. Its relevance to modern society and its impact on young people make it an ideal topic for evaluating candidates’ critical thinking and writing skills. Let’s explore this theme through sample essays and in-depth analysis.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that music and arts are vital in affecting youth culture. Others believe that popular celebrities influence young people more. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question presents two contrasting views on what influences youth culture: music and arts versus popular celebrities. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss the impact of music and arts on youth culture
- Explain how popular celebrities influence young people
- Compare these two perspectives
- Provide a personal opinion with supporting arguments
Now, let’s examine sample essays for different band scores, starting with a high-band response.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Music and the arts have long been recognized as powerful forces shaping youth culture, while the influence of popular celebrities has grown exponentially in recent years. This essay will explore both perspectives and argue that while celebrities have a significant immediate impact, music and arts have a more profound and lasting influence on young people.
The arts, particularly music, play a crucial role in molding youth culture. They serve as a medium for self-expression, allowing young people to articulate their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. For instance, genres like hip-hop and rock have historically been vehicles for social commentary and rebellion, reflecting and shaping the values of younger generations. Moreover, artistic movements often become synonymous with youth subcultures, such as the connection between punk rock and anti-establishment attitudes in the 1970s. This deep-rooted influence of arts on youth identity and behavior demonstrates its vital role in shaping culture.
On the other hand, popular celebrities undeniably wield significant influence over young people. Their lifestyle choices, fashion sense, and public statements can quickly spark trends and shape opinions among their young followers. Social media platforms have amplified this effect, allowing celebrities to directly interact with fans and influence their behavior more immediately. For example, a celebrity endorsement of a product or cause can lead to rapid changes in consumer behavior or increased awareness of social issues among young people.
Music and arts influencing youth culture
However, I believe that while celebrity influence can be powerful, it is often fleeting and superficial compared to the enduring impact of music and arts. Artistic expressions tend to resonate on a deeper emotional and intellectual level, shaping core values and identities rather than just surface-level trends. Furthermore, engagement with arts fosters creativity and critical thinking, skills that are essential for personal growth and societal progress.
In conclusion, both music and arts and popular celebrities play significant roles in influencing youth culture. However, the profound and lasting impact of artistic expression on young people’s identities and values makes it a more vital force in shaping youth culture in the long term.
(Word count: 375)
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that justify a high band score:
Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly stating a personal opinion.
Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. Sophisticated words and phrases such as “molding youth culture,” “vehicles for social commentary,” and “enduring impact” enhance the essay’s quality.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a wide range of complex structures used accurately. There is a good mix of simple and complex sentences, with no noticeable errors.
Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, demonstrating a sophisticated approach to the topic.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Music, arts, and celebrities all have big impacts on young people today. Some think music and arts are more important, while others believe celebrities have more influence. This essay will look at both sides and give my opinion.
Music and arts are very important for youth culture. They help young people express themselves and share their feelings. For example, many teenagers use music to show their emotions or to connect with others who like the same style. Arts like painting or dance can also help young people be creative and show their ideas. These things have been important for a long time in shaping how young people think and act.
On the other hand, celebrities have become more influential recently. Young people often look up to famous actors, singers, or social media stars and want to be like them. They might copy their clothes, hairstyles, or even their opinions on different topics. With social media, celebrities can talk directly to their fans, which makes their influence even stronger. For instance, if a popular singer supports a cause, many young fans might start supporting it too.
Celebrity influencing youth fashion trends
I think both music and arts and celebrities are important in affecting youth culture, but in different ways. Celebrities might have a quicker and more visible impact, but music and arts often have a deeper and longer-lasting effect. Music and arts help young people develop their own ideas and creativity, which is very important for their growth.
In conclusion, while celebrities have a strong influence on youth culture, I believe music and arts are more vital because they help shape young people’s thoughts and feelings in a more meaningful way.
(Word count: 309)
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates good qualities that justify a band score of 6-7:
Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and stating a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing. Some cohesive devices are used, but they could be more sophisticated.
Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary, with some attempts at using less common words. However, the language is sometimes repetitive.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control. There are no major errors that impede communication.
Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported with examples, but they could be elaborated more to demonstrate a deeper understanding of the topic.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Influence (noun) – /ˈɪnfluəns/ – the power to have an effect on people or things
- Vital (adjective) – /ˈvaɪtl/ – absolutely necessary or important
- Culture (noun) – /ˈkʌltʃər/ – the ideas, customs, and social behavior of a particular people or society
- Express (verb) – /ɪkˈspres/ – to convey (a thought or feeling) in words or by gestures and conduct
- Trend (noun) – /trend/ – a general direction in which something is developing or changing
- Endorse (verb) – /ɪnˈdɔːrs/ – to declare one’s public approval or support of
- Resonate (verb) – /ˈrezəneɪt/ – to evoke or suggest images, memories, and emotions
- Superficial (adjective) – /ˌsuːpəˈfɪʃl/ – existing or occurring at or on the surface
- Profound (adjective) – /prəˈfaʊnd/ – very great or intense; having or showing great knowledge or insight
- Identity (noun) – /aɪˈdentəti/ – the characteristics determining who or what a person or thing is
In conclusion, the topic of how music, arts, and celebrities influence youth culture is a rich and relevant subject for IELTS Writing Task 2. It allows candidates to explore various aspects of modern society and demonstrate their ability to analyze complex issues. When practicing this topic, consider discussing the long-term versus short-term impacts, the role of social media in amplifying influences, and the potential positive and negative effects on young people’s development. Remember to support your arguments with specific examples and maintain a balanced perspective while clearly stating your own opinion.
We encourage readers to practice writing their own essays on this topic and share them in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement can significantly improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS exam.