Tourism has become a significant topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly when discussing its effects on local economies in developing nations. This theme has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s examine a sample question that closely resembles those seen in actual IELTS exams:
Some people believe that tourism brings many economic benefits to developing countries. Others think it has negative effects on local culture and the environment. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question encapsulates the complex relationship between tourism and its impact on developing economies, making it an excellent subject for IELTS candidates to explore. Let’s analyze this prompt and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
The prompt presents two contrasting viewpoints on tourism in developing countries:
- Positive view: Tourism brings economic benefits
- Negative view: Tourism has adverse effects on local culture and the environment
To effectively answer this question, candidates must:
- Discuss both perspectives
- Provide specific examples to support each view
- Present their own opinion
- Ensure a balanced approach to the discussion
Now, let’s examine sample essays that demonstrate different levels of proficiency in addressing this topic.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Tourism has become a cornerstone of economic development for many nations, particularly those in the developing world. While some argue that this industry brings substantial financial gains, others contend that it erodes local cultures and damages the environment. In my opinion, although tourism can indeed pose challenges, its economic benefits outweigh the potential drawbacks when managed responsibly.
Proponents of tourism highlight its significant economic advantages for developing countries. Firstly, the industry creates numerous job opportunities, from hospitality and transportation to tour guiding and artisanal crafts, thereby reducing unemployment rates. For example, in Bali, Indonesia, tourism accounts for approximately 80% of the local economy, providing livelihoods for millions. Moreover, tourism brings in foreign exchange, which can be invested in infrastructure development and public services, improving the overall quality of life for residents. Countries like Thailand have leveraged tourism revenue to enhance their transportation networks and healthcare systems, benefiting both visitors and locals alike.
On the other hand, critics argue that tourism can have detrimental effects on local cultures and environments. The influx of visitors may lead to the commercialization of traditional customs and rituals, diluting their authenticity and spiritual significance. For instance, in some parts of India, ancient religious ceremonies have been transformed into tourist spectacles, losing their original meaning. Additionally, the rapid development of tourist facilities can strain natural resources and ecosystems, as seen in the Maldives, where coral reefs have suffered due to increased water pollution and coastal construction.
How does tourism impact local cultures is a complex issue that requires careful consideration. While it’s true that tourism can present challenges to cultural preservation and environmental protection, I believe that with proper planning and regulation, these negative impacts can be mitigated. Sustainable tourism initiatives, such as community-based ecotourism projects in Costa Rica, demonstrate that it’s possible to balance economic growth with cultural and environmental conservation. By involving local communities in tourism development and implementing strict environmental guidelines, countries can harness the economic potential of tourism while safeguarding their heritage and natural resources.
In conclusion, while tourism in developing countries does pose certain risks to local cultures and environments, its economic benefits are substantial and can be transformative when managed sustainably. Governments and tourism operators should work together to implement policies that maximize the positive impacts of tourism while minimizing its negative effects. By doing so, developing nations can use tourism as a powerful tool for economic growth and social development without compromising their cultural integrity or environmental health.
Tourism's impact on developing economies
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellence in addressing the IELTS Writing Task 2 prompt, warranting a Band 8-9 score for the following reasons:
Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting the writer’s opinion. It provides a well-developed response with relevant, extended examples.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is cohesive and logically organized, with each paragraph focusing on a specific aspect of the argument. Clear paragraphing and effective use of linking words (e.g., “Firstly,” “Moreover,” “On the other hand”) enhance the flow of ideas.
Lexical Resource: The essay showcases a wide range of vocabulary used accurately and appropriately. Sophisticated terms and phrases such as “cornerstone of economic development,” “commercialization of traditional customs,” and “sustainable tourism initiatives” demonstrate lexical precision.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures used flexibly and accurately. Complex sentences are used effectively, and there are no noticeable errors.
Development and Support: Each main point is well-developed with specific examples (e.g., Bali’s tourism economy, Thailand’s infrastructure improvements, Indian religious ceremonies, Maldives’ environmental issues, Costa Rica’s ecotourism).
Balanced Argument: The essay presents a balanced view of both perspectives before offering a nuanced personal opinion, which aligns with the task requirements.
Conclusion: The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points and reiterates the writer’s position, offering a forward-looking statement on sustainable tourism management.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Tourism is a big industry in many developing countries. Some people think it helps the economy, while others worry about its effects on local culture and the environment. I believe tourism has both good and bad impacts, but overall it can be positive if managed well.
On the positive side, tourism brings money into developing countries. It creates jobs in hotels, restaurants, and tour companies, which helps reduce unemployment. For example, in Thailand, many people work in the tourism industry and earn money to support their families. Tourism also brings in foreign currency, which the government can use to improve things like roads and hospitals.
However, there are also negative aspects of tourism. Sometimes, local traditions are changed to please tourists, which can make the culture less authentic. In some places, traditional dances or ceremonies become more like shows for tourists rather than real cultural practices. Also, too many tourists can damage the environment. For example, in some beach areas, coral reefs are being destroyed because of too many boats and pollution from hotels.
The impact of tourism on historical sites is another important issue to consider. While tourism can provide funds for preservation, it can also lead to wear and tear on ancient structures and artifacts.
I think that tourism can be good for developing countries if it is managed carefully. Governments should make rules to protect the environment and local cultures while still allowing tourism to grow. They could limit the number of tourists in sensitive areas or encourage eco-friendly tourism practices. This way, countries can get the economic benefits of tourism without losing their cultural identity or damaging nature.
In conclusion, tourism has both advantages and disadvantages for developing countries. While it can boost the economy and create jobs, it can also harm local cultures and the environment. However, with good management, I believe the positive effects of tourism can outweigh the negative ones.
Sustainable tourism practices in developing countries
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates a good attempt at addressing the IELTS Writing Task 2 prompt, warranting a Band 6-7 score for the following reasons:
Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and presenting the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed with more specific examples.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing. Basic cohesive devices are used, but more sophisticated linking words could enhance the flow of ideas.
Lexical Resource: The essay uses an adequate range of vocabulary, with some attempt at using less common lexical items (e.g., “authentic,” “eco-friendly”). However, there is room for more precise and varied vocabulary use.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are no major grammatical errors, but the range could be wider for a higher band score.
Development and Support: Main points are supported with examples, but these could be more detailed and specific to fully illustrate the arguments.
Balanced Argument: The essay presents both perspectives and offers a personal opinion, which aligns with the task requirements.
Conclusion: The conclusion summarizes the main points and restates the writer’s position, though it could be more nuanced.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Economic benefits (noun phrase) – /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈbenɪfɪts/ – advantages or gains related to money and finances
- Cultural dilution (noun phrase) – /ˈkʌltʃərəl daɪˈluːʃn/ – the weakening or loss of traditional cultural elements
- Sustainable tourism (noun phrase) – /səˈsteɪnəbl ˈtʊərɪzəm/ – tourism that respects local communities and the environment
- Foreign exchange (noun phrase) – /ˈfɒrɪn ɪksˈtʃeɪndʒ/ – money from other countries
- Eco-friendly (adjective) – /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – not harmful to the environment
- Commercialization (noun) – /kəˌmɜːʃəlaɪˈzeɪʃn/ – the process of making something available for sale
- Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/ – basic physical structures needed for society to operate
- Preserve (verb) – /prɪˈzɜːv/ – to maintain something in its original state
- Authenticity (noun) – /ˌɔːθenˈtɪsəti/ – the quality of being genuine or real
- Mitigate (verb) – /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – to make less severe or serious
Conclusion
The impact of tourism on local economies in developing nations is a complex and multifaceted topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key arguments and using appropriate vocabulary and structures, candidates can effectively address this theme in their essays.
How globalization affects traditional economies is a related topic that may also appear in future IELTS exams. Candidates are encouraged to practice writing essays on similar themes, such as:
- The role of government in regulating tourism in developing countries
- Balancing economic growth and environmental protection in tourist destinations
- The impact of mass tourism versus niche tourism on local communities
To further improve your writing skills, try composing your own essay on the topic discussed in this article and share it in the comments section. This active practice will help you refine your approach to IELTS Writing Task 2 and gain valuable feedback.