Cultural diversity in education has become an increasingly important topic in recent years. This subject frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays, reflecting its significance in modern society. Based on past exam trends and current global issues, it’s likely that questions related to cultural diversity in education will continue to be prevalent in future IELTS tests.
Let’s examine a relevant IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:
Some people believe that schools should teach children from different cultures to maintain their cultural identities. Others argue that schools should prioritize national values and culture. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question asks you to discuss two contrasting views on the role of schools in cultural education:
- Schools should teach children to maintain their diverse cultural identities
- Schools should focus on national values and culture
You need to:
- Discuss both viewpoints
- Provide your own opinion
- Support your arguments with relevant examples and explanations
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In an increasingly globalized world, the debate over cultural education in schools has gained significant traction. While some advocate for maintaining diverse cultural identities, others argue for a focus on national values. In my opinion, a balanced approach that incorporates both perspectives is crucial for comprehensive education.
Proponents of teaching diverse cultural identities argue that this approach fosters inclusivity and broadens students’ perspectives. By learning about various cultures, children develop empathy and respect for differences, which are essential skills in our interconnected world. For example, schools in multicultural cities like London often celebrate festivals from different cultures, helping students appreciate diversity firsthand.
On the other hand, those who prioritize national values and culture contend that a shared national identity is vital for social cohesion. They believe that focusing on a common cultural foundation helps create a sense of unity and prepares students for active citizenship. In France, for instance, the education system places strong emphasis on French language and history to reinforce national identity.
While both arguments have merit, I believe the ideal approach lies in striking a balance between the two. Schools should aim to nurture students’ cultural roots while also instilling a sense of national belonging. This can be achieved through a curriculum that includes both multicultural education and lessons on national heritage. For instance, schools could organize cultural exchange programs alongside national day celebrations, providing a holistic cultural education.
In conclusion, the most effective educational approach combines respect for diverse cultural identities with an appreciation of national values. This balanced method not only prepares students for a globalized world but also fosters a strong sense of national unity.
(Word count: 276)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The role of schools in teaching culture is a topic of much debate. Some people think schools should teach children about different cultures, while others believe focusing on national culture is more important. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support teaching about different cultures say it helps children understand and respect others. In today’s world, where many countries have people from different backgrounds, this is very important. For example, in schools with students from many countries, learning about each other’s cultures can help them get along better.
On the other hand, people who want schools to focus on national culture believe it’s important for creating a strong national identity. They think that if children learn about their country’s traditions and values, they will feel more connected to their nation. This can be seen in countries like Japan, where schools teach a lot about Japanese culture and history.
In my opinion, both approaches are important. I think schools should teach about different cultures because it helps students become more open-minded. At the same time, learning about national culture is also necessary because it gives students a sense of belonging. A good solution could be to have lessons that cover both national culture and other cultures.
To conclude, while both views have their merits, I believe a mix of teaching different cultures and national culture is the best approach. This way, students can appreciate diversity while also understanding their own cultural roots.
(Word count: 253)
Writing Tips for This Topic
-
Vocabulary: Use a range of vocabulary related to culture and education. For higher band scores, incorporate more sophisticated terms.
Band 6-7: culture, traditions, diversity, national identity
Band 8-9: cultural heritage, multiculturalism, social cohesion, globalized world -
Grammar: Demonstrate a variety of sentence structures.
Band 6-7: Use a mix of simple and compound sentences.
Band 8-9: Incorporate complex sentences and advanced structures like inversion. -
Coherence and Cohesion: Ensure your essay flows logically.
Band 6-7: Use basic linking words (however, on the other hand).
Band 8-9: Use more sophisticated connectors (nevertheless, conversely). -
Task Response: Address all parts of the question fully.
Band 6-7: Discuss both views and give a clear opinion.
Band 8-9: Provide a nuanced discussion with well-developed arguments. -
Examples: Use relevant examples to support your points.
Band 6-7: General examples are acceptable.
Band 8-9: Provide specific, well-elaborated examples.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Cultural diversity (noun) /ˈkʌltʃərəl daɪˈvɜːrsəti/ – The existence of different cultures or ethnic groups within a society
- Multiculturalism (noun) /ˌmʌltiˈkʌltʃərəlɪzəm/ – The practice of giving equal importance to each of different cultures in a society
- Social cohesion (noun) /ˈsəʊʃəl kəʊˈhiːʒən/ – The willingness of members of a society to cooperate with each other
- National identity (noun) /ˈnæʃənl aɪˈdentəti/ – A sense of a nation as a cohesive whole, as represented by distinctive traditions, culture, and language
- Cultural heritage (noun) /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society
- Globalization (noun) /ˌɡləʊbəlaɪˈzeɪʃn/ – The process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence
- Inclusivity (noun) /ɪnkluːˈsɪvəti/ – The practice or policy of including people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized
- Cultural assimilation (noun) /ˈkʌltʃərəl əˈsɪmɪleɪʃn/ – The process by which a person or group’s language and culture come to resemble those of another group
Conclusion
The importance of cultural diversity in education is a complex and relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. It requires careful consideration of multiple perspectives and the ability to articulate a balanced viewpoint. As you prepare for your IELTS exam, practice writing essays on this topic, exploring various aspects such as:
- The benefits and challenges of multicultural education
- The role of schools in preserving cultural heritage
- Balancing global and national perspectives in education
- The impact of cultural diversity on student learning outcomes
Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active practice will help you develop the skills needed to tackle similar questions in the actual IELTS test.
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