The theme of cultural diversity protection frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in recent years. Based on analysis of past exam questions from 2018-2023, approximately 15% of tasks have touched on aspects of cultural preservation, indigenous rights, and language protection. Let’s examine a recent question that exemplifies this topic:
Some people believe that governments should spend money protecting their national culture and heritage, while others think this money should be used for more important needs. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
The importance of protecting cultural diversity from a global perspective
Analysis of Question Requirements
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for government spending on cultural protection
- Present opposing views favoring other spending priorities
- Provide a balanced analysis
- State and justify their personal position
The topic connects closely to importance of protecting cultural diversity in global markets and broader discussions about cultural preservation.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
There is ongoing debate about whether governmental resources should be allocated to preserving cultural heritage or directed toward other pressing needs. While both perspectives have merit, I believe a balanced approach that includes cultural protection is essential for society’s wellbeing.
Those who advocate for cultural preservation funding argue that national identity and heritage are irreplaceable assets. Once traditional practices, languages, or historical sites are lost, they cannot be recovered, making their protection crucial for maintaining importance of protecting indigenous languages. Furthermore, cultural heritage often generates tourism revenue and creates employment opportunities in the creative sectors.
However, critics contend that governments face more urgent priorities like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. They argue that in developing nations particularly, limited resources should address immediate social needs rather than preserving cultural artifacts. This perspective emphasizes practical necessities over cultural considerations.
In my view, this should not be an either-or choice. Just as importance of biodiversity in maintaining ecosystem balance is crucial for natural systems, cultural diversity is vital for human society. Governments can implement cost-effective preservation strategies while maintaining essential services. Moreover, cultural heritage often contributes to economic development through tourism and creative industries.
Therefore, while acknowledging budget constraints, I believe governments should maintain reasonable funding for cultural preservation alongside other priorities. This balanced approach ensures both immediate societal needs and long-term cultural sustainability are addressed.
Government methods and strategies for protecting cultural heritage sites
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
These days, there is a discussion about government spending on culture and heritage. Some people think it’s important, but others believe the money should go to other things. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On one side, people say protecting culture is important. They think old buildings, traditional music, and cultural festivals help people remember their history. Also, tourists like to visit cultural places, which can make money for the country. The role of governments in protecting cultural heritage is very important for this reason.
However, other people think governments should spend money on more important things. They say hospitals, schools, and roads are more necessary than old buildings and festivals. Poor countries especially need to focus on basic needs first.
In my opinion, both things are important. Governments should try to save some money for culture while also spending on basic needs. Maybe they can find cheaper ways to protect culture or get help from private companies.
To conclude, I think governments should spend money on both culture and basic needs, but they need to find a good balance between them.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “irreplaceable assets,” “generates tourism revenue”
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear progression of ideas
- Well-developed arguments
- Effective use of cohesive devices
- Balanced perspective with clear position
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Basic sentence structures
- Some repetition
- Limited development of ideas
- Basic cohesive devices
- Position stated but less thoroughly supported
Key Vocabulary
- cultural heritage (n) /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – traditions and monuments passed down
- preservation (n) /ˌprezəˈveɪʃn/ – protection from harm or decay
- allocation (n) /ˌæləˈkeɪʃn/ – distribution of resources
- indigenous (adj) /ɪnˈdɪdʒənəs/ – native to a particular place
- irreplaceable (adj) /ˌɪrɪˈpleɪsəbl/ – impossible to replace or replicate
In conclusion, the protection of cultural diversity remains a significant IELTS Writing Task 2 topic. Practice writing responses to similar questions about traditional customs, language preservation, and heritage conservation. Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.
