The topic of endangered languages preservation has consistently appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2, reflecting its growing significance in our globalized world. This topic connects deeply with importance of protecting indigenous languages and cultural heritage preservation. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams, this theme appears approximately once every 4-6 months, making it crucial for test preparation.
Protecting endangered languages and cultural heritage preservation
Task Analysis
Some people believe that governments should spend money to preserve languages that are not widely spoken, while others think this is a waste of financial resources. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires examining both perspectives regarding government funding for endangered language preservation while clearly stating your position. The essay should:
- Discuss arguments for and against government funding
- Provide specific examples and reasoning
- Present a clear personal stance
- Maintain a balanced academic tone
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
Similar to the importance of biodiversity, protecting linguistic diversity is crucial for cultural preservation. While some argue against allocating public funds for preserving minority languages, I firmly believe this investment is essential for maintaining our global cultural heritage.
Proponents of government funding emphasize that language preservation is fundamental to cultural identity and human knowledge. When a language disappears, we lose not just words but entire worldviews, traditional knowledge, and cultural practices. For instance, many indigenous languages contain unique terms describing local ecosystems and medical practices that could benefit modern science and medicine.
Critics argue that supporting rarely-used languages is financially impractical. They contend that these resources could be better spent on education, healthcare, or economic development. Furthermore, they suggest that in an increasingly interconnected world, focusing on widely-spoken languages might better serve communities’ practical needs.
However, I strongly support government investment in language preservation. The Linguistic diversity preservation efforts have shown that relatively modest funding can effectively maintain endangered languages through documentation, education programs, and community support initiatives. Moreover, preserving linguistic diversity enriches our global cultural heritage and provides valuable insights into human cognition and history.
In conclusion, while the financial concerns are valid, the cultural and scientific value of preserving endangered languages far outweighs the monetary costs. Governments should view this as an investment in humanity’s cultural heritage rather than an expense.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Some people think governments should save rare languages, but others say it wastes money. I think both sides have good points, but saving languages is more important.
People who support saving languages say it helps keep culture alive. When old languages die, we lose important things about how people lived before. For example, some tribes in Amazon have special words about plants that doctors could use. Also, old people feel happy when young people speak their language.
Other people think it costs too much money. They say governments should use money for bigger things like schools and hospitals. They also think English is more useful for jobs and business. These are good points because many countries don’t have enough money.
I think governments should try to save languages because when a language dies, we lose lots of important things. Just like should indigenous languages be preserved, this is important for history. Maybe they can spend less money but still help save languages by making special classes in schools.
In conclusion, even though it costs money, keeping old languages alive is very important for culture and history. Governments should find ways to save languages without spending too much.
Key Vocabulary
- preservation (n) /ˌprezəˈveɪʃən/ – the act of keeping something in its original state
- indigenous (adj) /ɪnˈdɪdʒɪnəs/ – naturally existing in a place
- linguistic (adj) /lɪŋˈɡwɪstɪk/ – relating to language
- heritage (n) /ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – features belonging to a culture
- cognition (n) /kɒɡˈnɪʃən/ – the mental action of acquiring knowledge
- worldview (n) /ˈwɜːldvjuː/ – a particular philosophy of life
- documentation (n) /ˌdɒkjumenˈteɪʃən/ – the process of recording information
Practice Suggestion
Try writing your own essay about the importance of global cooperation in addressing environmental issues and language preservation. Share your essay in the comments section for feedback and discussion with fellow learners.
