The topic of protecting indigenous languages is increasingly relevant in our globalized world and has been featured in several IELTS Writing Task 2 questions over the years. Based on past exam trends and the growing importance of cultural preservation, it’s likely that this theme will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s explore a sample question and analyze how to approach it effectively for different band scores.
Some people believe that it is important to protect indigenous languages from extinction, while others think that using one language worldwide would be more beneficial. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question asks you to discuss two contrasting viewpoints:
- The importance of protecting indigenous languages
- The benefits of using a single global language
You’re also required to provide your own opinion on the matter. This is a classic example of an IELTS Writing Task 2 question that tests your ability to present balanced arguments and express your personal stance.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Here’s a high-quality essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:
In an increasingly interconnected world, the debate between preserving indigenous languages and adopting a single global language has gained significant traction. While both perspectives have merit, I believe that protecting linguistic diversity is crucial for maintaining cultural heritage and fostering a richer global society.
Proponents of a universal language argue that it would facilitate seamless communication across borders, potentially reducing misunderstandings and conflicts. A common tongue could streamline international business transactions, scientific collaborations, and diplomatic relations. Moreover, it might level the playing field in education and employment opportunities globally, as language barriers would no longer hinder individuals from accessing information or pursuing careers abroad.
However, the importance of preserving indigenous languages cannot be overstated. Languages are not merely tools for communication; they are repositories of unique cultural knowledge, worldviews, and traditions. Each language encapsulates centuries of wisdom, including specialized knowledge about local ecosystems, medicinal practices, and sustainable living techniques. The importance of cultural heritage preservation extends to languages, as they are integral to maintaining diverse cultural identities and fostering a sense of belonging among communities.
Furthermore, linguistic diversity contributes to cognitive diversity. Research has shown that bilingualism and multilingualism enhance cognitive flexibility, problem-solving skills, and creativity. By preserving indigenous languages, we nurture a global population with diverse thought processes and innovative potential, which is invaluable in addressing complex global challenges.
In my opinion, while the idea of a universal language is appealing for its practical benefits, the cost of losing linguistic diversity would be too high. Instead, we should strive for a balance where a common language (such as English) serves as a lingua franca for international communication, while simultaneously investing in the preservation and promotion of indigenous languages. This approach would allow us to reap the benefits of global connectivity without sacrificing the rich tapestry of human culture and knowledge embedded in diverse languages.
In conclusion, while a single world language might offer short-term convenience, the long-term benefits of protecting indigenous languages far outweigh this. By safeguarding linguistic diversity, we preserve cultural heritage, maintain cognitive diversity, and ensure a more vibrant and resilient global society for future generations.
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay would likely receive a high band score (8-9) for several reasons:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting a personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices.
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Lexical Resource: It demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary used accurately and appropriately (e.g., “repositories of unique cultural knowledge,” “cognitive flexibility”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately, with only minor errors, if any.
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Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Here’s an essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:
In today’s world, there is a debate about whether we should protect indigenous languages or use one language globally. Both ideas have their advantages and disadvantages, and I will discuss them in this essay.
Some people think that using one language worldwide would be better. This could make communication easier between different countries. For example, in business or science, everyone could understand each other without translation. It might also help people to find jobs in other countries more easily. Additionally, a single language could reduce misunderstandings that sometimes cause problems between nations.
On the other hand, many believe that protecting indigenous languages is important. These languages are part of a community’s culture and history. If a language disappears, we might lose important knowledge about local traditions and ways of life. Globalization’s effect on languages has already caused many indigenous languages to become endangered. Moreover, speaking multiple languages can be good for the brain and help people think in different ways.
In my opinion, while having a common global language is useful, we should still try to protect indigenous languages. I think we can use English or another language for international communication, but also keep our own languages. This way, we can enjoy the benefits of easy global communication without losing the cultural richness that different languages provide.
To conclude, both views have their merits, but I believe a balance between global communication and preserving linguistic diversity is the best approach for our world.
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay would likely receive a band score in the 6-7 range for the following reasons:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the development of ideas is less thorough compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, with some errors that do not impede communication.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented and supported, but with less depth and fewer specific examples compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Indigenous (adjective) /ɪnˈdɪdʒənəs/ – originating or occurring naturally in a particular place
- Extinction (noun) /ɪkˈstɪŋkʃən/ – the state or process of being or becoming extinct
- Linguistic diversity (noun phrase) /lɪŋˈɡwɪstɪk daɪˈvɜːrsəti/ – the variety of languages spoken in a specific region or in the world as a whole
- Cultural heritage (noun phrase) /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – the legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society
- Cognitive flexibility (noun phrase) /ˈkɒɡnətɪv ˌfleksəˈbɪləti/ – the ability to adapt behavior and thinking in response to the environment
- Lingua franca (noun) /ˌlɪŋɡwə ˈfræŋkə/ – a language that is adopted as a common language between speakers whose native languages are different
- Bilingualism (noun) /baɪˈlɪŋɡwəlɪzəm/ – the ability to speak two languages fluently
- Globalization (noun) /ˌɡləʊbəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – the process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence or start operating on an international scale
- Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/ – a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment
- Preservation (noun) /ˌprezəˈveɪʃən/ – the action of preserving something
Conclusion
The topic of protecting indigenous languages is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Should indigenous languages be preserved is a question that touches on broader themes of cultural identity, globalization, and diversity, making it a rich subject for discussion in the exam.
To prepare for similar topics, consider practicing with these potential questions:
- Do you think governments should invest in preserving indigenous languages? Why or why not?
- How does the loss of indigenous languages affect cultural diversity?
- In what ways can modern technology help in preserving endangered languages?
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to fully address the question, present well-developed arguments, and showcase your language skills. Practice writing essays on this topic and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.