The topic of traditional ways and cultural heritage has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of tests between 2020-2023. Based on analysis of past exam papers, questions about cultural preservation and modernization are particularly prevalent in Asian test centers.
Analysis of Topic and Recent Questions
One of the most representative questions from recent tests is:
In many countries, traditional ways of life are being lost and some people believe that this is a negative development. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
This question type requires candidates to express and support their opinion on whether the loss of traditions is positive or negative for society.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The gradual disappearance of traditional lifestyles in many societies has sparked considerable debate. While some view this as detrimental to cultural identity, I partially agree with this perspective as I believe the loss of certain traditions is inevitable and can even be beneficial in some cases.
The erosion of traditional ways can indeed have several negative implications. First and foremost, it can lead to the loss of unique cultural identities that have been shaped over generations. For instance, in many Asian countries, traditional festivals and ceremonies that once united communities are now being replaced by modern celebrations, resulting in younger generations becoming disconnected from their cultural roots. Moreover, valuable traditional knowledge, particularly in areas like natural medicine and sustainable farming practices, risks being forgotten as societies modernize and adopt contemporary alternatives.
However, the transformation of traditional lifestyles also brings certain advantages. The abandonment of some outdated practices has led to significant social progress, particularly in terms of gender equality and individual freedom. For example, the declining influence of traditional marriage customs in many societies has given young people more autonomy in choosing their life partners. Additionally, modern approaches to education and healthcare have proven more effective than traditional methods in improving people’s quality of life.
In conclusion, while the loss of traditional ways can diminish cultural richness, it is part of natural societal evolution. The key lies in striking a balance between preserving valuable cultural heritage while embracing beneficial modern developments.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, many traditional ways of life are disappearing in different countries. Some people think this is a bad thing. I agree that losing traditions is negative because it affects our culture and identity.
The main reason why losing traditions is bad is because it makes us forget our culture. For example, in my country, young people don’t know many traditional songs and dances anymore. They prefer modern music and western dance styles. Also, traditional festivals are becoming less important, and many people don’t participate in them like before.
Another problem is that we lose important knowledge from the past. Old people know many things about natural medicine and farming, but young people don’t learn these skills anymore. They just buy medicine from shops and get food from supermarkets. This makes us depend too much on modern things.
However, some traditional ways are not good for modern life. Like some old beliefs about women not working or studying. These traditions should change because they are not fair. Also, modern medicine and education are better than traditional methods in many ways.
In conclusion, I think losing traditions is mostly negative, but we should keep good traditions and change bad ones. We need to find a way to keep our culture while living in the modern world.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear, logical organization with well-developed ideas
- Effective use of examples
- Natural cohesive devices
- Academic tone throughout
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis
- Basic vocabulary with some repetition
- Simple sentence structures
- Ideas present but less developed
- Basic cohesive devices
- More personal tone
Key Vocabulary
- erosion (n) /ɪˈrəʊʒn/ – gradual destruction
- detrimental (adj) /ˌdetrɪˈmentl/ – causing harm
- autonomous (adj) /ɔːˈtɒnəməs/ – independent
- diminish (v) /dɪˈmɪnɪʃ/ – become less
- cultural heritage (n) /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – traditions passed down
- sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to continue over time
- obsolete (adj) /ˈɒbsəliːt/ – no longer useful
- preservation (n) /ˌprezəˈveɪʃn/ – keeping something as it is
In summary, this topic remains crucial for IELTS candidates. Practice writing about similar themes like:
- The impact of technology on traditional crafts
- Modernization versus cultural preservation
- The role of traditions in modern society
Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.