Social cohesion in diverse societies has become an increasingly important topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent exam analysis from leading IELTS preparation websites, questions about social integration and cultural harmony appear in approximately 15% of tests, particularly in countries with significant immigrant populations. Similar to how sports can be used to address social issues, this topic explores various approaches to building unified communities.
Common Task 2 Question Types
One frequently appearing question format is:
Some people believe that governments should take measures to promote social cohesion in increasingly diverse societies. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
Task Analysis
- Topic: Government’s role in promoting social cohesion
- Task type: Opinion (Agree/Disagree)
- Key points to address:
- Definition of social cohesion
- Government’s potential measures
- Benefits and challenges
- Personal stance with supporting arguments
Band 8 Model Answer
In today’s globalized world, the question of maintaining social harmony in multicultural societies has become increasingly crucial. While some argue this should be left to natural social evolution, I strongly agree that governments must take active steps to promote cohesion among diverse populations.
Government intervention is essential primarily because it can create institutional frameworks that facilitate integration. For instance, Singapore’s housing policy deliberately mixes different ethnic groups in public housing estates, preventing the formation of isolated cultural enclaves and fostering daily interactions among various communities. Similarly, Canada’s multicultural education programs in schools have successfully promoted understanding and respect among different cultural groups, demonstrating how structured initiatives can build bridges between communities.
Moreover, government measures can address systemic barriers that might otherwise prevent social integration. This includes implementing anti-discrimination laws, providing language training for immigrants, and ensuring equal access to public services. These fundamental steps create a level playing field where meaningful interactions can naturally develop. Just as Should governments impose stricter controls on immigration? remains a debated topic, the method of implementation requires careful consideration.
However, such interventions must be carefully balanced to avoid appearing heavy-handed or counterproductive. Successful programs typically combine top-down policies with grassroots community involvement, ensuring that integration efforts respect cultural identities while promoting shared civic values. For example, Australia’s Harmony Day celebrations demonstrate how government initiatives can support community-led efforts to celebrate diversity while building national unity.
In conclusion, while social cohesion may develop naturally to some extent, government intervention plays a vital role in creating the conditions necessary for diverse communities to thrive together. The key lies in implementing thoughtful, balanced policies that promote integration while respecting cultural differences.
Band 6.5 Model Answer
I agree that governments should help create unity in diverse societies because this is important for peace and development. This essay will discuss why government action is needed and some ways to do it.
First, governments can help different groups understand each other better. They can organize cultural festivals where people share their traditions and food. For example, in my country, the government supports special events where different communities come together to celebrate. This helps people learn about other cultures and make friends.
Also, governments can make rules to stop discrimination. When people are treated fairly at work and school, they feel more accepted in society. The government can punish companies that treat workers differently because of their background. This makes society more fair for everyone.
However, sometimes government programs don’t work well. If they force people to mix together too much, it might make some people angry. The government should be careful and respect all cultures while trying to bring people together.
In conclusion, I think governments should help create unity, but they must do it carefully. When different groups in society get along well, everyone benefits. The government should continue making programs that help people understand each other better.
Score Analysis
Band 8 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “institutional frameworks,” “systemic barriers”
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear organization with cohesive devices
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Academic tone throughout
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Basic sentence structures
- Some development of ideas
- Limited use of examples
- More personal tone
Key Vocabulary
- Social cohesion (n) /ˈsəʊʃəl kəʊˈhiːʒən/ – unity between social groups
- Multicultural (adj) /ˌmʌltiˈkʌltʃərəl/ – including many cultural groups
- Integration (n) /ˌɪntɪˈɡreɪʃn/ – the process of joining society as an equal member
- Systemic barriers (n) /sɪˈstemɪk ˈbæriəz/ – obstacles built into social systems
- Grassroots (adj) /ˈɡrɑːsruːts/ – involving ordinary people
- Cultural enclaves (n) /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈenkleɪvz/ – areas where specific cultural groups live
- Anti-discrimination (adj) /ˌænti dɪˌskrɪmɪˈneɪʃn/ – preventing unfair treatment
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments. Future similar topics might include questions about cultural preservation in diverse societies or the role of education in promoting social unity.