The topic of “the role of arts and culture in national identity” is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on past exam patterns and current global trends, this subject is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Its relevance to cultural preservation, globalization, and national heritage makes it a prime candidate for examination. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays and in-depth analysis.

Analyzing the Task

Some people think that governments should spend money to support artists such as painters and musicians. Others believe that this money should be spent on other important things. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

This question directly addresses the role of arts in society and, by extension, its impact on national identity. It requires candidates to:

1. Discuss arguments for government support of artists
2. Explore counter-arguments prioritizing other areas of spending
3. Present a balanced view and personal opinion

Sample Essays for Different Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay

The debate over government funding for the arts versus allocation to other sectors is a contentious issue in many countries. While some argue that supporting artists is crucial for cultural development, others contend that these funds could be better utilized elsewhere. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view.

Proponents of government support for artists argue that the arts play a vital role in shaping and preserving national identity. Painters, musicians, and other creatives often capture the essence of a country’s culture, history, and values through their work. For instance, the iconic paintings of Vincent van Gogh are inextricably linked to Dutch cultural heritage. Moreover, a thriving arts scene can boost tourism and contribute significantly to the economy. Countries like France and Italy, renowned for their rich artistic traditions, attract millions of visitors annually, generating substantial revenue.

On the other hand, critics argue that government funds should prioritize more pressing needs such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. They contend that in a world facing numerous challenges, from poverty to climate change, allocating resources to the arts may seem frivolous. Additionally, some believe that true art should be self-sustaining and that government intervention might stifle creativity or lead to the production of state-approved art rather than genuine artistic expression.

In my opinion, while addressing basic needs is paramount, the importance of arts and culture in fostering national identity and social cohesion should not be underestimated. A balanced approach that allocates reasonable funding to the arts while prioritizing essential services would be ideal. Governments could implement programs that support artists while also addressing societal needs, such as using art therapy in healthcare or integrating arts education into school curricula. This way, the benefits of artistic expression can be harnessed to enhance other critical sectors.

In conclusion, while the debate over government funding for the arts versus other priorities is complex, I believe that a nuanced approach recognizing the value of both is necessary. By thoughtfully supporting the arts alongside other crucial areas, governments can foster a rich cultural landscape while addressing the diverse needs of their citizens.

(Word count: 329)

Band 6-7 Essay

The question of whether governments should fund artists or focus on other important areas is a topic of much debate. There are good arguments on both sides, and this essay will discuss these views before giving my own opinion.

Some people think that governments should give money to support artists like painters and musicians. They say that art is important for a country’s culture and identity. For example, famous paintings or music can represent a country and make people proud of their culture. Also, art can attract tourists and help the economy. Many people visit museums or concerts when they travel, which brings money to the country.

However, other people believe that government money should be spent on more important things. They argue that there are more urgent needs like healthcare, education, and fixing roads. These people think that helping sick people or providing better schools is more important than supporting artists. They might say that artists should find their own way to make money from their art.

In my opinion, both views have some truth. I think that governments should spend most of their money on essential things like healthcare and education. These are basic needs that help all people in the country. But I also believe that some money should go to support the arts. Art is important for making people happy and keeping cultural traditions alive. Maybe governments could find ways to support art that also help with other goals, like using art in schools or hospitals.

To conclude, while it’s important to focus on basic needs, governments shouldn’t completely ignore the arts. A balance between supporting essential services and cultural activities would be the best approach for a country’s overall well-being.

(Word count: 287)

Band 5-6 Essay

There is a big discussion about if governments should give money to artists or use it for other important things. Some people think it’s good to help artists, but others say no. I will talk about both ideas and then give my own opinion.

Some people say the government should give money to artists like painters and musicians. They think art is important for a country’s culture. When artists make good paintings or music, it can make the country famous. Also, art can bring tourists who spend money in the country. This helps the country’s money situation.

But other people think the government should not spend money on artists. They say there are more important things to spend money on. For example, hospitals, schools, and roads need money too. These things help all people in the country, not just artists. They think artists should make their own money by selling their art.

I think both sides have good points. Art is important for culture, but people also need good hospitals and schools. Maybe the government can spend a little money on art, but more on important things like health and education. They could also try to use art in schools and hospitals to make them better.

In the end, I think the government should spend most money on important things for everyone, but also remember that art is good for the country too. They should try to find a good balance.

(Word count: 234)

Analysis of Essays and Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and meets the criteria for a high band score:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed response with relevant, extended, and supported ideas.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphing is well-managed, and cohesive devices are used effectively.

3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Examples: “contentious issue,” “inextricably linked,” “stifle creativity.”

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and accuracy. Complex sentences are frequent and error-free.

Band 6-7 Essay Analysis

This essay shows good writing skills but with some limitations:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but some points are not fully extended or supported.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but some paragraphs are not well-linked. Cohesive devices are used but sometimes inaccurately.

3. Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used for the task, with some attempts at less common words. However, there are occasional errors in word choice.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used, but there are some errors in grammar and punctuation.

Band 5-6 Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates basic writing skills with notable limitations:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses the task but with limited development of ideas and minimal use of examples.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: There is a basic structure, but paragraphing is not always logical. Simple linking words are overused.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is limited and repetitive, with some errors in word formation and spelling.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Sentence structures are simple and repetitive, with frequent grammatical errors that sometimes impede communication.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. National identity (noun) /ˌnæʃənəl aɪˈdentəti/ – The sense of belonging to a nation
2. Cultural heritage (noun) /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – Traditions and artifacts passed down through generations
3. Thriving (adjective) /ˈθraɪvɪŋ/ – Prosperous and growing
4. Frivolous (adjective) /ˈfrɪvələs/ – Not having any serious purpose or value
5. Stifle (verb) /ˈstaɪfəl/ – To prevent or constrain
6. Cohesion (noun) /kəʊˈhiːʒən/ – The act or state of sticking together tightly
7. Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – Characterized by subtle shades of meaning
8. Contentious (adjective) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – Causing or likely to cause disagreement
9. Inextricably (adverb) /ˌɪnɪkˈstrɪkəbli/ – In a way that is impossible to separate
10. Paramount (adjective) /ˈpærəmaʊnt/ – More important than anything else

Government Funding Allocation Dilemma: Arts vs. Essential Services

Conclusion

The role of arts and culture in national identity is a complex and relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding different perspectives and practicing essay writing, you can improve your ability to address this theme effectively. Remember to consider related topics such as:

• The impact of globalization on traditional arts
• The role of museums in preserving cultural heritage
• Government policies for promoting national culture

We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active engagement will help you refine your writing skills and prepare for success in your IELTS exam.

For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:

• The Impact of Globalization on Traditional Food Industries
• How Urbanization is Affecting Local Cultures
• How Globalization Changes Local Traditions