Global trade and its effects on cultural diversity is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. This topic has appeared in various forms over the years, reflecting its relevance to contemporary issues. Based on past trends, it’s likely to remain a popular subject for future exams. Let’s explore a specific question related to this theme and analyze sample essays for different band scores.
Some people think that globalization and international trade are destroying local cultures. Others believe that cultural traditions are too strong to be affected by these forces. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to discuss two contrasting viewpoints on the impact of globalization and international trade on local cultures. The task is to:
- Explain how globalization and international trade might be destroying local cultures
- Discuss why some believe cultural traditions are too strong to be affected
- Present your own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address both perspectives and clearly state your own stance to fully answer the question.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In today’s interconnected world, the debate over globalization’s impact on local cultures has intensified. While some argue that international trade and global influences are eroding traditional cultural practices, others maintain that deeply rooted customs are resilient enough to withstand these external pressures. In my opinion, while globalization does pose challenges to local cultures, it also offers opportunities for cultural enrichment and adaptation.
Those who believe globalization is detrimental to local cultures often point to the homogenization of consumer habits and lifestyle choices. The proliferation of multinational corporations and global brands has led to a certain uniformity in products and services available worldwide, potentially overshadowing local alternatives. For instance, traditional markets in many Asian countries are being replaced by Western-style supermarkets, altering not just shopping habits but also social interactions that were once integral to local culture. Moreover, the dominance of English as a global language and the widespread consumption of American media have raised concerns about linguistic and cultural imperialism.
On the other hand, proponents of cultural resilience argue that traditions are deeply ingrained and adaptable. They contend that core cultural values, beliefs, and practices are passed down through generations and are not easily displaced by external influences. The resurgence of interest in traditional arts, crafts, and customs in many countries experiencing rapid modernization supports this view. For example, Japan has successfully maintained many of its cultural traditions while becoming a global economic powerhouse. This demonstrates that economic integration and cultural preservation are not mutually exclusive.
In my assessment, the reality lies somewhere between these two perspectives. Globalization undoubtedly challenges certain aspects of local cultures, particularly in terms of material culture and superficial practices. However, it also provides a platform for cultural exchange and fusion, leading to new and vibrant forms of cultural expression. The key lies in striking a balance between embracing global opportunities and preserving cultural heritage.
The effects of international sporting events on the hosting country can serve as a microcosm of this dynamic. While such events bring global influences, they also often spark renewed interest in local traditions and customs, showcasing them to an international audience.
In conclusion, while globalization and international trade do pose challenges to local cultures, they do not necessarily lead to cultural destruction. Instead, they often catalyze a process of cultural evolution and adaptation. The resilience of cultural traditions, combined with conscious efforts to preserve and promote local heritage, can ensure that diversity thrives in our increasingly interconnected world.
(Word count: 419)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In today’s world, globalization and international trade are big topics. Some people think these things are destroying local cultures, but others believe that cultural traditions are too strong to be affected. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Firstly, those who think globalization is destroying local cultures have some good points. When big companies like McDonald’s or Starbucks come to a new country, they can change how people eat and spend time. This might mean that local restaurants and cafes lose business. Also, with the internet and social media, young people might be more interested in global trends than their own traditions. For example, in some countries, traditional clothes are worn less often as people prefer international fashion brands.
However, others argue that cultural traditions are very strong and can survive these changes. They say that important cultural practices, like religious festivals or family customs, are passed down through generations and are not easily forgotten. In many countries, even as they become more modern, people still celebrate their traditional holidays and keep their languages alive. For instance, in India, while many people use English for work, they still speak their local languages at home and during cultural events.
The importance of sustainable tourism for the environment shows how global interests can actually help preserve local cultures. When tourists want to see authentic local traditions, it encourages communities to maintain their cultural practices.
In my opinion, both sides have valid points, but I think the truth is somewhere in the middle. While globalization does change some aspects of local cultures, it doesn’t completely destroy them. Instead, cultures often adapt and mix global influences with local traditions. This can create new and interesting cultural forms. For example, fusion cuisine combines different culinary traditions to make new dishes.
To conclude, globalization and international trade do affect local cultures, but not always in a completely negative way. While some traditional practices might be lost, others are strengthened, and new cultural expressions can emerge. It’s important for communities to actively work to preserve their important traditions while also being open to positive changes from global influences.
(Word count: 367)
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Nowadays, globalization and international trade are very important. Some people think these things are destroying local cultures. But other people think cultural traditions are too strong to be affected. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
First, some people think globalization is bad for local cultures. They say that when big companies from other countries come, they change how people live. For example, when McDonald’s comes to a new country, people might eat less local food. Also, young people might like foreign movies and music more than their own country’s. This can make local culture less important.
But other people think cultural traditions are very strong. They say that important things like holidays and family customs don’t change easily. Even if people use new technology or wear modern clothes, they still celebrate their own festivals. For example, in China, people still celebrate Chinese New Year even though the country has changed a lot.
The effects of deforestation on local communities can be similar to how globalization affects cultures. Just as losing forests changes how people live, losing cultural practices can change communities.
I think both ideas are partly right. Globalization does change some things about local cultures. But it doesn’t destroy everything. Sometimes, it can even make people more interested in their own culture. For example, when people from different countries meet, they might want to share their own traditions.
In conclusion, globalization and international trade do affect local cultures, but not always in a bad way. While some old things might be lost, new and interesting cultural things can also happen. It’s important for people to remember their traditions but also be open to new ideas from other places.
(Word count: 296)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic:
- Coherent structure with clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion
- Comprehensive coverage of both viewpoints with well-developed arguments
- Sophisticated vocabulary and sentence structures (e.g., “homogenization”, “linguistic and cultural imperialism”)
- Effective use of examples to support arguments
- Clear personal opinion with nuanced analysis
- Excellent cohesion and paragraphing
Band 6-7 Essay:
This essay shows good writing skills but lacks the sophistication of the Band 8-9 essay:
- Clear structure with introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion
- Addresses both viewpoints with some development
- Good use of vocabulary, though less sophisticated than the Band 8-9 essay
- Some examples provided, but less specific and detailed
- Personal opinion stated, but analysis is less nuanced
- Good cohesion and paragraphing, but not as refined as the higher band essay
Band 5-6 Essay:
This essay demonstrates adequate writing skills but has noticeable limitations:
- Basic structure present, but less well-developed
- Addresses both viewpoints, but with limited depth
- Simple vocabulary and sentence structures
- Few specific examples, mostly general statements
- Personal opinion present, but with minimal explanation
- Basic cohesion and paragraphing, but less skillful than higher band essays
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Globalization (noun) /ˌɡləʊbəlaɪˈzeɪʃn/ – the process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence or start operating on an international scale
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Cultural imperialism (noun) /ˈkʌltʃərəl ɪmˈpɪəriəlɪzəm/ – the practice of promoting and imposing a culture, usually of a politically powerful nation, over a less powerful society
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Homogenization (noun) /həˌmɒdʒənaɪˈzeɪʃn/ – the process of making things uniform or similar
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Resilience (noun) /rɪˈzɪliəns/ – the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness
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Catalyst (noun) /ˈkætəlɪst/ – a person or thing that precipitates an event or change
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Fusion (noun) /ˈfjuːʒn/ – the process or result of joining two or more things together to form a single entity
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Imperialism (noun) /ɪmˈpɪəriəlɪzəm/ – a policy of extending a country’s power and influence through colonization, use of military force, or other means
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Adaptation (noun) /ˌædæpˈteɪʃn/ – the process of changing to suit different conditions
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Overshadow (verb) /ˌəʊvəˈʃædəʊ/ – to appear more prominent or important than someone or something else
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Proliferation (noun) /prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃn/ – rapid increase in numbers or amount of something
Conclusion
The impact of global trade on cultural diversity is a complex and nuanced topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. To excel in writing about this subject, it’s crucial to understand both perspectives: the potential threats to local cultures and the resilience of cultural traditions. Practice articulating your thoughts on this topic, using specific examples and sophisticated vocabulary to support your arguments.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The role of technology in preserving or eroding cultural traditions
- The impact of tourism on local cultures
- The effects of migration on cultural identity in both host and home countries
Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures, and provide specific examples to support your points. By doing so, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle similar questions in your IELTS Writing Task 2.
Feel free to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active approach to learning can significantly improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS exam.