Globalization has become an increasingly prominent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams, with its effects on traditional family values being a particularly common theme. This subject has appeared frequently in past tests and is likely to remain relevant in future exams due to its ongoing significance in our rapidly changing world.
Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:
Some people think that globalization has a negative effect on the traditions and culture of different countries. Others believe it helps people in developing countries improve their living standards. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the negative effects of globalization on traditions and culture
- Explain how globalization can improve living standards in developing countries
- Provide a personal opinion on the issue
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores to understand how to approach this topic effectively.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Globalization has undeniably transformed societies worldwide, sparking debates about its impact on cultural traditions and economic development. While some argue that it erodes unique cultural identities, others maintain that it enhances living standards in developing nations. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
On one hand, critics of globalization contend that it homogenizes cultures, leading to the erosion of traditional values and practices. As multinational corporations expand their reach, local businesses often struggle to compete, resulting in the loss of traditional livelihoods and customs. For instance, the proliferation of fast-food chains in many countries has led to a decline in traditional culinary practices. Moreover, the dominance of Western media and entertainment can influence local attitudes and behaviors, particularly among younger generations, potentially weakening their connection to their cultural heritage.
Conversely, proponents argue that globalization brings significant economic benefits to developing countries, thereby improving living standards. The influx of foreign investment creates job opportunities, stimulates economic growth, and facilitates technology transfer. This economic progress often translates into better healthcare, education, and infrastructure. For example, many developing nations have seen improvements in literacy rates and life expectancy as a result of increased global interconnectedness and access to resources.
In my opinion, while globalization does pose challenges to traditional cultures, its potential to improve living standards in developing countries outweighs these concerns. However, I believe that a balanced approach is necessary. Nations should strive to harness the economic benefits of globalization while implementing policies to preserve their cultural heritage. This could involve promoting local industries, supporting traditional arts and crafts, and incorporating cultural education into school curricula.
In conclusion, globalization is a complex phenomenon with both positive and negative implications for societies. By adopting a nuanced approach that embraces economic opportunities while safeguarding cultural traditions, countries can maximize the benefits of globalization while mitigating its potential drawbacks.
(Word count: 309)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Globalization has become a big topic in recent years, and people have different opinions about its effects on traditions and living standards. This essay will discuss both sides of this issue and give my personal view.
Some people think globalization has a negative impact on traditions and culture. When big international companies come to different countries, they can change the way people live and work. For example, traditional markets might close because of big supermarkets, and this can make local cultural practices disappear. Also, young people might start to prefer Western music and movies instead of their own country’s culture, which can make traditional culture less important.
On the other hand, globalization can help people in developing countries have better lives. When foreign companies invest in these countries, they create jobs and bring new technology. This can lead to better wages and more opportunities for people. Additionally, globalization can improve education and healthcare in these countries because they can learn from more developed nations.
In my opinion, while globalization does have some negative effects on traditions, the benefits it brings to developing countries are more important. I think it’s possible to find a balance between keeping traditions and enjoying the advantages of globalization. Countries should try to protect their culture while also welcoming the positive changes that come with global connections.
To conclude, globalization affects both traditions and living standards. Although it can harm some cultural practices, it also offers many opportunities for improvement in developing countries. The key is to manage these changes carefully to get the most benefit.
(Word count: 263)
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Globalization is a big change in the world today. Some people think it is bad for traditions and culture, but others say it helps poor countries. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
First, globalization can be bad for traditions. When big companies from other countries come, they can change how people live. For example, people might stop eating traditional food and eat fast food instead. This is not good for culture. Also, young people might like foreign movies and music more than their own country’s culture.
But globalization can also help poor countries. It can bring new jobs and money. When foreign companies come, they give people work. This helps people earn more money and have better lives. Also, poor countries can learn new things from rich countries, like better ways to do healthcare and education.
I think globalization has both good and bad points. It can hurt traditions, but it also helps poor countries a lot. Maybe countries can try to keep their traditions while also getting the good things from globalization. This way, they can have the best of both.
In conclusion, globalization changes traditions and helps poor countries. I think the good things are more important than the bad things. But countries should be careful to keep some of their traditions too.
(Word count: 208)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
- Presents a clear position throughout the essay
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features
- Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
- Ideas are coherent and there is clear progression throughout
- Uses cohesion in such a way that it attracts no attention
- Demonstrates awareness of style and collocation
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Presents a relevant position, although conclusions may become unclear or repetitive
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task with some evidence of style and collocation
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
- Arranges information and ideas coherently and there is a clear overall progression
- Uses cohesive devices effectively, but cohesion within and/or between sentences may be faulty or mechanical
- May have occasional errors in word choice, spelling and/or word formation
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
- Expresses a position but the development is not always clear
- Uses a limited range of vocabulary, but this is minimally adequate for the task
- May make noticeable errors in spelling and/or word formation that may cause some difficulty for the reader
- Uses only a limited range of structures with only rare use of subordinate clauses
- Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression
- Makes inadequate, inaccurate or over-use of cohesive devices
- May be repetitive due to lack of referencing and substitution
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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Traditions (noun) – /trəˈdɪʃnz/: Long-established customs or beliefs that have been passed on from one generation to another.
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Homogenize (verb) – /həˈmɒdʒənaɪz/: Make uniform or similar, to reduce or eliminate differences.
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Erode (verb) – /ɪˈrəʊd/: Gradually destroy or diminish.
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Proliferation (noun) – /prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃn/: Rapid increase in numbers.
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Influx (noun) – /ˈɪnflʌks/: An arrival or entry of large numbers of people or things.
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Nuanced (adjective) – /ˈnjuːɑːnst/: Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression.
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Mitigate (verb) – /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/: Make less severe, serious, or painful.
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Interconnectedness (noun) – /ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪdnəs/: The state of being connected with each other.
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Safeguard (verb) – /ˈseɪfɡɑːd/: Protect from harm or damage with an appropriate measure.
In conclusion, the impact of globalization on traditional family values remains a relevant and complex topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. As you prepare for your exam, consider practicing with similar questions, such as:
- Do you think globalization has more positive or negative effects on local cultures?
- How has technology, as a part of globalization, affected family relationships in your country?
- Should governments take steps to protect traditional cultures in the face of globalization? Why or why not?
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammar structures, and always address all parts of the question. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and further discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!