Mastering Cultural Diversity in IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays and Expert Analysis

In recent years, the topic of cultural diversity in a globalized world has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This theme reflects the growing importance of cross-cultural understanding in our interconnected global society. Based on an analysis of past IELTS exams and current global trends, we can expect this topic to continue appearing frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams and provide sample essays to help you prepare.

Analyzing the Question

In today’s globalized world, some people believe that cultural diversity is disappearing. Others think cultural differences are becoming more pronounced. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question requires candidates to examine two contrasting viewpoints on cultural diversity in the context of globalization. It’s essential to:

1. Discuss the perspective that cultural diversity is diminishing
2. Explore the opposing view that cultural differences are becoming more noticeable
3. Provide your personal opinion on the matter

Let’s look at three sample essays addressing this question, each targeting a different band score.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Globalization has sparked a debate about its impact on cultural diversity. While some argue that it leads to cultural homogenization, others contend that it actually accentuates cultural differences. In my opinion, both processes are occurring simultaneously, resulting in a complex interplay between global uniformity and local distinctiveness.

Those who believe cultural diversity is waning point to the widespread adoption of Western cultural elements worldwide. The ubiquity of American fast-food chains, Hollywood movies, and English as a lingua franca in business and academia suggests a trend towards cultural convergence. Moreover, as people increasingly consume similar media and products, traditional customs and languages may be at risk of erosion. For instance, many indigenous languages are facing extinction as younger generations gravitate towards more globally dominant languages.

Conversely, proponents of the view that cultural differences are becoming more pronounced argue that globalization has paradoxically heightened awareness of cultural uniqueness. As people encounter diverse cultures through travel, media, and immigration, they often develop a stronger appreciation for their own cultural heritage. This has led to movements to preserve and celebrate cultural traditions, languages, and practices. Additionally, the ease of global communication has enabled diasporic communities to maintain strong connections with their cultural roots, reinforcing distinct identities.

In my view, the reality encompasses both perspectives. While certain aspects of culture are indeed becoming more homogenized due to global influences, this very process has triggered a countermovement of cultural preservation and revitalization. The result is a dynamic landscape where global and local forces interact, creating new hybrid cultures while simultaneously reinforcing traditional identities.

In conclusion, the impact of globalization on cultural diversity is multifaceted. Rather than simply erasing or amplifying differences, it has created a complex environment where cultures evolve, adapt, and redefine themselves in response to global pressures and opportunities. The challenge lies in fostering a world that embraces the benefits of global interconnectedness while respecting and preserving the rich tapestry of human cultural diversity.

(Word count: 309)

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and providing a nuanced personal opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices (e.g., “Conversely,” “Moreover,” “In conclusion”).

3. Lexical Resource: The writer uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “ubiquity,” “lingua franca,” “paradoxically,” “diasporic communities”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a variety of complex structures with a high degree of accuracy (e.g., “While certain aspects of culture are indeed becoming more homogenized due to global influences, this very process has triggered a countermovement of cultural preservation and revitalization.”).

5. Critical Thinking: The essay demonstrates sophisticated analysis by acknowledging the complexity of the issue and providing a balanced perspective.

Cultural diversity in a globalized world

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

In today’s world, people have different opinions about cultural diversity. Some think it’s disappearing because of globalization, while others believe cultural differences are becoming more obvious. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

On one hand, some people argue that cultural diversity is decreasing. They say this is because of globalization, which makes countries more similar. For example, you can find McDonald’s and Starbucks in many countries now, and many people wear similar clothes and listen to the same music. Also, English is becoming more common as a global language, which might make some local languages less important.

On the other hand, others believe that cultural differences are becoming more noticeable. They say that as people travel more and learn about other cultures, they become more aware of their own culture. This can make people want to protect their traditions and customs. For instance, many countries now have festivals to celebrate their traditional culture, and people are more interested in learning about their heritage.

In my opinion, both views have some truth. While globalization does make some aspects of culture more similar across the world, it also makes people more aware of cultural differences. I think this can lead to a mix of global and local cultures, where people enjoy both international and traditional things.

To conclude, cultural diversity in the globalized world is a complex issue. While some parts of culture are becoming more similar, others are being emphasized and protected. The challenge is to find a balance between global connections and preserving unique cultural identities.

(Word count: 270)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates good competence in several areas:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and providing a personal opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing and some use of cohesive devices (e.g., “On one hand,” “On the other hand,” “To conclude”).

3. Lexical Resource: The writer uses a sufficient range of vocabulary, though not as sophisticated as the Band 8-9 essay (e.g., “globalization,” “traditions,” “heritage”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control, though not as varied as the higher band essay.

5. Ideas Development: The essay provides relevant examples and explanations, though not as in-depth as the Band 8-9 essay.

Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)

These days, people think different things about culture in the world. Some say it’s going away, but others think it’s getting stronger. I will talk about both ideas.

First, some people think cultural diversity is disappearing. They say this because many countries have similar things now. For example, we can see American restaurants in many places. Also, many people wear jeans and t-shirts, even in different countries. English is used a lot too, so some people might not speak their own language as much.

But other people think cultural differences are more clear now. They say when people travel or use the internet, they learn about other cultures. This makes them think more about their own culture. Some countries have big parties to show their culture, like dance or food festivals.

I think both ideas are a little bit right. The world is more connected now, so some things are the same in many places. But people also want to keep their own culture. Maybe we can have both global and local things in our lives.

In the end, culture in the world is changing. Some parts are becoming the same, but some are different. We need to think about how to keep our own culture while also being part of the big world.

(Word count: 219)

Analysis of Band 5-6 Essay

This essay demonstrates adequate competence but with some limitations:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses the main parts of the task but with less depth and detail compared to higher band essays.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a basic structure but uses simpler linking words and phrases (e.g., “First,” “But,” “In the end”).

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate but limited, with some repetition and less precise word choices.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay mainly uses simple sentence structures with occasional attempts at more complex sentences. There are some errors, but they don’t significantly impede communication.

5. Ideas Development: The essay provides some relevant examples and ideas but lacks the depth and sophistication of higher band essays.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Cultural diversity (noun) – /ˈkʌltʃərəl daɪˈvɜːrsəti/ – The existence of a variety of cultural groups within a society.

2. Globalization (noun) – /ˌɡləʊbəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – The process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence or start operating on an international scale.

3. Homogenization (noun) – /həˌmɒdʒənaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – The process of making things uniform or similar.

4. Indigenous (adjective) – /ɪnˈdɪdʒənəs/ – Originating or occurring naturally in a particular place; native.

5. Lingua franca (noun) – /ˌlɪŋɡwə ˈfræŋkə/ – A language that is adopted as a common language between speakers whose native languages are different.

6. Diasporic (adjective) – /daɪəˈspɒrɪk/ – Relating to the movement, migration, or scattering of a people away from an established or ancestral homeland.

7. Revitalization (noun) – /ˌriːvaɪtəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – The action of imbuing something with new life and vitality.

8. Hybrid (noun/adjective) – /ˈhaɪbrɪd/ – Something of mixed origin or composition.

9. Erosion (noun) – /ɪˈrəʊʒən/ – The gradual destruction or diminution of something.

10. Convergence (noun) – /kənˈvɜːdʒəns/ – The process or state of coming together or becoming similar.

Conclusion

The topic of cultural diversity in a globalized world is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. As you prepare for your exam, consider practicing with similar questions, such as:

• How does globalization affect local cultures and traditions?
• Should governments take steps to preserve minority languages in the face of globalization?
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of cultural exchange in the modern world?

Remember to analyze the question carefully, plan your essay structure, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to your target band score. Practice writing essays on these topics and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.