The preservation of linguistic diversity is a recurrent theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. This topic often appears under broader subjects like cultural preservation, globalization, and education. Here’s a glimpse into some possible IELTS essay prompts related to this theme:
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“Some people believe that preserving linguistic diversity by maintaining local languages is essential. Others think it is more beneficial to promote a single global language. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.”
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“Many languages are disappearing every year. Is it necessary to save them? Why or why not?”
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“To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statement? ‘Preserving endangered languages is a futile effort in the modern world.’”
To demonstrate how to tackle these prompts, we’ll choose one and develop a complete essay around it.
Chosen Essay Prompt
“Some people believe that preserving linguistic diversity by maintaining local languages is essential. Others think it is more beneficial to promote a single global language. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.”
Analyzing the Prompt
This prompt demands a discussion of both perspectives concerning linguistic diversity and the promotion of a single global language. It also requires providing a clear opinion on the matter.
Sample Essay
Introduction
Linguistic diversity is an integral part of our global heritage. While some advocate for the preservation of local languages to maintain cultural diversity, others argue that promoting a single global language would lead to better communication and understanding. This essay will examine both viewpoints and provide a reasoned opinion.
Body Paragraph 1: The Importance of Preserving Local Languages
Advocates for the preservation of local languages often emphasize their cultural significance. Each language carries unique historical, social, and intellectual heritage, the loss of which would rob humanity of diverse worldviews and traditions. For instance, native languages in Australia and North America encapsulate ancient knowledge about local ecosystems that may be invaluable for environmental conservation efforts. Furthermore, maintaining local languages promotes cultural identity and pride, fostering a sense of belonging among communities.
Body Paragraph 2: The Argument for a Single Global Language
On the other hand, proponents of a single global language argue that it would facilitate communication and cooperation across the globe. English, for example, has already established itself as the lingua franca in international business, science, and technology. A unified method of communication could streamline global interactions, reducing misunderstandings and fostering unity. For immigrants and international students, learning a single global language can open doors to better educational and employment opportunities, thereby enhancing their prospects for success.
Body Paragraph 3: Personal Opinion and Conclusion
In my opinion, while the promotion of a single global language has its advantages, the preservation of local languages is crucial for maintaining our cultural heritage. We can achieve a balance by encouraging multilingualism, where individuals are fluent in both a global language and their native tongues. This approach ensures that we reap the benefits of global communication without sacrificing cultural diversity. Ultimately, preserving linguistic diversity enriches humanity’s tapestry, offering varied perspectives that contribute to our collective wisdom.
(Word count: 302)
Preserving Linguistic Diversity
Key Considerations When Writing About This Topic
Vocabulary and Grammar Tips
- Use precise vocabulary: Terms like “lingua franca”, “multilingualism”, and “cultural heritage” are useful.
- Complex sentences: Use a combination of simple, compound, and complex sentences to demonstrate language proficiency.
- Cohesive devices: Ensure paragraphs are linked with logical connectors like “furthermore”, “on the other hand”, and “thus”.
Difficult Vocabulary to Remember
- Linguistic Diversity [noun]: /ˈlɪŋɡwɪstɪk daɪˈvɜːrsəti/ — The variety of languages spoken within a specific area or by a community.
- Cultural Heritage [noun]: /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈhɛrɪtɪdʒ/ — The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society inherited from past generations.
- Multilingualism [noun]: /ˌmʌltɪˈlɪŋɡwəlɪzəm/ — The ability to speak and understand multiple languages.
- Lingua Franca [noun]: /ˈlɪŋɡwə ˈfræŋkə/ — A common language used between speakers whose native languages are different.
- Endangered Languages [noun]: /ɪnˈdeɪndʒərd ˈlæŋɡwɪdʒəz/ — Languages that are at risk of falling out of use entirely.
Conclusion
In summary, the preservation of linguistic diversity is a multifaceted issue that strikes a balance between embracing a global language for practical communication and maintaining cultural uniqueness through local languages. Essay prompts on this topic encourage you to explore various perspectives, and forming a balanced viewpoint often leads to a higher band score. For further practice, contemplate related topics such as the importance of maintaining cultural traditions, and should endangered languages be preserved.
Additional Practice Prompts:
- “Many traditional languages are at risk of extinction due to globalization and technological changes. What measures can be taken to preserve them?”
- “Some people argue that governments should allocate funds to preserve endangered languages. Do you agree or disagree?”
By engaging with these prompts, you can deepen your understanding and improve your writing skills on the topic of linguistic diversity.
