Globalization and its influence on youth culture is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. This topic has appeared in various forms over the years, reflecting its relevance in today’s interconnected world. Based on past trends, we can expect similar questions to arise in future IELTS exams. Let’s examine a sample question that closely resembles those seen in recent tests:
Some people think that the growing influence of international culture is a positive trend for young people around the world. Others believe it is a negative development. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question asks candidates to explore the impact of global culture on youth. It requires a balanced approach, discussing both positive and negative aspects, before presenting a personal viewpoint. The key elements to address are:
- The positive effects of international culture on young people
- The negative consequences of this trend
- Your own opinion on whether this influence is overall beneficial or detrimental
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, starting with a high-scoring response.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The increasing influence of global culture on young people worldwide is a subject of intense debate. While some argue that this trend offers numerous advantages, others contend that it poses significant risks. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view.
Proponents of international cultural influence argue that it broadens young people’s horizons and fosters understanding between nations. Exposure to diverse cultures through media, travel, and the internet can enhance tolerance and empathy, crucial skills in our interconnected world. Moreover, this global outlook can provide youth with better educational and career opportunities, as they become more adaptable to different environments and work cultures.
On the other hand, critics worry about the erosion of local traditions and values. They fear that the dominance of Western culture, in particular, may lead to a homogenization of youth culture worldwide, potentially causing the loss of unique cultural identities. Additionally, there are concerns about the negative aspects of global culture, such as consumerism and materialism, which may adversely affect young people’s values and priorities.
In my opinion, while the concerns about cultural homogenization are valid, the benefits of international cultural influence outweigh the drawbacks. The key lies in striking a balance between embracing global trends and preserving local heritage. Education systems and families play a crucial role in helping young people navigate this global landscape while maintaining a strong sense of their own cultural roots.
In conclusion, the growing influence of international culture on youth is a complex phenomenon with both positive and negative implications. However, if managed thoughtfully, it has the potential to create a more open-minded, tolerant, and globally competent generation.
(Word count: 275)
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear, balanced discussion of both viewpoints before offering a well-supported personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, and the use of cohesive devices (e.g., “On the other hand”, “Moreover”, “In conclusion”) enhances the flow of ideas.
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately. Phrases like “erosion of local traditions”, “homogenization of youth culture”, and “navigating this global landscape” demonstrate sophisticated lexical control.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a variety of complex sentence structures used accurately. It effectively employs different grammatical forms, including conditionals, passive voice, and relative clauses.
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Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of the topic.
Now, let’s examine a sample essay for a lower band score.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The impact of global culture on young people is a topic that many people talk about today. Some think it’s good, while others see it as a problem. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
There are several good things about international culture influencing youth. First, it helps young people learn about different countries and ways of life. This can make them more open-minded and respectful of others. Also, knowing about global trends can help in finding jobs or studying abroad. For example, a young person who understands American culture might find it easier to study in the US.
However, there are also negative points to consider. One big worry is that local cultures might disappear if everyone follows global trends. This could mean losing important traditions and values. Another problem is that some parts of global culture, like fast food or violent movies, might be bad for young people’s health or behavior.
In my opinion, I think the influence of international culture is mostly positive for young people. It gives them more opportunities and knowledge. But I also believe it’s important to keep local traditions alive. The role of culture in shaping identity is crucial, and young people should find a balance between global and local influences.
To conclude, while there are both good and bad aspects of global culture influencing youth, I believe the benefits are greater. The key is to embrace the good parts of international culture while not forgetting one’s own cultural roots.
(Word count: 263)
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates competence in addressing the task, but with some limitations:
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Task Response: The essay covers all parts of the task, presenting both views and offering a personal opinion. However, the ideas are less fully developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated. Paragraphing is appropriate, but the links between ideas could be stronger.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate for the task, with some attempts at less common words (e.g., “open-minded”, “traditions”). However, the range is more limited compared to the higher band essay.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences generally accurately. There are fewer advanced grammatical structures compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Development of Ideas: Main points are supported with relevant ideas, but the level of detail and explanation is less extensive than in the higher band essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Globalization (noun) – /ˌɡləʊbəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – the process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence or start operating on an international scale.
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Cultural homogenization (noun phrase) – /ˈkʌltʃərəl həˌmɒdʒənaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – the reduction in cultural diversity through the popularization and diffusion of a wide array of cultural symbols.
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Erosion (noun) – /ɪˈrəʊʒən/ – the gradual destruction or diminution of something.
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Adaptable (adjective) – /əˈdæptəbl/ – able to adjust to new conditions or environments.
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Empathy (noun) – /ˈempəθi/ – the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.
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Consumerism (noun) – /kənˈsjuːmərɪzəm/ – the protection or promotion of the interests of consumers; often criticized as the preoccupation of society with the acquisition of consumer goods.
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Heritage (noun) – /ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – valued objects and qualities such as cultural traditions that have been passed down from previous generations.
In conclusion, the influence of globalization on youth culture remains a significant topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future questions might explore related themes such as:
- The impact of social media on young people’s cultural identity
- The role of education in preserving local cultures in a globalized world
- The effects of international brands on youth consumer behavior
To further improve your skills, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section. This practice will help you refine your writing abilities and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.
The influence of culture on consumer behavior and how social media shapes cultural identity are closely related topics that you might also encounter in IELTS Writing Task 2. Familiarizing yourself with these themes will broaden your understanding and enhance your ability to address a wide range of cultural topics in the exam.