Arts and culture play a crucial role in shaping and promoting national identity. This topic has appeared in various forms in IELTS Writing Task 2 over the years, and its significance is likely to increase in our globalized world. Let’s explore this theme through sample essays and in-depth analysis, focusing on a specific question that reflects real IELTS exam trends.
Some people think that governments should spend money to support the arts, while others believe that money should be spent on other priorities. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question touches on the broader theme of arts and culture in relation to national priorities. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for government funding of the arts
- Explore reasons why other priorities might be more important
- Provide a personal opinion with supporting reasons
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, followed by detailed analysis.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The allocation of government funds is a contentious issue, with some advocating for investment in the arts while others prioritize alternative sectors. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of government support for the arts argue that cultural expression is fundamental to national identity and social cohesion. Investing in museums, theaters, and cultural programs can preserve heritage, foster creativity, and enhance a nation’s global reputation. Moreover, a thriving arts sector can boost tourism and contribute significantly to the economy. For instance, the UK’s creative industries contribute £111.7 billion to the economy annually, highlighting the potential economic benefits of supporting the arts.
On the other hand, critics contend that government funds should be directed towards more pressing needs such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. They argue that these sectors have a more direct impact on citizens’ quality of life and the nation’s long-term development. In developing countries especially, allocating limited resources to basic necessities and essential services may seem more prudent than funding cultural initiatives.
In my opinion, while addressing fundamental societal needs is crucial, supporting the arts should not be overlooked. A balanced approach that recognizes the intrinsic value of culture alongside other national priorities is ideal. Governments could explore innovative funding models, such as public-private partnerships or tax incentives for corporate sponsorship of the arts, to ensure cultural development without compromising other essential sectors.
In conclusion, the debate over government funding for the arts versus other priorities reflects the complex challenge of resource allocation. A nuanced strategy that values both cultural enrichment and practical necessities is necessary for holistic national development.
(Word count: 276)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
There is a debate about whether governments should spend money on arts or focus on other important things. This essay will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Some people think governments should support arts because it is important for culture. Arts help keep traditions alive and make people feel proud of their country. Also, art can bring tourists and make money for the country. For example, famous museums like the Louvre in Paris attract millions of visitors every year.
However, other people believe there are more important things to spend money on. They think healthcare, education, and roads are more necessary. These things directly help people’s lives and are especially important in poor countries where many people don’t have basic needs met.
In my opinion, both arts and other priorities are important. Governments should try to support both if possible. Maybe they can find ways to support arts without spending too much money, like encouraging businesses to help pay for art projects.
To conclude, while other needs are very important, arts should not be forgotten. Governments should find a balance between supporting arts and focusing on other priorities to help their country grow in all ways.
(Word count: 204)
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Some people think government should give money to art, but others think it’s better to spend on other things. I will talk about both ideas and say what I think.
People who want money for art say it’s good for culture. Art makes country look nice and people happy. It can also bring tourists and help economy. For example, big art museums make lots of money from visitors.
But other people say we need money for more important things like hospitals and schools. They think these things help people more in their daily life. In poor countries, it’s more important to have food and houses than art.
I think both are important. Government should try to help art and also do other important things. Maybe they can find ways to support art that don’t cost too much money.
In the end, I believe government should think carefully about how to use money. They should try to help art but also make sure people have what they need to live well.
(Word count: 159)
Analysis of the Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates excellent command of the English language and addresses all parts of the task effectively:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses both viewpoints and clearly presents a personal opinion with well-developed ideas.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Cohesive devices are used effectively and appropriately.
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. For example, “contentious issue,” “social cohesion,” and “intrinsic value.”
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and accuracy. Complex sentences are handled with confidence.
Band 6-7 Essay Analysis
This essay shows a good attempt at addressing the task, with some areas for improvement:
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Task Achievement: Both views are discussed, and a personal opinion is given, but the ideas could be more fully developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but some cohesive devices are overused or underused.
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Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary, but some repetition occurs. More sophisticated lexical items could be used.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used, with generally good control, though some errors occur.
Band 5-6 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates a basic attempt at the task with limited language control:
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Task Achievement: Both views are presented, but the discussion lacks depth and detail.
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Coherence and Cohesion: There is a basic structure, but paragraphing and cohesive devices are limited.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is limited and repetitive, with some inaccuracies in word choice.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Simple sentences are used accurately, but there’s little attempt at complex structures.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Allocation (noun) /ˌæləˈkeɪʃən/ – the act of distributing something for a particular purpose
- Contention (noun) /kənˈtenʃən/ – disagreement or argument
- Cohesion (noun) /kəʊˈhiːʒən/ – the act or state of sticking together tightly
- Intrinsic (adjective) /ɪnˈtrɪnsɪk/ – belonging naturally; essential
- Prudent (adjective) /ˈpruːdənt/ – wise and careful about practical matters
- Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
- Holistic (adjective) /həʊˈlɪstɪk/ – characterized by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected
- Initiative (noun) /ɪˈnɪʃətɪv/ – the power or opportunity to act or take charge before others do
Conclusion
The role of arts and culture in promoting national identity is a complex and nuanced topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the different perspectives and using appropriate language and structures, you can craft compelling essays on this subject.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The impact of globalization on local cultures
- The role of traditional arts in modern society
- Government funding for cultural events versus practical infrastructure
Remember to focus on clear argumentation, varied vocabulary, and correct grammar. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!