Tourism has become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, with questions exploring its economic effects and sustainability concerns. Based on recent exam trends, we can expect this theme to remain prevalent in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past exams and analyze sample responses for different band scores.
Some people think that tourism is harmful to local cultures and the environment. Others believe that tourism benefits local communities. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the negative impacts of tourism on local cultures and the environment
- Explore the benefits of tourism for local communities
- Present and justify their own opinion on the issue
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, starting with a Band 8 response.
Band 8 Sample Essay
Tourism has become a significant economic driver for many countries, but its impact on local cultures and the environment is a subject of debate. While some argue that tourism can be detrimental to these aspects, others contend that it brings substantial benefits to local communities. In my opinion, tourism can be both beneficial and harmful, depending on how it is managed and regulated.
On the one hand, tourism can indeed pose threats to local cultures and the environment. Mass tourism often leads to the commercialization of traditional customs and rituals, turning them into mere spectacles for visitors and potentially diluting their cultural significance. Moreover, the influx of tourists can strain local resources, leading to environmental degradation. For instance, popular beach destinations often suffer from pollution and damage to marine ecosystems due to excessive tourist activities.
On the other hand, tourism can bring significant economic benefits to local communities. It creates employment opportunities, both directly in the hospitality sector and indirectly in supporting industries. This economic boost can lead to improved infrastructure and services, benefiting both tourists and locals alike. Furthermore, tourism can foster cultural exchange and understanding, promoting the preservation of local heritage as communities recognize its value as a tourist attraction.
In my view, the key to maximizing the benefits of tourism while minimizing its negative impacts lies in sustainable tourism practices. Governments and local authorities should implement strict regulations to protect the environment and cultural heritage. For example, limiting the number of visitors to sensitive areas or promoting eco-friendly accommodations can help preserve natural habitats. Additionally, involving local communities in tourism planning and ensuring they receive a fair share of the economic benefits can help maintain cultural authenticity and improve living standards.
In conclusion, while tourism can pose challenges to local cultures and the environment, its potential benefits for communities are significant. By adopting sustainable and responsible tourism practices, it is possible to strike a balance between economic development and the preservation of cultural and environmental integrity.
The importance of sustainable tourism. is evident in this context, as it offers a way to harness the economic potential of tourism while safeguarding local cultures and ecosystems.
(Word count: 345)
Sustainable tourism practices involving local community
Explanation of Band 8 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a Band 8 response:
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting the writer’s opinion.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, with some less common words and idiomatic expressions.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A variety of complex structures are used with flexibility and accuracy. There are no noticeable errors.
Now, let’s examine a Band 7 sample essay on the same topic.
Band 7 Sample Essay
Tourism has become a controversial topic, with some people arguing that it harms local cultures and the environment, while others believe it benefits local communities. Both viewpoints have merit, and I will discuss them before presenting my own opinion.
Those who argue against tourism often point to its negative impact on local cultures and the environment. When tourists flood into an area, it can lead to the commercialization of local traditions, turning them into performances rather than authentic practices. Additionally, popular tourist destinations often suffer from environmental problems such as pollution and overcrowding. For example, some beautiful beaches have been ruined by litter left behind by careless tourists.
On the other hand, supporters of tourism highlight its economic benefits for local communities. Tourism creates jobs in various sectors, from hotels and restaurants to tour guides and souvenir shops. This can significantly improve the standard of living for locals in areas that may have limited economic opportunities otherwise. Moreover, the income from tourism can be used to improve local infrastructure and services, benefiting both residents and visitors.
In my opinion, while tourism does pose some risks to local cultures and the environment, its potential benefits outweigh these drawbacks if managed properly. The importance of ethical tourism cannot be overstated in this context. By implementing sustainable tourism practices and educating both tourists and locals about cultural and environmental preservation, we can minimize the negative impacts while maximizing the benefits.
To conclude, tourism is a double-edged sword that can either harm or benefit local communities depending on how it is managed. With proper planning and regulation, I believe that tourism can be a positive force for economic development while preserving local cultures and protecting the environment.
(Word count: 291)
Explanation of Band 7 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a Band 7 response:
- Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, though some aspects are covered more thoroughly than others.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but some paragraphs could be better linked.
- Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used with some flexibility and precision. There are occasional errors in word choice or spelling, but they do not impede communication.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A variety of complex structures are used, but there may be a few errors in grammar and punctuation. These errors do not reduce communication.
Finally, let’s look at a Band 6 sample essay.
Band 6 Sample Essay
Nowadays, tourism is a big industry in many countries. Some people think it is bad for local cultures and the environment, but others say it helps local communities. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
First, tourism can be harmful to local cultures and the environment. When too many tourists come to a place, it can change the way local people live. For example, traditional festivals might become just shows for tourists instead of real cultural events. Also, tourists can damage nature by leaving trash or disturbing animals. Many beautiful places have been spoiled because of too many visitors.
However, tourism also brings benefits to local communities. It gives jobs to many people who work in hotels, restaurants, and shops. This helps the local economy grow. Tourists also bring money that can be used to improve roads, schools, and hospitals. This makes life better for local people.
In my opinion, tourism can be good if it is done in the right way. Governments should make rules to protect local cultures and the environment. They should also teach tourists to respect the places they visit. If this is done, tourism can help local communities without causing too much harm.
To conclude, tourism has both good and bad effects. I think the good effects can be more important if tourism is managed well. It’s possible to have tourism that helps local people and doesn’t destroy their culture or environment.
(Word count: 241)
The role of tourism in boosting local economies is significant, but it must be balanced with cultural and environmental preservation to ensure long-term sustainability.
Explanation of Band 6 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a Band 6 response:
- Task Response: The essay addresses the task, but some points are inadequately developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall structure, but paragraphing may be inadequate in places.
- Lexical Resource: An adequate range of vocabulary is used for the task, but there is a lack of precision in some areas.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used, but errors in grammar and punctuation occur, occasionally causing difficulty for the reader.
Tourism's impact on local economy, culture, and environment
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Commercialization (noun) – /kəˌmɜːrʃəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – the process of making something available for sale
- Dilute (verb) – /daɪˈluːt/ – to make something weaker in force, content, or value
- Influx (noun) – /ˈɪnflʌks/ – the arrival of large numbers of people or things
- Degradation (noun) – /ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃən/ – the process of becoming worse or of causing something to become worse
- Foster (verb) – /ˈfɒstər/ – to encourage the development of something
- Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to continue over a period of time
- Authenticity (noun) – /ˌɔːθenˈtɪsəti/ – the quality of being real or true
- Preserve (verb) – /prɪˈzɜːrv/ – to keep something in its original state or in good condition
- Controversial (adjective) – /ˌkɒntrəˈvɜːrʃl/ – causing disagreement or discussion
- Double-edged sword (idiom) – something that has both positive and negative effects
In conclusion, the topic of tourism’s economic impact and sustainability is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on various aspects of this theme, such as how does tourism affect the economy of developing countries or The impact of low-cost airlines on tourism. Remember to consider both positive and negative aspects, use relevant examples, and structure your essay coherently. You can also practice by writing your own essay on the topic discussed in this article and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
