Cultural diversity in schools has become an increasingly important topic in recent years, reflecting the growing globalization of our world. This theme frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, making it crucial for test-takers to be well-prepared. Based on past exam trends and current global issues, we can expect this topic to remain relevant in future IELTS tests. Let’s explore a specific question related to cultural diversity in schools and analyze sample essays of varying band scores.
Analyzing the Task 2 Question
Some people think that schools should teach children the academic subjects that were taught in the past. Others believe that today’s schools should teach skills that are more relevant to contemporary society’s needs. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question indirectly addresses the issue of cultural diversity in schools by contrasting traditional academic subjects with more contemporary skills. It’s a common type of IELTS Writing Task 2 question that requires you to discuss both sides of an argument and then present your own opinion.
Key points to consider:
- Traditional academic subjects
- Contemporary skills relevant to modern society
- The balance between tradition and modernity in education
- The role of schools in preparing students for a diverse, globalized world
Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9
Cultural diversity is an essential aspect of modern education, and this essay will argue that while traditional subjects remain important, schools should prioritize teaching skills relevant to our increasingly diverse and interconnected world.
On one hand, proponents of traditional education argue that academic subjects such as mathematics, literature, and history provide a solid foundation for students’ intellectual development. These subjects have stood the test of time and offer valuable knowledge that forms the basis of cultural literacy. For instance, studying classic literature exposes students to diverse perspectives and historical contexts, indirectly promoting cultural understanding. Moreover, traditional subjects often teach critical thinking and analytical skills that are transferable to many aspects of life and work.
However, in today’s rapidly changing global society, there is a compelling argument for schools to focus more on contemporary skills. The interconnectedness of our world demands that students develop intercultural competence, digital literacy, and adaptability. These skills are crucial for success in a diverse workplace and for fostering global citizenship. For example, teaching students how to collaborate effectively with people from different cultural backgrounds prepares them for the realities of the modern workforce. Additionally, skills such as media literacy and critical evaluation of information sources are essential in our digital age, where misinformation can spread rapidly and influence social cohesion.
In my opinion, the ideal approach is to integrate both traditional subjects and contemporary skills, with a stronger emphasis on the latter. Schools should use traditional subjects as a vehicle to teach modern, relevant skills. For instance, history classes could focus on developing critical thinking about current global issues, while literature could be used to enhance intercultural understanding and empathy. This approach ensures that students gain a strong academic foundation while also acquiring the skills necessary to navigate and contribute positively to our diverse, globalized world.
In conclusion, while traditional academic subjects remain valuable, schools must evolve to meet the needs of contemporary society. By prioritizing skills that promote cultural diversity and global competence, educational institutions can better prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of our interconnected world. This balanced approach will not only enhance academic performance but also foster a more inclusive and harmonious global community.
(Word count: 345)
Cultural diversity in education
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that align with Band 8-9 criteria:
Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting the writer’s opinion. It provides well-developed ideas and relevant examples.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. It uses cohesive devices effectively and presents a clear central topic within each paragraph.
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is sophisticated and precise. Examples include “interconnectedness,” “intercultural competence,” and “global citizenship.”
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and appropriately. Complex sentences are used effectively without errors.
Development and Support: Each main idea is well-supported with relevant examples and explanations, demonstrating a sophisticated approach to the topic.
Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7
Today, there is a debate about what schools should teach students. Some people think schools should focus on traditional subjects, while others believe modern skills are more important. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support teaching traditional subjects say that these subjects are important for building a strong knowledge base. Subjects like math, science, and history have been taught for many years because they help students understand the world. For example, learning history can help students understand different cultures and how the world has changed over time. These subjects also help students develop important thinking skills that they can use in many areas of life.
On the other hand, people who think schools should teach modern skills argue that the world is changing quickly, and students need to be prepared for new challenges. They say that skills like using computers, working in teams, and understanding different cultures are very important in today’s world. These skills can help students find good jobs and be successful in a global society. For instance, knowing how to use technology is now essential in most jobs.
In my opinion, I think schools should teach both traditional subjects and modern skills. Traditional subjects provide a good foundation of knowledge, but modern skills are necessary for success in today’s world. Schools could combine these by teaching traditional subjects in new ways, like using technology in history classes or teaching teamwork in science projects. This way, students can learn important information and skills at the same time.
To conclude, while traditional subjects are valuable, schools need to adapt to the changing world. By teaching both old and new skills, schools can prepare students for the future while still giving them a strong educational background. This balanced approach will help students succeed in their studies and in their future careers.
(Word count: 309)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates qualities that align with Band 6-7 criteria:
Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and presenting the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is sometimes mechanical. Paragraphing is logical.
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, with some attempts at more sophisticated words. However, the range is more limited compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are some errors, but they do not impede communication.
Development and Support: Main ideas are supported with examples, but these could be more specific and detailed.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Cultural diversity (noun) – /ˈkʌltʃərəl daɪˈvɜːrsəti/ – the existence of a variety of cultural or ethnic groups within a society
- Intercultural competence (noun) – /ˌɪntərˈkʌltʃərəl ˈkɒmpɪtəns/ – the ability to communicate effectively and appropriately with people of other cultures
- Global citizenship (noun) – /ˈɡləʊbəl ˈsɪtɪzənʃɪp/ – the idea that all people have rights and civic responsibilities that come with being a member of the world
- Adaptability (noun) – /əˌdæptəˈbɪləti/ – the quality of being able to adjust to new conditions
- Critical thinking (noun) – /ˈkrɪtɪkəl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/ – the objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment
- Media literacy (noun) – /ˈmiːdiə ˈlɪtərəsi/ – the ability to identify different types of media and understand the messages they’re sending
- Interconnectedness (noun) – /ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪdnəs/ – the state of being connected with each other
- Cultural literacy (noun) – /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈlɪtərəsi/ – the ability to understand and participate fluently in a given culture
- Misinformation (noun) – /ˌmɪsɪnfəˈmeɪʃən/ – false or inaccurate information, especially that which is deliberately intended to deceive
- Social cohesion (noun) – /ˈsəʊʃəl kəʊˈhiːʒən/ – the willingness of members of a society to cooperate with each other in order to survive and prosper
Conclusion
Cultural diversity in schools is a crucial topic that is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. By understanding how to approach this theme from various angles, you can prepare yourself to write strong essays that demonstrate your language skills and critical thinking abilities.
To further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The role of language learning in promoting cultural understanding
- The impact of globalization on educational curricula
- The importance of teaching local cultures alongside global perspectives
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for the IELTS exam.