IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer (band score 8-9)
IELTS Essay # 498 - Every year several languages die out
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IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Every year several languages die out. Some people think that this is not important because life will be easier if there are fewer languages in the world.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1: [Agreement]
Each year, several languages become extinct, and it is argued by some that this is inconsequential, as fewer languages would simplify global interactions. I strongly concur with this viewpoint because I believe that reducing the number of languages worldwide can significantly enhance international communication and promote greater unity among diverse populations.
To commence with, fewer languages facilitate improved global communication, making interactions smoother and more effective among people. In today's increasingly interconnected world, clear communication across borders is essential for trade, diplomacy, cultural exchange and global peace. Having fewer languages would definitely mitigate misunderstandings, saving valuable time and resources. For example, multinational corporations predominantly utilise English to ensure coherent internal and external communication, enhancing operational efficiency. Therefore, fewer languages can streamline international interactions, thus enabling more seamless global cooperation.
Secondly, diminishing linguistic diversity can foster greater cultural integration and societal cohesion. Language differences frequently create cultural barriers that hinder mutual understanding and cooperation among nations. It happens more frequently than we realise. By narrowing these linguistic gaps, societies can cultivate stronger bonds and a heightened sense of unity. For instance, the widespread adoption of Spanish throughout Latin America has significantly bolstered regional integration, facilitating economic collaboration and cross-cultural exchanges. Consequently, fewer languages can serve as a bridge between communities, strengthening cultural connections and mutual understanding.
In conclusion, although some people may lament the loss of linguistic diversity, I firmly believe that having fewer languages globally would substantially enhance international communication and encourage greater cultural unity. Simplifying linguistic variety can help societies overcome barriers, creating a more connected and harmonious world.
Model Answer 2: [Disagreement]
Each year, some languages become extinct and some individuals argue that this is insignificant since fewer languages would simplify life and communication. However, I firmly disagree with this perspective, as I believe that language diversity is crucial for preserving cultural heritage and promoting intellectual richness.
Firstly, languages encapsulate and preserve cultural identities and heritage. When a language dies out, the traditions, histories, and cultural nuances it carries are often irretrievably lost. Languages provide insights into the ways communities understand the world, their environment, and social interactions. For example, the loss of indigenous languages, such as those of many Native American tribes, has resulted in the disappearance of unique traditional knowledge about medicinal plants, ecological wisdom, and ancestral customs. Thus, protecting linguistic diversity is essential for safeguarding humanity's collective cultural heritage.
Secondly, linguistic diversity enriches intellectual and cognitive perspectives, fostering creativity and innovation. Languages shape thought processes, influencing how people perceive and interpret their surroundings. A variety of languages contributes diverse viewpoints, enhancing problem-solving capabilities and creativity on a global scale. For instance, multilingual societies such as India and Switzerland exhibit impressive innovation, partly attributed to their linguistic diversity fostering varied approaches to challenges. Therefore, reducing the number of languages would inevitably limit intellectual diversity and hinder global creativity.
In conclusion, although fewer languages might superficially simplify global interactions, the resulting loss of cultural heritage and intellectual diversity is far-reaching and alarming. Protecting and preserving languages ensures cultural traditions continue to flourish and promote diverse intellectual thought. Therefore, the extinction of languages should be viewed as a significant concern, warranting active efforts to preserve linguistic diversity.
Idea Generation for this IELTS Essay:
Essay question:
Every year several languages die out. Some people think that this is not important because life will be easier if there are fewer languages in the world.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Essay type:
Opinion Essay (Agree/Disagree).
The main question of this essay:
Do you agree or disagree that it is not important when languages die out, as having fewer languages would make life easier?
Arguments in favour of having fewer languages (agree):
1. Improved global communication:
Fewer languages would significantly simplify global interactions, allowing smoother communication in trade, diplomacy, and social exchanges. As an example, international meetings and negotiations would be quicker and more efficient if fewer translation services were required.
2. Economic benefits and cost savings:
A reduction in language diversity could lower costs related to translation, language education, and multilingual services. To illustrate, multinational companies often spend considerable resources on language training, translation services, and marketing across linguistic barriers.
3. Enhanced educational efficiency:
Standardizing fewer languages can streamline educational systems and improve access to global resources and knowledge. For instance, students worldwide could easily access educational materials, online courses, and research published in commonly understood languages.
4. Easier international travel and mobility:
Fewer language barriers would make international travel and relocation more accessible and less intimidating. For example, tourists and expatriates would face fewer challenges adapting to new cultures if language differences were minimized.
5. Strengthened global unity and understanding:
Reduced linguistic diversity may promote global harmony and reduce cultural misunderstandings. For instance, common languages help foster mutual understanding and cultural exchange, thereby potentially decreasing conflicts based on misunderstandings.
Arguments against having fewer languages (disagree):
1. Loss of cultural heritage and identity:
When languages die, the cultural identity, traditional practices, and unique worldviews associated with them are also lost. For example, many indigenous languages embody traditional ecological knowledge that could disappear with their extinction.
2. Reduced intellectual diversity:
Language diversity contributes to diverse cognitive perspectives and innovative approaches to problem-solving. For instance, multilingual societies such as Switzerland and India exhibit creativity and innovation enhanced by linguistic diversity.
3. Negative emotional and social impact:
Loss of native languages can lead to feelings of alienation, marginalization, and social disconnection among affected communities. To illustrate, many indigenous communities report reduced self-esteem and cultural pride when their native languages decline.
4. Threat to linguistic and scientific research:
Each language offers insights into human cognition, communication, and social structures. Losing languages limits the scope of linguistic research. For instance, extinct languages can no longer provide data for studies in linguistics, anthropology, and psychology.
5. Potential rise in inequality:
Focusing on fewer dominant languages might further marginalize minority groups, exacerbating social and economic inequalities. As an example, people who are not fluent in widely spoken global languages may face employment discrimination or limited economic opportunities.
Sample Answer 3: [Agreement]
Some languages are disappearing each year due to the growing dominance of international languages. While this phenomenon has some negative consequences according to some, I believe that it ultimately makes life easier and more convenient. This essay will argue in favour of the statement that the extinction of some very minor languages is not a big concern, and our life would be easier if we had fewer languages.
To begin with, having fewer languages will enhance global communication and social interaction. If people speak a common language, they would no longer need to learn multiple languages or struggle with language barriers when travelling, working, or studying abroad. This would significantly improve people's ability to socialize and interact with individuals from different nationalities. For example, English, widely recognized as an international language, enables people to communicate effectively on social media platforms, allowing them to exchange ideas and engage in global discussions without linguistic difficulties.
Additionally, the use of a common language can reduce social and cultural discrimination. When people share a single language, they can maintain relationships more easily, regardless of nationality, race, religion, or economic background. For instance, in England, where English is the dominant language, there is relatively little social division based on language. In contrast, India, with its vast number of regional languages, experiences significant cultural and social disparities between different linguistic groups. By unifying people through language, societies can foster a greater sense of community and national identity.
In conclusion, while the decline of linguistic diversity may pose challenges for cultural preservation, it also offers significant advantages in terms of improved global communication and social unity. Therefore, we should not be too much concerned about the disappearing languages as fewer languages will make life and communication easier.
[Written by - Joy Thomas]
Firstly, languages serve as a gateway to history and culture. Each language reflects the traditions, beliefs, and historical experiences of the people who speak it. For example, the Chinese language has remained closely connected to its ancient form, allowing people to understand and appreciate China’s long history and traditions. If Chinese were to disappear, individuals who speak other languages, such as English or French, would struggle to fully comprehend the significance of Chinese festivals and architectural landmarks, such as the Forbidden City. Therefore, preserving linguistic diversity is essential for safeguarding cultural identity and historical understanding.
Secondly, the loss of languages would lead to the disappearance of valuable knowledge embedded in different linguistic traditions. Many cultural practices, culinary traditions, and scientific discoveries are recorded in specific languages. For instance, if only English, French, Spanish, and Chinese were spoken worldwide, many aspects of Japanese and Korean traditions, such as the art of Japanese tea-making or the preparation of traditional dishes like sushi and kimchi, might be lost or poorly understood. While having fewer languages might facilitate communication, it would also limit access to unique cultural knowledge and traditions, ultimately making societies less diverse and enriched.
In conclusion, preserving as many languages as possible is vital to protecting cultural heritage and valuable knowledge. Although a smaller number of languages may make communication more convenient, the loss of linguistic diversity would lead to irreversible cultural and intellectual decline. Therefore, efforts should be made to safeguard endangered languages and promote their continued use.
Language is undeniably a core part of cultural identity, and each ethnic group has its own language that reflects its unique heritage. It is essential for individuals to learn and preserve their native language to pass it down to future generations. If this does not happen, many languages will become extinct, leaving only a handful in use worldwide. A study conducted in India found that almost all Indians in India can speak Tamil fluently, whereas many Indians in Malaysia have lost proficiency in their ancestral language. This illustrates that without conscious efforts to preserve linguistic diversity, many languages will disappear, reducing the richness of global cultures.
Furthermore, the decline of languages inevitably leads to the loss of cultural traditions. Many aspects of a society’s history, customs, and values are embedded within its language. When a language disappears, many cultural traditions and indigenous knowledge systems are also lost. For example, recent research indicates that over the past decade, many traditional practices have vanished at an alarming rate in communities where native languages have become extinct. Without the ability to understand and transmit traditional knowledge through language, the younger generation loses touch with its cultural roots, leading to cultural homogenization.
In conclusion, the loss of languages has far-reaching negative effects, including the erosion of cultural identity and the disappearance of traditions. Therefore, it is crucial to implement effective measures to protect and preserve linguistic diversity so that future generations can continue to benefit from the rich heritage embedded in different languages.
One major reason why the disappearance of languages is a serious concern is that language is an integral part of cultural identity and heritage. Each language carries unique traditions, folklore, and historical knowledge that define a community. When a language dies out, the customs, beliefs, and oral histories associated with it often vanish as well. For example, many indigenous languages contain knowledge about medicinal plants and ecological conservation, which has been passed down through generations but is lost when the language becomes extinct.
Furthermore, language is far more than just a tool for communication; it is an integral part of cultural identity and heritage. Many ancient civilizations, such as Egypt, developed and thrived through language and communication. Similarly, Spain preserves its language as a symbol of national pride and identity. The disappearance of a language often leads to the erosion of cultural traditions, folklore, and historical knowledge. If languages are lost, so too are the unique customs and histories associated with them. Thus, linguistic diversity should be protected and preserved as a means of safeguarding cultural heritage.
In conclusion, while some people believe that reducing the number of languages would make communication easier, this view overlooks the cultural and historical significance of linguistic diversity. Preserving languages is essential for maintaining the richness of human civilization, and every effort should be made to ensure that they continue to be valued and passed down to future generations.
One common argument for language preservation is that it safeguards a community’s history, traditions, and identity. To some extent, this is true, as language serves as a vessel for cultural knowledge. However, the extinction of a language does not necessarily mean that the history and traditions of a people will be lost forever. Scholars have successfully deciphered ancient manuscripts and symbols from long-lost civilizations, demonstrating that historical knowledge can be preserved even without an actively spoken language. Therefore, while language is a key aspect of cultural heritage, its disappearance does not erase a society’s past.
Furthermore, the evolution of language is inevitable. Even modern English has undergone significant transformations compared to its form a century ago. Language adapts to the changing needs of society, often simplifying over time to facilitate more efficient communication. In this regard, the widespread adoption of dominant global languages could eliminate linguistic barriers, making communication easier in diplomacy, business, and international cooperation. A world with fewer languages would foster better mutual understanding and reduce cultural and linguistic divides.
Additionally, most languages that are at risk of extinction are spoken by only a small number of people, often within isolated tribes. As these communities advance in education and integrate with the broader society, they naturally adopt widely spoken languages for economic and social benefits. In such cases, ensuring a higher standard of living for these populations should take precedence over efforts to preserve their languages at all costs. Language extinction, in many instances, is a result of societal development rather than forced suppression.
Finally, modernization is an inevitable force, and linguistic trends reflect this shift. Prominent global languages will continue to prevail, and their widespread use will enhance global communication. As languages consolidate,
To commence with, the diversity of languages reflects the richness of world cultures and plays a crucial role in preserving history and identity. Each language represents the unique heritage and traditions of a community or tribe, and when a language disappears, a vital part of that culture is lost. Additionally, many traditional myths, folk tales, and ancient wisdom are recorded in minority languages, and their extinction threatens the survival of valuable cultural knowledge. For example, indigenous languages in remote areas often contain unique ecological knowledge that is not documented elsewhere. Losing these languages means losing centuries of insights into sustainable living and environmental conservation.
Furthermore, language fosters a sense of belonging and unity among its speakers, strengthening cultural ties. If minority languages continue to disappear, societies may experience cultural homogenization, where diverse traditions and identities are replaced by a single dominant culture. This loss of diversity could lead to a decline in creative expression, literature, and traditional art forms, making the world less culturally rich and diverse.
In conclusion, I strongly disagree with the notion that fewer languages would make life easier. Linguistic diversity is an essential part of human civilization, preserving cultural heritage and unique perspectives. Efforts should be made to protect endangered languages and pass them on to future generations.
[ Written by - Darwin Lesmana ]
It can be conceded that having a smaller number of languages would make life easier. This is especially true in many areas such as migration, business and education. If we consider a world where there were only one or two languages, communication would be far easier than it is now.
However, we cannot overlook the importance of language and the loss humankind will face by the demise of each one. It is the language that embodies the essence of each culture, people and nation. Of course, no language would become extinct if it is used. But with the great migrations these days, people adopt the customs and dialects of the places they go to and cease using their own. In turn, their traditions, customs and culture are what get extinct, not only the language. Following this, the next generation even becomes oblivious to their roots.
Another reason why this is critical is because every language has its sophistication and charm which cannot be replicated in others. Therefore, besides the fact that individuals find it easier to communicate in their native tongues, it may not be possible to express all ideas and concepts in all languages. German is a typical example which has single words for everything under the sun, a feature that is unique to it.
Ultimately, are languages dying out crucial? Definitely so. When any language ceases to exist, what is lost is a part of humanity, a component that made us human.
According to some, the extinction of languages may cause cultural destruction. In terms of one’s own original identity, language plays an important role because languages not only possess the way of expression but also covers a wide range of tribal and national heritage. So to maintain its uniqueness and to pass it onto its descendants it is important to keep the language alive in its original area.
However, fewer languages would help reduce the language barrier among people and nations. For instance, with the disappearance of local tribal languages and recognition of international ones, people will experience uniformity in communication and work including business deals, education, work opportunities, migration and so on. People will get an equal employment opportunity and some would easily take benefits of expanding their business at the international level. With fewer available languages, people would easily understand other nations and that would enhance their diplomatic relationship. Hence, it is more logical that this is going to turn away hurdles of the global relationship.
In conclusion, we should foster and accept the unique diversity of languages but also accept the natural trends of a language because fewer languages in the world mean better communication and understanding among nations.
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