Cultural sensitivity has become an increasingly important topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, reflecting its significance in today’s globalized world. Based on analysis of past exam patterns, questions related to importance of cultural awareness in global workplaces have appeared frequently in recent years.
Teaching cultural sensitivity in a diverse classroom setting
Analysis of Common Question Types
One recurring question type focuses on the importance of multicultural education in globalized societies. Let’s examine a recent exam question:
Some people believe that schools should teach children about cultural sensitivity and respect for different cultures. Others think this responsibility belongs to parents. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Task Analysis
- Topic: Cultural sensitivity education
- Task type: Discussion + Opinion
- Key elements: School education vs. parental responsibility
- Focus: Evaluating both perspectives and providing a reasoned opinion
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate over who should bear the responsibility for teaching children about cultural sensitivity has gained significant attention. While some argue this falls under schools’ duties, others maintain it should be parents’ role. In my view, both institutions play crucial roles in developing cultural awareness in young people.
Those who support school-based cultural education argue that educational institutions provide structured learning environments with trained professionals. Teachers can implement systematic approaches to teaching importance of teaching children about cultural diversity, utilizing diverse resources and organized curricula. Moreover, schools offer practical opportunities for children to interact with peers from different cultural backgrounds, providing real-world experience in cultural sensitivity.
Conversely, proponents of parental responsibility emphasize that cultural values are fundamentally personal and should be taught within family contexts. Parents can provide continuous guidance and demonstrate cultural respect through daily interactions and family practices. Furthermore, they can tailor cultural education to align with their family’s values while fostering appreciation for other cultures.
In my opinion, the most effective approach combines both school and parental involvement. Schools can provide structured learning and diverse exposure, while parents can reinforce these lessons through practical application at home. This collaborative approach ensures children receive comprehensive cultural education that addresses both theoretical understanding and practical implementation.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, teaching cultural sensitivity to children is very important. Some people think schools should do this, but others believe parents should teach it. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Schools can teach cultural sensitivity in many good ways. Teachers know how to explain different cultures to students and can use books and activities to make learning fun. Also, children can meet friends from other cultures at school, which helps them learn about different traditions naturally.
Parents also have an important role in teaching cultural sensitivity. They can show their children how to respect other cultures through their own behavior. They spend more time with their children and can answer questions about cultural differences when they come up in daily life.
I think both schools and parents should work together to teach children about cultural sensitivity. This is better because children can learn in different ways and get more understanding about other cultures. When schools and parents both teach this, children learn better.
Vocabulary Analysis
- cultural sensitivity (n) /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˌsensɪˈtɪvɪti/ – awareness and respect for different cultures
- systematic (adj) /ˌsɪstəˈmætɪk/ – using a planned, organized method
- curricula (n) /kəˈrɪkjʊlə/ – courses offered by an educational institution
- proponents (n) /prəˈpoʊnənts/ – people who advocate for something
- collaborative (adj) /kəˈlæbəreɪtɪv/ – involving working together
Task Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Clear position throughout
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Well-developed arguments with relevant examples
- Excellent coherence and cohesion
- Natural use of academic language
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Clear but simpler position
- Good but less sophisticated vocabulary
- Basic argument development
- Adequate coherence
- Some repetition in expression
For additional practice, consider writing about the importance of cultural education in reducing global conflicts. Share your essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.
