The topic of social cohesion has increasingly appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams, particularly in recent years. Based on analysis from leading IELTS preparation websites and past exam databases, questions about community integration, social harmony, and cultural unity have featured prominently, with a predicted upward trend for 2024-2025.
The impact of cultural identity on social cohesion remains a critical factor in addressing this complex topic. Let’s examine one frequently encountered question type:
Some people believe that promoting social cohesion and unity is the government’s responsibility, while others think it depends on individuals within the community. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Question Analysis
This question requires:
- Discussion of two contrasting viewpoints
- Analysis of government vs. individual responsibility
- Personal opinion with supporting arguments
- Examples from real-world contexts
Government and community members working together to promote social cohesion
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The question of who bears primary responsibility for fostering social cohesion has sparked considerable debate. While some argue that governments should take the lead, others maintain that community members play the crucial role. In my view, both parties must work collaboratively to achieve meaningful social integration.
Those who advocate for government leadership make several compelling points. Governments possess the resources, authority, and infrastructure to implement large-scale social programs. They can enact anti-discrimination laws, fund multicultural initiatives, and create policies that promote equal opportunities for all citizens. For instance, Singapore’s government has successfully maintained racial harmony through housing policies that ensure ethnic integration in residential areas.
However, proponents of individual responsibility present equally valid arguments. Social cohesion ultimately depends on daily interactions and personal attitudes within communities. No amount of government intervention can force genuine acceptance and understanding between people. As demonstrated in many role of social services in public health initiatives, community-led programs often prove more effective than top-down approaches.
In my assessment, the most effective approach combines both governmental and individual efforts. Governments should provide the framework and resources for social integration, while individuals must actively participate in building inclusive communities. This synergy can be observed in successful multicultural societies where official policies support grassroots initiatives to promote cultural exchange and understanding.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Social cohesion is an important topic in modern society. Some people think the government should be responsible for it, while others believe it depends on individuals. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On one hand, governments have many ways to promote social unity. They can make laws to stop discrimination and create programs to help different groups of people come together. For example, they can organize cultural festivals and provide funding for community centers where people can meet and learn about each other’s traditions.
However, individuals also play an important role. People need to be willing to accept others who are different from them. If people don’t want to mix with others, government programs won’t work well. Like in many countries, when neighbors from different backgrounds make friends and help each other, it creates better community spirit.
I think both the government and individuals need to work together. The government should provide support and make good policies, but people must also make an effort to be friendly and accepting of others. This way, we can build a more united society.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with coherent arguments
- Balanced discussion with nuanced examples
- Professional academic tone
- Strong topic sentences and transitions
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Basic but clear vocabulary
- Simple but accurate sentence structures
- Limited range of complex expressions
- More general examples
- Basic organization and coherence
Key Vocabulary
- social cohesion (n) /ˈsəʊʃəl kəʊˈhiːʒən/ – unity between social groups
- integration (n) /ˌɪntɪˈɡreɪʃən/ – the process of joining a group or society
- multicultural (adj) /ˌmʌltiˈkʌltʃərəl/ – including many different cultures
- grassroots (adj) /ˈɡrɑːsruːts/ – involving ordinary people
- synergy (n) /ˈsɪnədʒi/ – combined effect greater than individual parts
For further practice, consider writing about importance of maintaining traditional practices in relation to social cohesion. Share your essays in the comments for community feedback and discussion.
