Cultural assimilation topics have consistently appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly between 2019-2023. Based on analysis of past papers, questions about cultural integration and preservation arise approximately every 4-5 months, making it a high-probability topic for future tests.
Today’s Sample Question
Some people believe that when people move to a new country, they should adopt the local customs and traditions. Others think immigrants should maintain their own cultural identities. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Question Analysis
This question requires:
- Discussion of two contrasting views on cultural assimilation
- Clear personal stance
- Balanced analysis of benefits and drawbacks
- Relevant examples and supporting evidence
- Conclusion with justified opinion
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate over whether immigrants should embrace their host country’s culture or preserve their original traditions is increasingly relevant in our globalized world. While both approaches have merit, I believe a balanced integration that respects both cultures is most beneficial.
Those advocating for complete cultural adoption argue that it promotes social cohesion and reduces cultural friction. When immigrants learn local customs, speak the language fluently, and participate in traditional celebrations, they can integrate more seamlessly into society. For instance, many successful Asian professionals in Western countries have achieved career advancement by understanding and adopting local business etiquette while maintaining professional relationships.
However, maintaining one’s cultural identity offers significant advantages. Cultural heritage provides psychological stability and emotional connection to one’s roots. Moreover, cultural diversity enriches host societies through new perspectives, cuisine, art, and traditions. Cities like London and New York demonstrate how multicultural communities can thrive while preserving distinct cultural identities.
In my view, the optimal approach is a thoughtful combination of both perspectives. Immigrants should respect and adapt to essential local customs while preserving valuable aspects of their heritage. This creates a dynamic cultural exchange that benefits both newcomers and host communities. For example, many second-generation immigrants successfully navigate both cultures, speaking multiple languages and celebrating both traditional and local festivals.
In conclusion, while cultural adaptation is important for social integration, maintaining one’s cultural identity need not be sacrificed. The key lies in finding a harmonious balance that enriches both individual lives and society as a whole.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
In today’s world, many people move to different countries. Some think they should follow new customs, but others want to keep their own culture. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who support adopting local customs have good reasons. First, it helps immigrants fit in better. When they learn the language and follow local traditions, they can make friends easier and find better jobs. Also, it reduces problems between different groups in society. For example, when immigrants celebrate local festivals, local people feel happy and welcome them more.
On the other hand, keeping original culture is also important. People feel proud of their traditions and want to teach them to their children. Different cultures make a country more interesting with new food, music, and ideas. In my city, we have many foreign restaurants that local people enjoy very much.
I think both views are correct. Immigrants should learn important things about their new country like language and basic customs. But they should also keep good things from their culture. This way, everyone can learn from each other and live together happily.
In conclusion, the best way is to mix both cultures. This helps immigrants feel comfortable while making the new country better with different traditions.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Clear, sophisticated argument development
- Excellent paragraph organization
- Advanced vocabulary: “cultural friction,” “psychological stability,” “dynamic cultural exchange”
- Complex sentence structures
- Relevant examples and smooth transitions
- Coherent conclusion with clear position
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Basic but clear argument
- Simple paragraph structure
- Limited vocabulary range
- Mostly simple sentences
- Basic examples
- Some repetition
- Clear but simple conclusion
Key Vocabulary
- assimilation (n) /əˌsɪməˈleɪʃən/ – integration into a society
- cultural heritage (n) /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – traditions passed down
- cohesion (n) /kəʊˈhiːʒən/ – unity between people
- etiquette (n) /ˈetɪket/ – formal behavior rules
- multicultural (adj) /ˌmʌltiˈkʌltʃərəl/ – involving several cultures
- integration (n) /ˌɪntɪˈɡreɪʃən/ – joining and mixing in society
- customs (n) /ˈkʌstəmz/ – traditional practices
- heritage (n) /ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – cultural traditions
Similar topics likely to appear in future tests include:
- Impact of globalization on local cultures
- Preserving traditional values in modern society
- Cultural identity in the digital age
- Effects of migration on cultural diversity
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share in the comments for feedback!