IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Essays: The Effects of Climate Change on Culture – Band-wise Examples and Analysis

Climate change’s impact on cultural practices and traditions has become an increasingly common theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in recent years. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams, questions about cultural changes due to environmental factors appear approximately once every 4-5 tests. Similar to the effects of climate change on agriculture, this topic requires candidates to demonstrate understanding of both environmental and societal issues.

Sample Question Analysis

Some people believe that climate change is causing the loss of traditional cultures and ways of life around the world. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

This question requires candidates to:

• Take a clear position on the relationship between climate change and cultural loss
• Support arguments with specific examples
• Consider multiple aspects of how environmental changes affect cultural practices
• Provide a balanced discussion while maintaining their stance

Band 8-9 Sample Essay

Climate change has indeed become a significant threat to traditional cultures worldwide, and I strongly agree that it is contributing to the erosion of many communities’ traditional ways of life. Just as The impact of climate change on indigenous cultures shows, this phenomenon has far-reaching implications for cultural preservation.

Firstly, climate change directly impacts traditional practices tied to natural cycles and environments. Many indigenous communities base their cultural ceremonies and lifestyle patterns on specific seasonal changes, wildlife migrations, or agricultural cycles. When these natural patterns are disrupted by climate change, the associated cultural practices become increasingly difficult to maintain. For example, Arctic communities can no longer reliably predict ice conditions for traditional hunting practices, leading to the gradual abandonment of age-old customs.

Furthermore, climate-induced displacement poses an existential threat to cultural continuity. When communities are forced to relocate due to rising sea levels or extreme weather events, they often struggle to maintain their traditional practices in new environments. This is particularly evident in Pacific Island nations, where entire communities face the prospect of becoming climate refugees, potentially losing their connection to ancestral lands and associated cultural practices.

However, some cultures are demonstrating remarkable resilience and adaptation. Many communities are finding innovative ways to preserve their traditions while adapting to environmental changes, similar to how the effects of globalization on food security has led to adaptive responses. For instance, some indigenous groups are documenting their cultural practices digitally and modifying traditional ceremonies to accommodate changing environmental conditions.

In conclusion, while climate change poses a serious threat to traditional cultures, the response of affected communities shows both vulnerability and resilience. It is crucial to address climate change not only as an environmental issue but as a cultural preservation challenge as well.

Indigenous communities adapting traditional practices to climate change

Band 6-7 Sample Essay

I agree that climate change is having a big effect on traditional cultures around the world. The changes in weather patterns and natural environments are making it hard for many communities to continue their traditional ways of life.

Climate change affects traditional cultures in several ways. First, many communities depend on specific weather patterns for their traditional farming methods. When these patterns change, they cannot grow their traditional crops anymore. This affects not only their food but also their cultural practices related to farming and harvesting.

Also, some communities are being forced to move because of flooding or extreme weather. When people move to new places, they often lose connection with their traditional lands and customs. For example, some island communities in the Pacific Ocean are having to leave their homes because of rising sea levels.

However, some traditional cultures are trying to adapt to these changes. They are finding new ways to keep their traditions alive while dealing with environmental changes. Some communities are using modern technology to record their cultural practices for future generations.

In conclusion, climate change is definitely causing problems for traditional cultures, but some communities are finding ways to preserve their traditions despite these challenges.

Key Vocabulary:

1. Cultural erosion (n) /ɪˈrəʊʒn/ – gradual loss or destruction of cultural characteristics
2. Indigenous (adj) /ɪnˈdɪdʒɪnəs/ – naturally existing in a place or native to an area
3. Cultural continuity (n) /kʌltʃərəl kənˈtɪnjuːɪti/ – preservation and continuation of cultural practices
4. Ancestral (adj) /ænˈsestrəl/ – relating to or inherited from ancestors
5. Climate refugees (n) /ˈklaɪmət ˈrefjuːdʒiːz/ – people forced to leave their homes due to climate change
6. Resilience (n) /rɪˈzɪlɪəns/ – ability to recover from difficulties
7. Cultural preservation (n) /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˌprezəˈveɪʃn/ – maintaining traditional practices and customs

For additional practice, try writing your own essay about how The effects of climate change on biodiversit impacts cultural practices. Share your essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.