IELTS Writing Task 2: Language Preservation (Advantages Disadvantages) — Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers

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The Prompt

Some people believe that preserving local languages is crucial for cultural identity, while others argue that promoting a global language is more practical. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of preserving local languages.

Model Answers

Band 6.0 Answer

The preservation of local languages is important for culture, but there are also disadvantages.

One advantage of preserving local languages is that it helps people keep their culture. For example, in Wales, the Welsh language is very important for their identity. Another advantage is that old knowledge can be saved. However, there are disadvantages too. It can be expensive to teach and support many languages. Also, if everyone speaks different languages, it is harder to communicate around the world.

In conclusion, preserving local languages has both good and bad points. It is important to think about both sides before making decisions.

Scoring Breakdown:

• Task Response (TR): 5.0 - Presents a position but with limited development and some irrelevant points.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 6.0 - Logical sequencing is attempted but with some unclear referencing.
• Lexical Resource (LR): 6.0 - Attempts to use less common vocabulary but with some errors and limited range.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 6.0 - Attempts complex sentences but with frequent errors and some awkward phrasing.

Band 7.0 Answer

The preservation of local languages offers significant cultural benefits but also presents practical challenges.

Preserving local languages has clear advantages. Firstly, it maintains cultural identity. For instance, the Maori language in New Zealand plays a vital role in preserving their heritage. Secondly, it retains valuable traditional knowledge that might otherwise be lost. However, there are disadvantages. Teaching and supporting many languages can be costly for governments. Additionally, a multitude of languages can create communication barriers in international contexts.

In conclusion, while preserving local languages is beneficial for culture, it is essential to consider the practical implications.

Scoring Breakdown:

• Task Response (TR): 7.0 - Presents a clear position with relevant, extended arguments.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 7.0 - Logical sequencing is clear with some effective use of cohesive devices.
• Lexical Resource (LR): 7.0 - Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with some less common lexical items.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 7.0 - Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with some errors.

Band 8.0 Answer

The preservation of local languages is a double-edged sword, offering cultural enrichment but also posing significant challenges.

The advantages of preserving local languages are manifold. Primarily, it safeguards cultural identity, as seen in the revitalization of Hebrew in Israel. Moreover, it ensures the preservation of indigenous knowledge, which is often tied to the language itself. However, the disadvantages are equally compelling. The financial burden of supporting multiple languages can be substantial. Furthermore, linguistic diversity can hinder global communication and economic integration.

In conclusion, while the cultural benefits of preserving local languages are undeniable, the practical challenges must be carefully weighed.

Scoring Breakdown:

• Task Response (TR): 8.0 - Presents a clear position with fully extended and supported arguments.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 8.0 - Logical sequencing is clear with effective use of cohesive devices.
• Lexical Resource (LR): 8.0 - Uses a wide range of vocabulary with some less common lexical items used appropriately.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 8.0 - Uses a variety of complex sentence forms with some errors but minimal impact on communication.

Band 9.0 Answer

The preservation of local languages is a contentious issue, balancing cultural heritage against practical considerations.

The advantages of preserving local languages are profound. Firstly, it fortifies cultural identity, as exemplified by the preservation of Basque in Spain. Secondly, it ensures the continuity of traditional knowledge, which is often inextricably linked to the language. However, the disadvantages are equally significant. The financial implications of supporting multiple languages can be prohibitive. Additionally, linguistic diversity can create barriers to international communication and cooperation.

In conclusion, while the cultural benefits of preserving local languages are immense, the practical challenges necessitate a balanced approach.

Scoring Breakdown:

• Task Response (TR): 9.0 - Presents a clear position with fully extended, supported, and logically organized arguments.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 9.0 - Logical sequencing is clear with effective use of cohesive devices.
• Lexical Resource (LR): 9.0 - Uses a wide range of vocabulary with less common lexical items used appropriately and naturally.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 9.0 - Uses a wide range of complex sentence forms with minimal errors.

Vocabulary Highlights

1. Preservation (noun) - The act of keeping something in its original state. Example: The preservation of ancient texts is crucial for historical research.
2. Cultural identity (noun phrase) - The shared beliefs, practices, and customs that define a group. Example: Traditional festivals play a key role in maintaining cultural identity.
3. Revitalization (noun) - The process of restoring something to a former state of activity or prosperity. Example: The revitalization of the Welsh language has been a significant cultural achievement.
4. Indigenous (adjective) - Originating in and characteristic of a particular region or country. Example: Indigenous knowledge systems often provide unique insights into local environments.
5. Financial burden (noun phrase) - A heavy financial responsibility. Example: The financial burden of supporting multiple languages can strain government resources.
6. Linguistic diversity (noun phrase) - The variety of languages used within a community or region. Example: Linguistic diversity enriches cultural heritage but can pose communication challenges.
7. Contentious (adjective) - Causing or likely to cause disagreement. Example: The issue of language preservation is often contentious.
8. Fortifies (verb) - Strengthens or secures. Example: The preservation of local languages fortifies cultural identity.
9. Prohibitive (adjective) - So expensive or difficult as to prevent people from doing something. Example: The cost of supporting multiple languages can be prohibitive.
10. Balanced approach (noun phrase) - A strategy that considers multiple perspectives. Example: A balanced approach to language preservation is essential for addressing both cultural and practical concerns.

Common Mistakes

1. Overgeneralizing - Making broad statements without specific examples. *Example: