IELTS Writing Task 2: Language Preservation - Band 7.5 Sample Answer

Related guides:

• IELTS Writing Task 2: Juvenile Justice – Band 8.0 Sample…
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Traffic Congestion - Band 6.5 Sample…
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Juvenile Justice - Band 7.0 Sample…
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Social Media Influencers - Band 7.0…
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Road Safety – Band 8.0 Sample with…

The Prompt

Some people believe that preserving local languages is more important than promoting a universal language. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Sample Answers

Band 6.0 Answer

There are many languages in the world and some people think it is important to keep them. Other people think we should have one language for everyone. I think having one language is better.

First, if everyone speaks the same language, it is easier to communicate. For example, in business, people from different countries can talk to each other without problems. Also, if there is one language, people can understand movies, books, and news from other countries. This makes the world smaller and more connected.

But some people say local languages are important because they have history and culture. For example, in Spain, there are different languages like Catalan and Basque. These languages are part of the culture and history of the people who speak them. If these languages disappear, part of the culture disappears too.

In conclusion, I think it is better to have one language because it makes communication easier. But I understand that local languages are important for culture. Maybe we can find a way to keep both.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): 5.0 - Presents a position but with limited development.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 6.0 - Uses some connecting words but lacks clear progression.
• Lexical Resource (LR): 6.0 - Uses some less common vocabulary but with some repetition.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 6.0 - Uses simple sentence forms with frequent errors.

Band 7.5 Answer

The preservation of local languages versus the promotion of a universal language is a contentious issue. While some advocate for the global adoption of a single language to facilitate communication, others emphasize the cultural significance of linguistic diversity. I firmly believe that preserving local languages is more crucial.

Proponents of a universal language argue that it would streamline global communication and commerce. For instance, English has become a lingua franca in business and technology, enabling seamless interaction across borders. Additionally, a universal language could enhance access to education and information, as resources would be more widely available. However, this perspective overlooks the profound cultural value embedded in local languages. Languages are not merely tools for communication; they are repositories of history, traditions, and unique worldviews. The extinction of a language often signifies the loss of an entire cultural heritage. For example, the Maori language of New Zealand encapsulates the indigenous people's connection to their land and ancestors, a bond that would be irreparably damaged if the language were to disappear.

Moreover, linguistic diversity fosters cognitive diversity. Studies have shown that bilingual or multilingual individuals often exhibit enhanced problem-solving skills and creativity. The preservation of local languages, therefore, contributes to a richer, more diverse global intellectual landscape. While the practical benefits of a universal language are undeniable, the cultural and cognitive richness offered by linguistic diversity is invaluable and warrants prioritization.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): 7.0 - Presents a clear position with logical development but could be more fully extended.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 7.5 - Uses a mix of cohesive devices effectively, though some paragraphs could be more clearly connected.
• Lexical Resource (LR): 8.0 - Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with some less common lexical items.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 7.5 - Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with frequent grammatical control but some errors.

Band 8.0 Answer

The debate surrounding the preservation of local languages versus the promotion of a universal language is multifaceted. While the practical advantages of a global lingua franca are evident, the cultural and cognitive value of linguistic diversity cannot be understated. I contend that prioritizing the preservation of local languages is essential for maintaining cultural heritage and intellectual richness.

Advocates for a universal language posit that it would simplify global communication and foster economic growth. The widespread use of English in international business and academia underscores this point. A universal language could indeed facilitate the exchange of ideas and resources, potentially leading to increased collaboration and innovation. However, this utilitarian perspective risks oversimplifying the complex role that languages play in shaping cultural identities. Each language is a unique lens through which a community views the world, and the loss of a language often entails the erasure of that perspective. For instance, the indigenous languages of the Americas encode intricate knowledge systems about the natural world, which would be lost if these languages were to vanish.

Furthermore, linguistic diversity is intrinsically linked to cognitive diversity. Research in neuroscience and psychology suggests that multilingualism enhances executive functions such as problem-solving and multitasking. By preserving local languages, societies retain not only cultural heritage but also cognitive diversity, which is vital for addressing complex global challenges. While the practical benefits of a universal language are compelling, they pale in comparison to the irreplaceable value of linguistic and cultural diversity. Therefore, efforts should be directed towards supporting and revitalizing local languages, ensuring that the world's linguistic tapestry remains vibrant and diverse.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): 8.0 - Presents a clear position with thorough development and extension.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 8.0 - Uses cohesive devices effectively, with clear progression and logical organization.
• Lexical Resource (LR): 8.5 - Uses a wide range of vocabulary with considerable flexibility and precision.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 8.0 - Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with frequent grammatical control and flexibility.

Key Vocabulary

1. Contentious (adj.) - causing or likely to cause an argument; controversial.

• Example: The issue of language preservation is contentious among linguists.

1. Linguistic (adj.) - relating to language or linguistics.

• Example: Linguistic diversity is crucial for cultural preservation.

1. Repository (n.) - a place where things are stored or can be found.

• Example: Local languages are repositories of cultural heritage.

1. Extinction (n.) - the state or process of being or becoming extinct.

• Example: The extinction of a language can lead to the loss of cultural identity.

1. Cognitive (adj.) - relating to the mental processes of perception, memory, judgment, and reasoning.

• Example: Linguistic diversity fosters cognitive diversity.

1. Utilitarian (adj.) - designed for use without decoration; functional.

• Example: The utilitarian perspective of a universal language overlooks cultural values.

1. Intrinsic (adj.) - belonging naturally; essential.

• Example: Linguistic diversity has intrinsic value for cognitive development.

1. Irreparably (adv.) - in a way that cannot be repaired or rectified.

• Example: The loss of a language can irreparably damage cultural heritage.

1. Underscore (v.) - to emphasize the importance of something.

• Example: The widespread use of English underscores the benefits of a universal language.

1. Enhance (v.) - to increase or improve in value, quality, or extent.

• Example: Preserving local languages can enhance cultural richness.

1. Intricate (adj.) - having many interconnected parts or elements.

• Example: Indigenous languages encode intricate knowledge systems.

1. Erasure (n.) - the action of obliterating or removing something.

• Example: The loss of a language can lead to the erasure of a cultural perspective.

1. Neuroscience (n.) - the scientific study of the nervous system.

• Example: Research in neuroscience shows the benefits of multilingualism.

1. Pal (v.) - to lose intensity or effectiveness.

• Example: The benefits of a universal language pale in comparison to linguistic diversity.

1. Vibrant (adj.) - full of energy and enthusiasm.

• Example: Efforts should be made to keep the world's linguistic tapestry vibrant.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overgeneralization: Avoid making sweeping statements without sufficient evidence or examples.
2. Lack of Clarity: Ensure your arguments are clear and well-structured to avoid confusion.
3. Repetition: Use a variety of vocabulary and sentence structures to avoid repetition.
4. Grammatical Errors: Pay attention to grammatical accuracy to avoid losing marks.
5. Insufficient Development: Ensure each paragraph is fully developed with supporting ideas and examples.

Get Your Own Response Scored by AI on English AIdol

Practice makes perfect. Get your own responses scored by AI on English AIdol and get personalized feedback to improve your IELTS Writing Task 2 scores.