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IELTS Essay: Traditional Ideas and Young people

by Dave | Real Past Tests | 6 Comments

IELTS Essay: Traditional Ideas and Young people

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of the traditional ideas and how helpful they are for young people in the future from the real IELTS exam.

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IELTS Essay: Traditional Ideas and Young People

Traditional ideas from older people about the way to live and behave are not helpful to young people and their futures.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Many are of the belief that past traditions now hold little future value for young people. In my opinion, there are still important lessons young people can learn from their cultural heritage.

Supporters of this contention argue that the changing world has make old ways of life irrelevant. This is especially the case as technology has hastened cultural and economic upheaval. In the past, an individual’s grandparents might be able to give worthwhile advice related to how to behave at work and manage their relationships. This is now less true than ever before because of the advent of social media apps, dating websites, remote working and the loss of traditional career paths. The growth of the internet has had a further globalising effect that erodes the uniqueness of cultures. For example, recent women’s empowerment movements have occurred simultaneously globally, often in conflict with the traditional values of individual nations.

Nonetheless, tradition serves as an increasingly important guide in a world with few fixed values. As the world has become more secular, religious values have declined but cultural traditions remain intact. A standout example of this would be the strong familial ties in Asian nations such as Japan, Korea, China, and Vietnam. Children in these nations are expected to listen to the advice of their parents, maintain cultural traditions, and behave within certain ethical bounds. Without these customs to guide their behaviour, young people would be at the mercy of the values espoused in popular media. However, by following mores from the past, young people will have a foundation to judge their present and future actions.

In conclusion, despite the decreasing relevance of tradition in the modern world, it still holds an important place as a basis for ethical behaviour. Young people must therefore temper their desire to reform with a skeptical reverence for the past.

1. Many are of the belief that past traditions now hold little future value for young people. 2. In my opinion, there are still important lessons young people can learn from their cultural heritage.

  • Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
  • Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here .

1. Supporters of this contention argue that the changing world has make old ways of life irrelevant. 2. This is especially the case as technology has hastened cultural and economic upheaval. 3. In the past, an individual’s grandparents might be able to give worthwhile advice related to how to behave at work and manage their relationships. 4. This is now less true than ever before because of the advent of social media apps, dating websites, remote working and the loss of traditional career paths. 5. The growth of the internet has had a further globalising effect that erodes the uniqueness of cultures. 6. For example, recent women’s empowerment movements have occurred simultaneously globally, often in conflict with the traditional values of individual nations.

  • Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
  • Explain your main idea.
  • Develop it with specific examples.
  • Keep developing it fully.
  • Stay focused on the same main idea.
  • If you haven’t included an example, add one at the end.

1. Nonetheless, tradition serves as an increasingly important guide in a world with few fixed values. 2. As the world has become more secular, religious values have declined but cultural traditions remain intact. 3. A standout example of this would be the strong familial ties in Asian nations such as Japan, Korea, China, and Vietnam. 4. Children in these nations are expected to listen to the advice of their parents, maintain cultural traditions, and behave within certain ethical bounds. 5. Without these customs to guide their behaviour, young people would be at the mercy of the values espoused in popular media. 6. However, by following mores from the past, young people will have a foundation to judge their present and future actions.

  • Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
  • Explain your new main idea.
  • Include specific details and examples.
  • Continue developing it…
  • as fully as possible!
  • Relate it back to the overall topic.

1. In conclusion, despite the decreasing relevance of tradition in the modern world, it still holds an important place as a basis for ethical behaviour. 2. Young people must therefore temper their desire to reform with a skeptical reverence for the past.

  • Summarise your main ideas.
  • Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here .

What do the words in bold below mean? Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.

Many are of the belief that past traditions now hold little future value for young people. In my opinion, there are still important lessons young people can learn from their cultural heritage .

Supporters of this contention argue that the changing world has make old ways of life irrelevant . This is especially the case as technology has hastened cultural and economic upheaval . In the past, an individual’s grandparents might be able to give worthwhile advice related to how to behave at work and manage their relationships. This is now less true than ever before because of the advent of social media apps , dating websites, remote working and the loss of traditional career paths . The growth of the internet has had a further globalising effect that erodes the uniqueness of cultures. For example, recent women’s empowerment movements have occurred simultaneously globally , often in conflict with the traditional values of individual nations .

Nonetheless , tradition serves as an increasingly important guide in a world with few fixed values . As the world has become more secular , religious values have declined but cultural traditions remain intact . A standout example of this would be the strong familial ties in Asian nations such as Japan, Korea, China, and Vietnam. Children in these nations are expected to listen to the advice of their parents, maintain cultural traditions, and behave within certain ethical bounds . Without these customs to guide their behaviour, young people would be at the mercy of the values espoused in popular media. However, by following mores from the past, young people will have a foundation to judge their present and future actions .

For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:

of the belief think

past traditions customs from the past

hold little future value won’t help later

important lessons meaningful teaching

cultural heritage history and traditions of a people

supporters those in favour of

contention argument

irrelevant no longer important

especially the case in particular true

hastened cultural and economic upheaval sped up the changes in society

worthwhile valuable

manage deal with

This is now less true than ever before now not as much the case

advent beginning

social media apps TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Snap, etc.

remote working working from home

loss of traditional career paths normal jobs going away

growth development

further globalising effect countries becoming more similar

erodes disappears

uniqueness special

recent women’s empowerment movements feminist reforms in recent years

occurred simultaneously globally happened at the same time all over the world

in conflict with fighting

traditional values beliefs from the past

individual nations singular countries

nonetheless regardless of

tradition serves as customs are

increasingly more and more

few fixed values not many set beliefs

secular non-religious

religious values morals from God

remain intact stay alive

standout example good instance

strong familial ties good relationships in families

expected to will likely

maintain keep

behave within certain ethical bounds follow rules

customs traditions

guide someone to follow

at the mercy of vulnerable to

espoused propagated

mores customs

foundation basis

judge form an opinion of

present and future actions right now and later

decreasing relevance becoming less important

important place key area

basis foundation

temper weaken

desire wanting to

reform changes

skeptical reverence wary level of respect

Pronunciation

Practice saying the vocabulary below and use this tip about Google voice search :

ɒv ðə bɪˈliːf   pɑːst trəˈdɪʃənz   həʊld ˈlɪtl ˈfjuːʧə ˈvæljuː   ɪmˈpɔːtənt ˈlɛsnz   ˈkʌlʧərəl ˈhɛrɪtɪʤ səˈpɔːtəz   kənˈtɛnʃən   ɪˈrɛlɪvənt ɪsˈpɛʃəli ðə keɪs   ˈheɪsnd ˈkʌlʧərəl ænd ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ʌpˈhiːvəl ˈwɜːθˈwaɪl   ˈmænɪʤ ðɪs ɪz naʊ lɛs truː ðæn ˈɛvə bɪˈfɔː ˈædvənt   ˈsəʊʃəl ˈmiːdiə æps rɪˈməʊt ˈwɜːkɪŋ   lɒs ɒv trəˈdɪʃənl kəˈrɪə pɑːðz grəʊθ   ˈfɜːðə ˌgləʊb(ə)laɪˈzing ɪˈfɛkt   ɪˈrəʊdz   juːˈniːknəs   ˈriːsnt ˈwɪmɪnz ɪmˈpaʊəmənt ˈmuːvmənts   əˈkɜːd ˌsɪməlˈteɪniəsli ˈgləʊbəli ɪn ˈkɒnflɪkt wɪð   trəˈdɪʃənl ˈvæljuːz   ˌɪndɪˈvɪdjʊəl ˈneɪʃənz ˌnʌnðəˈlɛs trəˈdɪʃən sɜːvz æz   ɪnˈkriːsɪŋli   gaɪd   fjuː fɪkst ˈvæljuːz ˈsɛkjʊlə rɪˈlɪʤəs ˈvæljuːz   rɪˈmeɪn ɪnˈtækt ˈstændaʊt ɪgˈzɑːmpl   strɒŋ ˈfæmɪliel taɪz ɪksˈpɛktɪd tuː   meɪnˈteɪn   bɪˈheɪv wɪˈðɪn ˈsɜːtn ˈɛθɪkəl baʊndz ˈkʌstəmz   gaɪd   æt ðə ˈmɜːsi ɒv   ɪsˈpaʊzd   ˈməʊriːz   faʊnˈdeɪʃən   ˈʤʌʤ   ˈprɛznt ænd ˈfjuːʧər ˈækʃ(ə)nz diːˈkriːsɪŋ ˈrɛlɪvəns   ɪmˈpɔːtənt pleɪs   ˈbeɪsɪs   ˈtɛmpə   dɪˈzaɪə   ˌriːˈfɔːm   ˈskɛptɪkəl ˈrəvərəns  

Vocabulary Practice

I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:

Many are o______________f that p_________________s now h____________________e for young people. In my opinion, there are still i_______________________s young people can learn from their c__________________e .

S________________s of this c____________n argue that the changing world has make old ways of life i________________t . This is e________________e as technology has h__________________________________l . In the past, an individual’s grandparents might be able to give w_____________e advice related to how to behave at work and m___________e their relationships. T____________________________________e because of the a________t of s__________________s , dating websites, r________________g and the l_________________________________s . The a_________t of the internet has had a f______________________________t that e_________s the u__________________s of cultures. For example, r__________________________________s have o_________________________________y , often i_________________h the t______________________s of i_____________________s .

N________________s , t___________________s an i_______________y important g__________e in a world with f___________________s . As the world has become more s_____________r , r________________s have declined but cultural traditions r________________t . A s__________________e of this would be the s______________________s in Asian nations such as Japan, Korea, China, and Vietnam. Children in these nations are e____________o listen to the advice of their parents, m_____________n cultural traditions, and b_________________________s . Without these c________s to g_______e their behaviour, young people would be a________________f the values e____________d in popular media. However, by following m_______s from the past, young people will have a f_____________n to j_______e their p______________________s .

In conclusion, despite the d_________________________e of tradition in the modern world, it still holds an i_____________________e as a b_______s for ethical behaviour. Young people must therefore t_________r their d________e to r__________m with a s______________________e for the past.

Listening Practice

Learn more about this topic in the video below and practice with these activities :

Reading Practice

Read more about this topic and use these ideas to practice :

https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2019/09/america-without-family-god-or-patriotism/597382/

Speaking Practice

Practice with the following speaking questions from the real IELTS speaking exam :

  • Do people in your country often eat together?
  • Why are family meals less common today?
  • Is this a positive or negative development?
  • Are there any holidays in your country centred around food?
  • Are international foods a threat to the traditional culture of your country?

Writing Practice

Practice with the same basic topic below and then check with my sample answer:

Some think the current generation should take steps to protect the environment for the next generation.

IELTS Essay: The Next Generation

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Riddhi

this is all are amazing content keep posting this is very useful

Dave

Thanks for saying so, Riddhi!

Mike

Thanks for such an outstanding essay Dave 🙂

Many are of the opinion that conventional notions passed down by previous generations have become of little use for both the present and future of young people. In my opinion, although certain traditions have become obsolete, the bulk of them are still of paramount importance to the youth. It is true that certain ideas from the past have become irrelevant to today’s society. A good example of this would be the traditional stereotype in Asian countries such as China and Vietnam dictating that women should be solely responsible for household chores and raising children, while men are the only breadwinners in a family. However, this view has been regarded as anachronistic nowadays as women have proven that they are as competent as men in committing to a career path, which partly contributes to the emergence of dual-income families. Clearly, for this case, advice from the elderly seems to serve no useful purpose. Despite the aforementioned argument, I claim that the majority of ideas introduced by the older generations are useful for young people. The truth is that many moral lessons in the past such as showing respect to others, behaving within certain ethical bounds, and honoring values such as honesty or loyalty have stood the test of time. Without that guidance, the youth are likely to be at the mercy of values imposed in popular media. Furthermore, there is an ongoing problem of young individuals increasingly obsessed with the pursuit of wealth over anything else in consumerism society. Traditional ideas are likely to remind those people about the importance of other values in life such as friendship and family. These are reliable testaments to why traditional lessons in the past still benefit young people. In conclusion, although I admit that certain ideas given by the elderly have become old-fashioned, I am strongly convinced that most of them are still useful for both the current and future generations. 

Great work again, Mike!

You should try writing some that are not paraphrased as well!

Girish Mohan Sharma

Hello Dave, Just a small question. I don’t understand the topic statement of first BP. I googled the word ‘contention’ which shows complete disagreement, so can you please clear this confusion. Also, as you said in introduction that you disagree with the question, so why don’t you mention the topic statement which shows what is in your view?

Contention means an opinion – a strong assertion of opinion.

It can also be used like contend – to fight or disagree.

I come back to my view in the 2nd BP, which is the structure I use for all my essays.

Is that clear, Girish?

Thanks for your questions!

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IELTS Writing Task 2 – Topic: CULTURE

ielts writing topics 2019

1.  Some people think that it is important to have a single language as an international official language. Others think that it will make it difficult to identify countries and cause a loss of culture. What are your opinions on this?  

Sample Answer

With the advent of globalization, a common language to facilitate trade and  communication seems inevitable. Some oppose the development of a single language  on the grounds that it may lead to cultural erosion and a loss of local linguistic  knowledge. Yet, I am of the opinion that it is possible to use an official international  language and still retain one’s own language and culture.

Firstly, many countries already use an official language or languages. For example, in  India there are two official languages: Hindi and English. In a country such as India  where there are innumerable languages spoken, there is a need for official languages to  ensure communication between different sections of the population and the different  states. In China, where different dialects are spoken, Mandarin, the official language,  enables people from different provinces to comprehend each other.

Secondly, in an age of rampant globalization there is no doubt that an international  language is inevitability. How is an African businessman going to conduct business in  China when there are such differences between languages? In this sense, not only is an  international language inevitable, but also a necessity for trade, commerce and  economic expansion in the 21st century.

The critics opposing the adoption of an international official language argue that it would  lead to a loss of cultural identity. However, the use of an international official language  doesn’t mean that local languages will die out. For example, English already functions  as a kind of unofficial international language but this doesn’t mean that people solely  converse in English or they neglect their own language. English is used in specific  contexts (trade, business, etc) and native languages are used for everyday instruction.

In brief, as the world becomes smaller the need for an official international language  seems unavoidable. English has already assumed this role although its status is  unofficial. In my view, the use of either an official or unofficial international language is  necessary to facilitate communication in a time of rapid globalization.

 (330 words)

2.  When people move to another country, some of them decide to follow the customs of the new country. Others prefer to keep their own customs. Compare these two choices. Which one do you prefer? Support your answer with specific details.   

People may choose to keep their old traditions from their native country or to accept  new ones. Keeping the old customs will help one to overcome the cultural shock and  the change of the environment. From the other side, accepting the new traditions will  help one to adapt and make new friends with residents. In this essay I will give different  reasons why people decide to follow the customs of the new country or to keep their  own customs.

If one is from the country with strong and old traditions, I think it will be rather difficult for  him to adapt to the new customs and moreover to reject his own. That is why some  people from the same country try to live together and to create their own community  where the old traditions are kept. They can not break the customs that were created by  their ancestors. For example, some nations are restricted in certain kinds of food by  their traditions. So, they do not go to the restaurants unless their traditional food is  served there. Some nations according to their customs have to wear certain types of  cloth because their religion tells them to do so.

From the other side, if one is from the country with traditions similar to ones of the new  country it will be easy for him to adopt and to follow the customs of the new place. He  will not feel much difference. Probably, the most difficult part of his relocation will be to accustom to the new climate.

I think that people of the new country are friendlier when they see that foreigner follows  their customs. I belief that traditions of every country deserve respect, especially, when  one lives there. In summary, I think that every country has its own beauty and if one  wants to find out more about it he will love it.

 (313 words)

3.  Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Modern technology is creating a single world culture. Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion.

Man, through the ages, has undergone many changes from the time when he depicted  a herd of mammoths on the walls of the cave to these days when he can chart with  someone on the other side of the globe. Modern technology is rapidly changing the  world’s living standards that results in creating a single world culture. New technologies  including Internet, television, electronic media, means of transportation, etc has a great  impact on creating a similar culture all around the globe. Bellow I will list my reasons to  support my opinion.

First of all, Internet and e-mail have changed the way people communicate to each  other. Internet brought many benefits. It is a new means of communication, a fast  access to information and news. People communicate with each other, share their  ideas, happiness and difficulties. We have a great opportunity to find out more about  countries and their history.

Second of all, the modern means of transportation allows people to move from one  place to another very quickly. A few centuries ago it was impossible to imagine waking  up in one country and falling asleep in another.

Finally, as a result of all mentioned above the boundaries between countries, their  traditions and customs are erased. Many people migrate during their lives. Some of  them are looking for a better place to live, others want to get new experience and  knowledge or just pleasure. So, many families are created between people from  different countries. Traditions fuse and evolve into other ones or just vanish.

To sup up, modern technology has a great impact on the way people live now. It is  creating a new single world culture where traditions and distances are no longer of that  importance.

 (286 words)

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Sample Answer Band 8+

There is a perspective that asserts that traveling to other places is not necessary to learn about the culture of other people, as information can be accessed through books, documentaries, and the internet. However, this essay will argue that firsthand experiences through travel are vital for gaining a comprehensive understanding of diverse cultures.

Firstly, traveling to other places enables individuals to form personal connections with people from different cultures. Interacting with locals provides a unique insight into their beliefs, traditions, and daily lives that cannot be replicated through other means. By participating in cultural activities, such as attending festivals, trying traditional foods, or engaging in local arts, travelers can gain a more authentic understanding of the culture. For instance, learning about Japan’s traditional tea ceremony from books and documentaries is informative, but participating in one alongside a local host offers a deeper understanding. Travelers can experience the host’s warmth and hospitality, observe their attention to detail, and appreciate the ceremony’s intricacies, which are difficult to capture through written or visual media.

Secondly, traveling to other places helps challenge preconceived notions and stereotypes about different cultures. Exposure to diverse ways of life encourages individuals to reevaluate their beliefs and assumptions, fostering open-mindedness and a more accurate understanding of cultural differences. For example, many westerners may have misconceptions about Middle Eastern or African cultures, which can be dispelled through direct exposure and interaction with people from those regions. In this way, travel serves as a powerful tool for dispelling myths and fostering cultural awareness.

In conclusion, while it is true that information about other cultures can be accessed without traveling, I strongly believe that firsthand experiences through travel are invaluable for fostering a comprehensive understanding of diverse cultures.

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February 01, 2017

Ielts writing task 2: traditions and technology.

Last week I showed you three recent questions and asked which one we should work on next. The first question received the most votes:

It is inevitable that traditional cultures will be lost as technology develops. Technology and traditional cultures are incompatible. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?

Here are some things to consider:

  • What are "traditional cultures"? It might help if we start with some examples. If you can't think of any, search on the Internet and see what you find. Then choose a couple of easy examples (e.g. the first example I found was the Inuit / Eskimo culture).
  • Think about whether traditional cultures are being lost in your country. Are people from traditional societies moving to cities and joining "modern culture", or is technology helping them to keep their cultures alive?
  • Think about the words "inevitable" and "incompatible". These are very strong words! Why can't technology and traditional cultures exist together?
  • Is there a balanced answer here? Are some traditional cultures being lost while others remain strong? Is technology the only thing that destroys traditional cultures, or just part of the problem? Do some cultures simply choose to ingore new technologies?

I think the question is trickier than it first seems, so let's consider the above points carefully before we write or even plan anything!

Feed

The relationship between modern technology and traditional culture has always been a great concern of many. Some people argue that they both cannot go well with each other and I completely agree with the idea. This essay will discuss how technology affects a culture in a bad way.

Firstly, media has played an integral part in damaging the cultures of the world. Advancements in the field of telecommunication have turned the world into a global village. Whatever is available at one corner of the globe can easily be found on the other, which has damaged the uniqueness of any area. This is true for every aspect of life, like the food we eat, the dress we wear, the language we speak. One can see that American culture has become dominant over others, and it is prevailing all over the world. More and more people in Asian countries, for example, are copying the styles of American outfits and street foods in India are widely replaced by KFC and McDonalds. Therefore, media plays a crucial part in making the cultures less distinctive.

Furthermore, while development in technology makes our life easier, it also changed the way we live. The introduction of many appliances like the microwave and electric grills has radically transformed the way of our traditional cooking. People no longer spend time in the kitchen to make food for themselves as they were used to do before. In addition, development in travel and tourism industry has made it affordable for everyone to explore the world and to visit different countries. Every time, when a tourist visits a country, he brings with it his own culture, and it leaves some impression on the local people. For instance, a great number of people in Northern Pakistan started wearing jeans after the development of tourist attraction in that area. Hence, the link between the evolution of technology and cultural damage can be seen.

In conclusion, I totally agree with the statement that while technology brings comfort to our life, it makes the cultures more vague and indistinctive.

Posted by: Samz | February 01, 2017 at 15:49

My answers to Simon's question

01. Traditional cultures has formed by the beliefs and practices held or observed by specific human groups who are living in local environment. These beliefs and practices have been passed down by their ancestors. Examples : farming culture, Bedouin Culture in Middle east.

02. As I observed, traditional cultures are being lost in my country. Beliefs will no longer valid with findings from science and technology. Technology development will improve education, heath and infrastructures etc. and it will bridge the gap between village and city. In other hand it will bring both good and bad things from some other cultures

03. Modernization is inevitable. Technology and traditional cultures are incompatible. Traditional things will replace with technologies. As an example: in farming culture, earlier they used buffaloes in rice farming but now with modern technologies they use machines to do the same.

04. My view is moreless all the traditional cultures being lost with science and technologies. But there are some cultures specially build up with religious influence still remain same as they do believe the things in their religion that things found by technology.

Posted by: Jeff | February 02, 2017 at 04:34

THANK YOU Simon for all the great work you’ve been doing through this blog.

I have a couple of questions for you. Firstly, Can I choose to go with discussing both the views even if the question says only “agree or disagree”? I really find it difficult to argue on one side because often I ran out of ideas for my second paragraph.

I wrote the following introduction for recent examination question so that I can argue both the views.

International sports are contributing to the world peace. Do you agree or disagree?

It is argued that playing sports between nations could aid in maintaining peace. Personally, I witnessed that sports did cause violence in few circumstances notwithstanding their positive motives. Therefore, I disagree with the above statement.

So, in the first paragraph I wrote how sports contributing to peace and in the second paragraph, I explained about how they cause violence in some cases.

Am I doing right? Do you suggest any other strategies which I can adapt?

Secondly, For these types of questions, my teacher insisted me that I should NOT write my opinion in the introduction. For instance, I wrote “Therefore, I disagree with the above statement.” and he says that it needs to be included in the conclusion statement instead of begining. However, I saw few of your essays where you have clearly mentioned your view in the beginning.

Now I’m in dilemma, appreciate if you could clarify.

Sorry for the long queries.

Posted by: Charlie | February 02, 2017 at 12:01

INTRO Many traditional cultures around the world got lost throughout history. There are several reasons why they disappeared. Most researchers in history believe that technology is the main reason of their disappearance. I partly agree with this view. Although some technological developments caused some cultures to disappear. I think there are many ways that technology can help them to survive PARA 1 Technological innovations such as guns destroyed the Indians Transportation systems like ships destroyed 'the silk road' PARA 2 In spite of these, I believe that we could survive these cultures with the help of technology. If there were no Internet, I would not learn much about 'the Indians' or 'the Silk Road' We can make traditional festivals and announce them on the Internet CONC. I believe that people killed these traditional cultures by technology. In my opinion, people would survive them by technology if they wanted to.

Posted by: isil | February 02, 2017 at 12:58

Hi Simon I think that i will divide the above opinions into two small opinions -traditional cultures will be lost as technology develops. -Technology and traditional cultures are incompatible then i write two paragraphs, totally disagree with both of the small opinions. Is that clear and logical enough ? please give me your answer

Posted by: moly | February 02, 2017 at 15:12

1. it's completely okay to look at both sides in an agree/disagree essay. In fact, it's often easier because you have access to more ideas, and you won't run out of ideas (as you mentioned).

2. The introduction you wrote seems like a 'strong opinion' essay. Look at Simon's essays and you will notice that a more 'balanced' essay more clearly introduces both sides.

3. Your teacher is mistaken. The band descriptors state that to reach the 7 level you need a clear position 'throughout the essay'. The reason for this is that IELTS is testing your ability to communicate an idea consistently over a long piece of writing. Put your opinion in the introduction, topic sentences and conclusion.

Posted by: sjm | February 03, 2017 at 07:40

Could anyone suggest me am i write or not? I will write body paragraphs like this BP1 - traditional cultures will be lost as technology develops. BP2 - Technology and traditional cultures are incompatible

Technology the buzz world of today has meliorated the life of human being in myriad ways. Although, technology is sounding the death knell of tradition, it is still not right to believe that they both cannot go hand in hand in some respects. Consider education system as an example; in past era education was imparted among students in a classroom with chalk and talks yet orthodox methodology of education has replaced with smart classes but still traditional subjects like History, Sanskrit, Mathematics or Hindi has been teaching to students in schools. Therefore, it is evident that it is not necessary the conservative culture will be lost with the development of computers or Internet. There is no doubt that technology has made life more convenient than earlier time, but it does not mean that they both cannot go together. In bygone days people cooked food with the assistance of firewood that was such a herculean task. However, in fast pace of life electronic appliances such as electronic gas, microwaves and ovens have made it easy for mankind to cook cuisines quickly with less effort but still people consume traditional foods on the regular basis rather than fast food. Thus, it is clear that traditional culture and technology can go together.

Are these write ideas to write in body paragraph please give me suggest.

Posted by: Payal | February 04, 2017 at 09:51

INTRODUCTION

I THINK IT IS BAD TO BLAME TECHNOLOGY FOR DISAPPEARANCE OF TRADITIONS . THERE ARE MANY FACTORS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO VANISHING OF TRADITIONS AND CULTURES.HOWEVER , TECHNOLOGIES HELP IN SPREADING THE TRADITIONS TO FAR TO WHOLE WORLD

Posted by: JASS | February 04, 2017 at 12:06

can anyone guide where to put the coma or full stop(on the other hand some argue that technology itself is not a factor attributing to environmental crisis rather it can be proven a major part of the solution

Posted by: usman | February 04, 2017 at 23:29

Undoubtedly, there is a special relationship between development technology and cultural tradition. Some people argue that they are not able to survive in the same case, the mainstream culture has been losing because of a tons technology products. I completely disagree with this ideas, this essay will analyse how they are not effecting on each other.

On the one hand, it is cannot be denied that hi-tech stuffs are protecting value culture from the wheel of time. People tend to save their historical moment in order to transmit from generation to generation on the internet, handphone, computer and so on. For example, in Vietnam, traditional weddings have been being filmed to announce on private blogs or even appeared on television. Young generations recognise how to organize a wedding ceremony such as what the bride and bridegroom do. In this case, there is an amount of evidences for why the developed country such as America and England have been keeping their ancient cultures.

On the other hand, the industry of technology is able to exist independently in the modern life. Basically, protecting traditional culture bases on the education system country without known-ledges about technology. For example, there are a number of smartphones have been invented while the traditional information festivals are still releasing more and more on the social media. Apparently, the beauties of culture can not be ruined because of developed technology rapidly, people can be seen their country cultures on the internet easily.

In conclusion, the governments could provide specific measures to balance between these issues in order to gain a harmonious human life.

Posted by: Ryo | February 05, 2017 at 10:29

Thanks so much for your lessons and advices. I find your blog very helpful to improve my English. I am going to take IELTS test in April/May, 2017 and my target is at least 7 for each skill. Hopefully with your help, I can get it. I just wrote the essay and will appreciate much if you can take a look and advise which band it is. Thank you in advance. ---------------------------------------------------------- The development of technology recently has brought numerous advantages which are very helpful for people. There is opinion, however, that the modern technology is destroying traditional cultures because these two factors cannot co-exist. In my opinion, technology only replaces the old practices that are not suitable in modern era, and it is very important to maintain good cultures.

On the one hand, the the development of technology has made the lives of people much easier . Take the invention of mobile phone or internet as an example. These technological gadgets replaced old methods of communication and have helped people connected in an effective and easy ways. With mobile phones and the internet, people do not have to wait for long periods of time to communicate with people in other parts of the world. Another good example is television. Nowadays, people can learn much of what is happening in the world just by watching television.

On the other hand, modern technology can also contribute to the restoration and preservation of traditional cultures. A lot of valuable and unique works of different cultures only can be preserved well by advanced technology. For example, old paintings can remain undamaged in standard rooms with modern equipment. Also, thanks to technology, scientists can restore missing information about old societies and civilisations so that we can have a better understanding about the past.

In conclusion, technology, if used effectively and appropriately, can contribute significantly to preserving and restoring precious traditional cultures.

Posted by: Nguyen Thu Ha | February 05, 2017 at 15:24

Dear Simon,

I have ever read the criteria of band 9 writing task 2 (for public) stating that we have to use cohesion attracting no attention. Meanwhile, when writing task 2, I usually use question in the first sentence of the introductory paragraph. Is it good for achieving band 9?

Warm regards, Royan

Posted by: Royan | February 06, 2017 at 04:16

Dear Simon, I am having problem with my intoduction part.The main idea seems to match with your ideas but the starting part does not have the touch.What would be your suggestion for it? I am giving my test this saturday.So I hope to listen from you very soon. Regards Nischal

Posted by: Nischal | February 06, 2017 at 09:20

Some people argued the Modern technology will destroy the original culture and both are inversely proportional to each other. but i believe that with the technology we can survive our tradition culture.

Posted by: Anand Thakkar | February 06, 2017 at 10:26

As technology develops, some traditional cultures fade because they are substituted by technology, either in the aspect of entertainment or convenience. Some would therefore argue that technology and traditional cultures cannot exist in the same time. In my opinion, the argument is not plausible since in some circumstance, technology can help traditional culture to evolve.

It is undeniable that technology ceases some traditional customs. Some technological innovation increase the mobility of people, so people originally living in the suburbs would move to metropolitan areas and join the modern culture. The obvious case of this phenomenon is the booming of McDonalds and Coca Cola, which indirectly replace the need of traditional cuisine and threat their survival.

On the contrary, there are many cases to pursue that technology improve the quality of traditional culture. Take The Lantern festival for example. Although technological entertainments such as computer games, TV have largely reduced people's desire to light traditional lanterns in this festival, it also enhances the safety standard of lanterns. Nowadays, light sources of traditional lanterns, which were used to be candles, have commonly replaced by more safe materials, for instance LED, bulbs. As a result, fire disasters no longer happen in this reunion festival, and people can at the same time enjoy magnificent lantern indoor.

In sum, it is undeniable that technology threats the existence of some traditional culture, but there are also various opportunities for traditional culture to be renewed and revitalized by technology.

Posted by: yuer | February 07, 2017 at 08:50

Hi Nguyen Thu Ha!

I am also planning to take IELTS in April/May,2017 if you don't mind could we both practice together and share ideas with each other. It would be beneficial for both of us in acquiring desire band scores.

Posted by: Payal | February 12, 2017 at 17:33

It is common today to debate about the influence of technology on traditional culture. This is very apparent in our every day talks and media programs. I disagree that developed technology could lead to disappearance of traditional culture or even effect it negatively. This essay will prove that by analyzing not only the capability of advanced technology to preserve culture but also its ability to globalize it.

Firstly,although of all the technology in the world today, societies' culture are still present and obvious. For example,most western students who study abroad return back to their countries to celebrate with their families during the Christmas holiday by planes or other advanced transportation ways. They don't use some technology like internet and social networks instead going back and celebrate with this cultural day. This example shows that technology did not effect culture negativity but it helps people to preserve their culture heritage.

In addition to this,it can not be refuted that technology has a positive ramification on culture globalization. For instance,internet played a huge role to introduce different culture to different people and communities and make it acceptable to them. This example shows that technology influenced in a positive way on culture. Thus,technology is considered as one of the keys to makes culture more viable ,widely known and accepted among people.

After analyzing the ramifications of developed technology on culture,it is believed that the harmonized life between technology and culture are already present and obvious. It is hoped that this life would continue to encourage a creation of international culture which will definitely promote the global peace

Posted by: Seyfullah | February 13, 2017 at 12:34

Its wonderful to have you to practice English. But how do you like to share or practice English together?

Posted by: Nguyen Thu Ha | February 26, 2017 at 08:36

It is sometimes argued that traditional cultures will disappear due to technological advances. While I agree that some of the traditions are becoming victim of the ever-growing technology, I would argue they can still coexist.

In some circumstances, technological developments result in the gradual disappearance of culture. Calligraphy for example, used to be considered as a highly-valued skill for the literates. However, the case seems no longer true nowadays. Few people will bother to write the Chinese character stroke by stroke because their smart keyboard will correct for them. Similarly, some English native speakers seem to rely so much on the spellcheck feature of their phone that they simply cannot get the words right without Swiftkey(a popular application for English keyboard). Likewise, the use of handwritten letters are rendered obsolete due to the prevailing use of emails. In a word, technology has brought deterioration to traditional culture in varied forms.

Having said that, it does not necessarily mean they are simply incompatible. Both technology and culture have developed over the course of history and whether to employ and make the best use of technology to revive the endangered cultures are in the hands of humans. Some shrewd businessmen who discerned the significance of traditional culture have already embarked on this profitable scheme: They invest on films that are based on themes of Chinese ancient poems and interpret to the world a whole different culture, which went viral on social networks and gained greater popularity as apposed to those well-worn commercials.

In conclusion, I would argue that we should take steps to protect traditional culture by using technology, and they are by no means incompatible.

Hello, Simon, it is my first time posting an article, i wonder if you could give me a rough score, thank you so much!!!

Posted by: Enya | April 13, 2017 at 10:01

There are those who fear that what is termed ‘traditional culture’ will fade away as advancements in technology continue to be made. While it true that these advancements are occurring at such a rapid rate that we may lose interest in our past and get caught up in all that is new and modern, this essay will argue that the loss of traditional culture is not necessarily a consequence of non-stop developments in technology.

One way in which technology has not hindered long-practised traditions is the celebration of different festivals and religious occasions. An example of this is the Muslim celebration of Eid. Celebrated since the dawn of Islam, more than 1400 years ago, Muslims continue to practise the same traditions they did back then, such as giving charity and visiting family members. Technology, however, has facilitated such practices, as Muslims use their smartphones to contact charities and banks to make donations instead of seeking out the poor themselves. They also use social media to contact family members they might otherwise have not had a way to contact and wish them well on this occasion. The same can be said for traditions practised by other faiths and cultures. This means that the spirit behind such celebrations remains, even if not in the same shape and form it used to when they were first celebrated.

Another way in which technology has been of use in keeping traditional culture ‘alive’, so to speak, is how we continue to find ways to preserve elements of the world’s heritage, such as artefacts and other items that were once used by older generations. This is because technology is needed in places such as museums to keep antiques and other items of historical significance intact. Another example of this perseveration is initiatives on the Internet to keep the languages, arts, and sciences of different cultures alive. Because of technology, we are able to travel across time and space and better understand our own and other cultures.

To conclude, I think that claims that technology and tradition cannot exist side by side are easily refuted; in fact, I would argue that technology can and is conducive to the perseveration of traditional culture.

Posted by: Ahmed | September 01, 2017 at 14:07

I'm planning for my IELTS in Sep-2018 but I'm not much perfect in writing task 2. I can't get the idea how to summarize the question into paras even by knowing the view point in which the given question fall. Can you please help me out in writing an essay.

Posted by: Nikesh | August 23, 2018 at 16:55

Mr.Simon, could you help me to orientate about this topic: Some people believe that culture will be ruined if it is used to earn tourism revenue, but others consider that tourism is the only way of protecting a culture. Discuss both sides and give your opinion. Thank you so much.

Posted by: Lisa Duong | May 15, 2019 at 18:06

The comments to this entry are closed.

IMAGES

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COMMENTS

  1. 50 Latest Traditions IELTS Topics - Writing9

    While visiting foreign countries, visitors should take full advantage of learning the culture and traditions of that country. How can they learn about the culture and traditions of the host country? How why do some visitors strive to learn the same and others are not interested at all?

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    IELTS Essay: Traditional Ideas and Young people | How to do IELTS. by Dave | Real Past Tests | 6 Comments. This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of the traditional ideas and how helpful they are for young people in the future from the real IELTS exam.

  3. IELTS Writing Task 2: Topic Cultural traditions

    IELTS Writing Task 2: Topic Cultural traditions. 4262. By IELTS Practice Online. Some people say cultural traditions are destroyed when they are used as money-making attractions aimed at tourists. Others say this is the only way to save such traditions. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

  4. IELTS Writing Task 2 - Topic: CULTURE - IELTS Training Online

    In this essay I will give different reasons why people decide to follow the customs of the new country or to keep their own customs. If one is from the country with strong and old traditions, I think it will be rather difficult for him to adapt to the new customs and moreover to reject his own.

  5. 50 Latest Culture IELTS Topics - Writing9

    In the past, people wore traditional clothes, spoke languages and practiced activities as dictated by their regional culture. These days, the world’s cultures resemble one another quite closely. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?

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  8. Culture and Tradition - Ieltsanswers

    Tradition: the transmission of customs or beliefs from generation to generation. 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞: Culture and tradition play critical roles in shaping societies, providing a sense of identity, continuity, and framework for human behavior and interactions.

  9. IELTS Writing Task 2: 'traditions and technology' essay

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  10. IELTS Writing Task 2: traditions and technology - IELTS Simon

    The relationship between modern technology and traditional culture has always been a great concern of many. Some people argue that they both cannot go well with each other and I completely agree with the idea. This essay will discuss how technology affects a culture in a bad way.