IELTS Writing Task 2 essay with model answer

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic

The development o f tourism contributed to English becoming the most prominent language in the world. Some people think this will lead to English becoming the only language to be spoken globally. What are the advantages and disadvantages to having one language in the world?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Answer:

The growth of the travel industry resulted in English becoming the most popular language in the world. This phenomenon has caused a concern that English may become the sole language spoken internationally. There are various pros and cons associated with using a single  language globally.

On the one hand, there are certain drawbacks of using the same language. Firstly, one problem with using a single language worldwide is the erosion of other languages and their associated cultures. Language and culture are inextricably linked, with unique words in every language to identify cultural artefacts and ideas of a culture. When one language dominates the world, it means that the culture associated with that language prevails at the expense of other cultures. For instance, the Wutuha language of Taiwan’s indigenous people contains  clues about their ancient ways of life but little is known about it today  due to the colonisation of their language and culture by Japanese and Chinese settlers.  

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On the other hand, there are certain benefits of using the same language across the world. First off, using a single language worldwide promotes understanding and economic cooperation amongst nations. Sharing the same language facilitates communication of ideas, values and beliefs , which results in less misunderstandings and allows  countries to see eye to eye on most of the  issues. At the same time, it becomes easier to discuss terms of trade and trade negotiations when a single language is used worldwide , as there is no need for translators to become the middlemen between countries. Thus, using a global language improves communication and results in smoother trade discussions and increases mutual understanding.

Clearly, there are benefits and issues arising from using a global language. However, I believe that the disadvantages outweigh advantages simply because the threat of losing unique languages and their associated culture is greater than the benefits  of having smoother communication and trade between nations.

Total Words: 283

Task Achievement: 8

Coherence & Cohesion: 8

Lexical resources: 8

Grammar: 8

Overall Score: Band 8

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