IELTS Writing Task 2/ Essay Topics with sample answer.
IELTS Essay # 84 - A single language as an international official language
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IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic.
Some people think that it is important to have a single language as the international official language. Others think that it will make it difficult to identify countries and would cause a loss of cultural identity of countries.
Which viewpoint do you agree with?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
You should write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1:
In today's interconnected world, communication between people of different cultures and languages has become increasingly important. However, there is debate over whether or not there should be a single international official language. While some argue that having a single language would facilitate communication and enhance globalization, others believe that it would lead to a loss of cultural identity and make it difficult to identify countries. I agree with the latter viewpoint.
Those who advocate for a single international language argue that it would make communication easier and more efficient, leading to greater globalization and economic growth. This would be particularly true for international business and trade. Additionally, it would eliminate the need for translation services and language barriers, which would in turn reduce costs and time. Furthermore, it would promote understanding and mutual respect between different cultures, as people would be able to communicate and exchange ideas more freely.
On the other hand, others argue that having a single international language would lead to a loss of cultural identity and diversity. Language is not just a means of communication but also a key component of culture and identity. If a single language were to dominate, it would suppress the unique identities and cultural traditions of different countries. Furthermore, it could potentially lead to linguistic discrimination and inequality, as those who do not speak the international language would be at a disadvantage in terms of job opportunities and access to information.
In my opinion, while having a single international language would facilitate communication and globalization, it is more important to preserve the unique cultural identities of different countries. A country's language is deeply intertwined with its culture, history, and traditions, and if we use a single international language everywhere, on the global stage, many cultural aspects would disappear.
All things considered, we do not need a single international language to dominate the world as without language diversity, the world would be a less interesting and vibrant place. Therefore, instead of promoting a single international language, we should encourage the learning and preservation of different languages and cultures.
Model Answer 2:
With the advent of globalisation, 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 multiple official languages including Hindi and English. In a country such as India where a myriad of languages are 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 globalisation, there is no doubt that an international language is inevitable. Otherwise, how is an African businessman going to conduct a business meeting in China when there are such differences between their languages? This is why, not only is an international language inevitable but also a necessity for trade, commerce and economic expansion in modern times.
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 does not mean that local languages will die out. For example, English already functions as a kind of unofficial international language but this does not 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 globalisation.
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