This is a practice question for IELTS Writing Task 2.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write at least 250 words.
Write about the following topic
In an increasingly globalized world, many minority languages are at risk of extinction. Some people argue that governments should invest resources in preserving these languages, while others believe that this effort is unnecessary and that resources should be focused on promoting a common language for better communication.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Sample answer outline
Introduction: Present the topic and state your position
Main body paragraph 1: Discuss arguments for preserving minority languages
Main body paragraph 2: Explore arguments for focusing on a common language
Main body paragraph 3: Provide your own opinion and potential balanced approach
Conclusion: Summarize main points and restate your position
Model answer (Band 8 style)
Write your own answer first, then compare structure and vocabulary. Task 2 · 276 words.
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Of the roughly seven thousand languages spoken today, many are expected to disappear within this century. Some people believe governments should invest in preserving minority languages, while others feel resources should be used to promote a common language. In my opinion, governments should support both, but protecting endangered languages is a responsibility they should not ignore.
Those who favour a common language argue that it brings practical benefits. A shared national or international language allows people to communicate across regions, access education and compete in the job market. Spending limited public money on languages with only a few hundred speakers may seem inefficient when many citizens still need help with basic literacy or English skills. From this perspective, focusing on widely spoken languages maximises opportunities.
On the other hand, a language is much more than a tool for communication. It carries a community’s history, stories, knowledge of local plants and animals, and unique ways of understanding the world. When a language dies, this knowledge often disappears with it. For minority communities, speaking their own language is also closely linked to identity and self-esteem; children who are taught in their mother tongue in the early years often perform better at school. Preservation does not need to be expensive: recording elderly speakers, supporting bilingual schools and funding local media can make a significant difference.
I believe these goals are compatible. People can be bilingual, learning a common language for wider opportunities while maintaining their heritage language at home and in their community.
In conclusion, promoting a common language is important, but governments should also invest in preserving minority languages, as they represent irreplaceable cultural and intellectual heritage.
Task Response
Both views are explored and the writer argues that the goals are compatible, giving a clear, well-justified opinion.
Coherence & Cohesion
Clear structure with an engaging statistic in the introduction and effective linking between ideas.
Lexical Resource
Precise vocabulary: endangered languages, mother tongue, bilingual, heritage language, irreplaceable.
Grammatical Range
Relative clauses, passives, gerunds and time clauses (“When a language dies…”) used accurately.
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Check my writing freeEvaluation criteria
Coherence and Cohesion
Grammatical Range and Accuracy