Topic and sample essay for IELTS Writing Task 2: Customs and behaviors

II. Suggestions for solving and outlining IELTS Writing Task 2: Customs and behaviors

1. Examining the exam question

According to analysis by Mr. Nhật Phạm - Marking Leader at Mytour, IELTS Writing Task 2: Customs and behaviors is RELATIVELY CHALLENGING for candidates. Test takers will encounter some challenges in finding ideas because the way the question is expressed can be confusing. Therefore, it is important to be aware of pitfalls to avoid if aiming for a high score, such as turning the topic into a comparison of advantages & disadvantages of traditional customs and behaviors in the modern world. These are common pitfalls that can lead to score deductions for this topic.

2. Detailed outline

Refer to the outline of IELTS Writing Task 2: Customs and behaviors for effective IELTS Writing practice at home!

III. Sample of IELTS Writing Task 2 Customs and behaviors

Here is a sample of IELTS Writing Task 2: Customs and behaviors compiled by Mr. Nhật Phạm - Marking Leader at Mytour. Consult it to practice effectively for IELTS Writing at home!

The world is ever-changing, and sometimes its development conflicts with traditional practices and customs. While some argue for their preservation, I oppose this view because many customs are irrelevant and impractical in modern life. Thus, they need not be upheld.

The idea of steadfastly adhering to established norms seems reasonable to a certain extent. This is primarily based on the belief that customs and traditional ways of life have been shaped by generations of experience. Consequently, they essentially serve as a guide for maintaining societal norms. For instance, the extensive use of honorifics in the Japanese language contributes to the politeness and consideration of the Japanese people. Moreover, traditional customs foster unity in a rapidly changing world. Many cultures continue to honor their heritage through rituals like weddings and funerals, attracting numerous participants due to the sense of community they provide.

However, several behaviors are largely irrelevant in contemporary society. Certain practices carry significant risks, such as the consumption of human flesh among some tribes or consanguineous marriages in certain cultures. The former is unhygienic and promotes the spread of pathogens, while the latter results in genetic degradation and various mental disorders. Additionally, some customs should be completely abandoned due to their barbarity. Honor killings, for example, involve an elder family member killing another, typically a female, to protect the family’s reputation. Given these points, not all traditions deserve preservation.

In conclusion, while arguments exist for their preservation, customs and traditional practices that are incompatible with modern life are best eliminated or forgotten. It remains crucial to discern which are beneficial and which are not. 

Vocabulary used in the sample IELTS Writing Task 2 Customs and behaviours: 

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  • Progress (n.): sự tiến bộ
  • Come into conflict with sth (v.): xung đột với điều gì đó
  • Cling on to sth (v.): bám chặt lấy điều gì đó
  • Refine sth (v.): tôi luyện
  • Virtually (adv.): gần như
  • Guideline (n.): hướng dẫn
  • Uphold sth (v.): giữ vững điều gì đó
  • Honorific (n.): kính ngữ
  • Solidarity (n.): tình đoàn kết
  • Ritual (n.): nghi lễ
  • Hardly (adv.): gần như không
  • Flesh (n.): thịt
  • Deceased (adj.): đã từ trần
  • Inbreeding (n.): giao phối cận huyết
  • Unsanitary (adj.): mất vệ sinh
  • Pathogen (n.): mầm bệnh
  • Degenerate (adj.): thoái hóa
  • Genetic quality (n.): chất lượng gen
  • Barbarism (n.): sự tàn bạo
  • Tarnish sth (v.): làm ô uế điều gì đó
  • Abolish sth (v.): bãi bỏ điều gì đó

Above is the most comprehensive sample of IELTS Writing Task 2: Customs and behaviours. Best wishes for effective IELTS Writing practice at home and achieving a high band score in the upcoming real exam!