In many countries, people now wear western-style clothes such as suits and jeans rather than traditional clothing. Why is this? Is this a positive or negative development?

To achieve a high score, you must explicitly address both parts of the question. Dedicate one body paragraph to explaining the reasons why people wear Western-style clothes and another distinct body paragraph to evaluating whether this is a positive or negative development, ensuring your stance is clear.

When discussing 'why,' consider the pervasive influence of globalization, media (e.g., Hollywood, K-pop), and the practical advantages of Western clothing in modern workplaces. For the 'positive/negative' aspect, you could argue it's negative due to cultural erosion and loss of traditional craftsmanship, or positive for promoting a sense of global identity and offering greater comfort and versatility for individuals in various socio-economic contexts.

A common mistake on this question is making sweeping generalizations without nuance. Avoid stating that traditional clothing has 'completely disappeared' or that the trend is 'entirely negative.' Instead, acknowledge that traditional attire often coexists with Western styles, or that the impact can be mixed, using phrases like 'in many contexts' or 'it could be argued that this presents a dual impact.'

For this two-part essay, ensure a clear transition between addressing the causes and evaluating the impact. Use a strong linking phrase at the start of your second main body paragraph, such as 'Turning to the implications of this widespread adoption,' or 'While the reasons for this shift are multifaceted, its impact on societies warrants careful consideration.'

Examiners look for a nuanced discussion that avoids simplistic answers. A band 8-9 response will demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of the complex interplay between globalization, cultural identity, and individual choice, supported by well-developed arguments and precise, academic vocabulary, rather than just listing reasons and opinions.