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?
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Step 1
IELTS Examiner Tips for This Topic
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.
Step 2
Recommended Essay Structure (Band 7+ Standard)
1Introduction
Hook the examiner and establish your position immediately.
- Rephrase the question using powerful synonyms — avoid copying words
- State your opinion clearly in the final sentence — leave no doubt
- Keep it tight: 2-3 sentences max. Every word must earn its place.
Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph
It is often argued that...There is a growing debate about whether...In my view, ... because ...2Body Paragraph 1 — Your Strongest Argument
Make your most compelling case with undeniable evidence.
- Start with a powerful topic sentence — state your argument boldly
- Support with concrete evidence: statistics, real-world cases, or expert research
- Explain exactly HOW your evidence proves your point — connect the dots for the examiner
Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph
The primary reason I hold this view is that...This is clearly illustrated by...For instance, in many countries...3Body Paragraph 2 — Supporting Argument
Strengthen your position with a complementary perspective.
- Choose a different angle — if paragraph 1 was economic, try social, environmental, or ethical
- Use fresh evidence — avoid repeating the same examples or reasoning
- Explicitly link back to your thesis — show how this strengthens your overall position
Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph
Furthermore, it is worth considering that...Another compelling argument is that...This is further supported by the fact that...4Conclusion
Leave a lasting impression with a confident, memorable ending.
- Never introduce new ideas — this is your final summary
- Restate your position using stronger vocabulary than the introduction
- Keep it powerful: 2 sentences max. End with authority.
Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph
In conclusion, I firmly believe that...To sum up, the evidence clearly suggests that...Step 3
High-Scoring Vocabulary & Collocations
Step 4
Academic Phrases for This Essay Type
It is widely acknowledged thatThere is compelling evidence to suggestThis phenomenon can be attributed toA growing body of research indicatesThe implications of this are far-reachingThis raises important questions aboutFrom a broader perspectiveIt would be short-sighted to ignoreAddition
MoreoverFurthermoreIn additionWhat is moreContrast
HoweverNeverthelessOn the other handConverselyCause / Effect
ConsequentlyAs a resultThereforeThis leads toExample
For instanceTo illustrateA case in point isSuch asConcession
AlthoughWhile it is true thatDespiteAdmittedlyStep 5
Grammar Patterns for Band 7+
Complex sentence with concession
Although some argue that technology isolates people, the evidence suggests it strengthens connections.
Shows advanced grammatical control. Start with 'Although/While' + opposing view, then state your position — demonstrates nuanced thinking.
Conditional (Type 2)
If governments invested more in public transport, traffic congestion would decrease significantly.
Perfect for hypothetical scenarios and solutions. Structure: 'If + past simple, would + infinitive' — shows flexibility and imagination.
Passive for academic tone
It is often argued that education should be free. However, this view overlooks the practical challenges.
Academic writing favors passive constructions. 'It is + past participle + that' creates authoritative, objective tone.
Relative clause
Students who study abroad, which is becoming increasingly common, tend to develop greater independence.
Adds sophistication without complexity. Use 'who' for people, 'which' for things, 'that' for either.
Noun phrase for density
The rapid expansion of urban areas has led to increased pollution levels.
Packs more information into fewer words. 'The implementation of effective policies' vs 'policies are implemented effectively' — boosts Lexical Resource score.
Step 6
Band 9 Model Answer (Fully Marked)
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Download Official IELTS Answer Sheet (PDF)More IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics in This Category
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In many countries, the amount of crime is increasing. What do you think are the main causes of crime? How can we deal with those causes?
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