Essay plan: opinion (agree or disagree)

A real IELTS Writing Task 2 question with the paragraph plan that fits it. Aim for 250 to 290 words in 40 minutes.

The question

As the world becomes more interconnected, many people are increasingly concerned about the rise of nationalism in various countries. What are the main causes of this trend, and what impact does it have on global cooperation? Discuss and provide your own opinion.

Your 4-paragraph plan

  1. Introduction (40-50 words). Paraphrase the statement and give your clear opinion in one sentence.
  2. Body paragraph 1 (80-100 words). First reason you hold this view, with one specific example.
  3. Body paragraph 2 (80-100 words). Second reason, or address the strongest point on the other side and explain why your view still holds.
  4. Conclusion (40-50 words). Restate your opinion in fresh words and summarise your two reasons.

The trap in this question type

Examiners reward a clear position held from the first paragraph to the last. Do not sit on the fence, and do not switch sides halfway.

Model answer for this question

Written for this exact question in the official format. Read it once for ideas, then write your own before comparing.

In recent years, the rise of nationalism has become a prominent concern in many countries, creating tension in an increasingly interconnected world. This trend can be attributed to several factors, including economic instability and cultural identity crises. The repercussions of nationalism are far-reaching, affecting not only local politics but also international cooperation. One significant cause of rising nationalism is economic uncertainty. Many nations have experienced financial crises, rising unemployment, and stagnant wages, leading citizens to seek solace in national identity. For instance, the 2008 global financial crisis led to a backlash against globalization, with many people believing that foreign competition harmed domestic job markets. As a result, political movements advocating for isolationist policies, such as Brexit in the United Kingdom, gained traction. These movements emphasize prioritizing national over global interests, which can lead to a fragmented international community. Another contributing factor is the erosion of cultural identity due to globalization. As cultures merge and blend, many individuals feel a sense of loss regarding their unique heritage. This sentiment can lead to an extreme form of nationalism, where individuals view their culture as superior to others. For example, the rise of nationalist parties in countries like Hungary and Poland highlights a desire to preserve traditional values against perceived foreign influence. Such movements often promote divisiveness rather than inclusivity, hindering collaborative efforts on global issues like climate change and migration. In conclusion, the rise of nationalism is largely driven by economic instability and a perceived threat to cultural identity. While it is natural for people to seek refuge in their national identity during tumultuous times, this trend poses significant challenges to global cooperation. To address pressing global concerns, a balance must be struck between local identity and international solidarity, fostering a world where cooperation prevails over division.

Why this answer scores

  1. The essay clearly identifies economic instability and cultural identity crises as causes of nationalism, providing specific examples like Brexit and the situations in Hungary and Poland.
  2. Concrete examples are used effectively, demonstrating how economic factors and cultural concerns lead to a rise in nationalist sentiment and its impact on global cooperation.
  3. The conclusion succinctly summarizes the main points while reinforcing the importance of balancing national pride with international collaboration, which contributes to the coherence and depth of the argument.

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