Globalization and Its Impact on Cultural Identity - TOEFL Writing for Academic Discussion

The TOEFL Writing section evaluates your ability to produce academic-level English essays. It comprises two distinct tasks: Integrated Writing and Academic Discussion.

In the Academic Discussion, a professor would give a lecture on a certain topic after which you'll need to evaluate the information and engage in a discussion. Following that, you'll have to express your opinions and present relevant evidence to support the reasons and ideas mentioned.

Practicing on sample tests designed according to the Academic Discussion format is the most effective way to prepare for this section of the exam. Let's begin your practice with our TOEFL Academic Discussion sample test on "Globalisation and Its Impact on Cultural Identity".

Writing Instructions

• You will read a discussion related to an academic topic in class where your classmates have written their opinions on the said topic.
• You have 10 minutes to prepare and write your personal opinion on the academic topic.
• Try to answer the question based on the discussion. You can also take ideas from the opinions posted by your classmates.
• There is no maximum word limit. However, an effective response should be a minimum of 100 words.
• Your response will be judged on the quality and clarity of your writing with well-supported reasons.

Instructions: Your professor is teaching a class on environmental science. Write a post responding to the professor's question. In your response, you should -

1. express and support your personal opinion,
2. make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.

Professor: In our next class, we will explore the effects of globalisation on cultural identity. Globalisation has led to increased interaction and combining among people worldwide, but it has also raised concerns about the loss of local cultures. What do you think is the most important impact of globalisation on cultural identity?

Maria: I believe that the most important impact of globalisation on cultural identity is the mixing of cultures. As global brands, media, and lifestyles spread, local traditions and customs are often dominated. For example, fast food chains like McDonald's and Starbucks are found in almost every country. This can lead to a decline in traditional local foods and dining practices. This cultural mixing can result in a loss of unique cultural identities.

David: Although Maria makes a valid point, I think the most important impact of globalization on cultural identity is the chance for cultural exchange and improvement. Globalisation allows people to experience and appreciate different cultures. This leads to a more diverse and inclusive world. For instance, the popularity of international films, music, and cuisine has introduced people to new cultural experiences. They might not have encountered these otherwise. This exchange can encourage shared understanding and respect among different cultures.

Wait! Let's learn more about the TOEFL Exam Pattern and Syllabus before checking out the sample answers to the Academic Discussion Writing task!

Sample Response for the Academic Discussion Writing Task on - Globalisation and Its Impact on Cultural Identity

We’ve included two sample responses for the Writing Academic Discussion Task—one illustrating a high-level response and the other a mid-level response. Reviewing these examples will help you understand the scoring criteria for each level and enhance your writing skills as a result.

High-level Response

While both Maria and David present compelling arguments, I believe the most important impact of globalisation on cultural identity is the dual nature of cultural homogenization and diversification. On one hand, globalization can lead to the erosion of local cultures as global brands and media dominate, as Maria pointed out. This can result in the loss of unique cultural practices and traditions, which are essential to a community's identity.

On the other hand, globalisation also facilitates cultural exchange and enrichment, as David mentioned. People are exposed to a variety of cultural experiences that they might not have encountered otherwise. This can lead to a more inclusive and diverse society where different cultures are appreciated and respected. However, the challenge lies in finding a balance between preserving local cultures and embracing global influences. By promoting cultural awareness and education, we can ensure that globalisation enriches rather than diminishes our cultural identities.

Rater’s Comment

This response merits a high score due to its clear and well-structured argument. The student effectively synthesizes the points made by Maria and David, presenting a balanced view that acknowledges both the risks and benefits of globalization on cultural identity. The response is logically organized, with each paragraph focusing on a specific aspect of the discussion. The first paragraph aligns with Maria's concerns about cultural homogenization, while the second paragraph builds on David's point about cultural exchange and enrichment. The language is formal and appropriate for an academic discussion, and the response is free from grammatical errors. Overall, the student demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the topic and contributes meaningfully to the discussion.

Mid-level Response

I think the most important impact of globalization on cultural identity is both good and bad. Like Maria said, globalization can lead to the loss of local cultures. For example, traditional foods and customs might disappear because of global brands. This can make cultures less unique.

But, as David mentioned, globalization also allows for cultural exchange. People can learn about and appreciate different cultures. This can make the world more diverse and inclusive. However, we need to find a way to balance these effects. We should try to keep our local cultures while also enjoying the benefits of globalization.

Rater’s Comment

This response is adequate but lacks the depth and clarity of a higher-scoring response. The student addresses both the negative and positive impacts of globalization on cultural identity, aligning with points made by Maria and David. However, the argument is not as well-developed or nuanced. The response contains some grammatical errors, such as "both good and bad" instead of "both positive and negative," and "make cultures less unique" instead of "diminish the uniqueness of cultures." Additionally, the language is somewhat informal for an academic discussion, with phrases like "try to keep our local cultures" and "enjoying the benefits of globalization." While the student makes a valid contribution to the discussion, the response could benefit from more detailed reasoning and a more formal tone.

Strategies for Taking the Academic Discussion Writing Task on - Globalisation and Its Impact on Cultural Identity

Now it's time to dive into the expert tips we've shared and put them into practice with TOEFL Writing mock tests. Check out the strategies below for approaching an academic discussion task.

• Carefully read the professor's questions and responses from other students. Identify key arguments presented on both sides of the debate.

• A well-rounded response addresses the opposing viewpoint. While supporting your own position, briefly explain why the drawbacks or opposing side may still be valid but less significant.

• Acknowledge potential drawbacks to your position and strengthen your argument with relevant examples.

• Structure your response clearly with an introduction, body paragraphs addressing both sides and a conclusion that summarizes your argument.

Feeling confident after exploring the sample response and writing strategies? Put your knowledge into practice! All the best!

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