It is often argued by many that historical objects should be brought back to their country of origin. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Sample Response
The repatriation of historical artefacts to their country of origin raises important ethical and cultural questionsis a topic that raises important ethical and cultural considerations. Many people support returning such objectsMany express their opinion in favour of the return of such objects, and I firmly agree becauseI firmly agree with this opinion as I believe that returning these items to their countries of originrestoring these items to their rightful place is a crucial step in preserving cultural heritage and fostering international understanding.
FirstFirst and foremost, returning historical artefacts to their country of origin supports cultural identity and demonstrates respectis a matter of cultural identity and respect. Many artefacts hold deep significance forto their country of origin, representing the country's history, traditions, and cultural narrativesrepresenting their history, traditions, and cultural narratives. These items often play a central role in shaping a nation's identity and can contribute to a stronger sense of unity among its people. For instance, the Elgin Marbles, removed from the Parthenon in Athens and housed in the British Museum, symbolise Greek heritageare symbols of Greek heritage, and their repatriation would acknowledgesignify the acknowledgement of Greece's historical legacy.
Furthermore, repatriation can facilitate greater international cooperation and understanding. By returning artefacts, countries demonstrate respect for each other's history and cultural values, fostering goodwill and collaboration. This approach contrasts with the perception of colonialism and exploitation that may arise when valuable cultural items are retained by foreign institutions. The restitution of artefacts can help build bridges between nations and contribute to cultural diplomacy, promoting mutual respect and dialogue.
In conclusion, the repatriation of historical artefacts to their country of origin is a matter of cultural preservation, identity, and international harmony. The return of these items acknowledges their cultural significance and fosters a sense of unity among people. Additionally, it promotes cross-cultural understanding and collaboration between nations. As such, the practice of returning historical artefacts is not only a matter of ethical responsibility but also a means to strengthen global cultural connections.
Why this response received Band 8.5
The essay maintains a fully consistent position and develops two distinct, relevant lines of reasoning: cultural identity is supported by a precise Elgin Marbles example, while restitution is linked coherently to diplomacy and post-colonial respect. Its only notable limitation is that the cooperation argument remains more abstract than the first; strengthen it with a concrete restitution case or briefly address a practical objection such as preservation capacity or disputed ownership.
IELTS Writing Criteria Scores
Task Response
The response directly answers the extent question with a firm position and develops two well-supported arguments concerning cultural identity and international relations.
Deepen the second argument with a specific example or briefly acknowledge and rebut a practical complication surrounding ownership or conservation.
Coherence and Cohesion
Paragraphing, topic sentences, referencing and transitions produce a highly logical progression from position through two distinct reasons to a synthesised conclusion.
Reduce minor repetition in the conclusion by combining its restatement of identity, unity, understanding and collaboration into a sharper final synthesis.
Lexical Resource
Vocabulary is wide, precise and consistently appropriate, with assured use of terms such as repatriation, restitution, cultural diplomacy and historical legacy.
For further refinement, vary repeated uses of artefacts and cultural while preserving the essay’s exact topic terminology.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy
A wide range of complex structures is used accurately and flexibly, with only very minor lapses in reference or phrasing.
Tighten plural reference in phrases such as artefacts and their country of origin, and keep each pronoun’s antecedent unmistakable.
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IELTS Writing Task 2
It is often argued by many that historical objects should be brought back to their country of origin. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Your response
Write the task yourself, then compare your choices with the annotated response.