This is my IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of city planning and zoning.
IELTS Essay: Supporting Artists
Some believe that the government should support artists like musicians, painters, and poets, while others argue that this is a misuse of funds.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion
Some argue that government support for artists is vital for cultural and artistic development, while others believe that it constitutes a misuse of public funds. In my opinion, allocating resources for creatively-minded individuals is justifiable.
On the one hand, opponents of government support for the arts contend that this money could be better spent elsewhere, particularly on more pressing social issues such as healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation. Critics make the point that the arts, while valuable, are a luxury that should not take precedence over basic public services. For example, during times of economic hardship, when governments are faced with budget deficits, many believe that funding for arts programs should be reduced or eliminated to prioritize more immediate needs. This is evident in countries like Greece, where austerity measures have forced significant cuts to public services. These critics argue artists should seek funding through private means or market-based initiatives, such as sponsorships or crowdfunding, rather than straining taxpayers.
On the other hand, those in favor of government support for artists argue that the arts are an essential part of society’s cultural heritage and identity. Without funding, many artists would struggle to create their work, which could lead to a decline in cultural production. For instance, state funding has been crucial for the preservation and development of various art forms. In the United Kingdom, the National Lottery Fund allocates money to arts projects, helping to support everything from local theatre productions to international art exhibitions. These investments can stimulate creativity, enrich society, and attract tourists. In fact, art often generates substantial revenue through tourism, as visitors flock to cities known for their cultural institutions and festivals. Therefore, government funding is a means to promote national pride and economic growth.
In conclusion, while both sides present valid arguments, I believe that government support for artists is crucial for the long-term cultural and economic health of society, provided that it is managed prudently and in conjunction with other societal priorities. A well-balanced allocation of funds can ensure that both the arts and essential public services are adequately supported.
Analysis
1. Some argue that government support for artists is vital for cultural and artistic development, while others believe that it constitutes a misuse of public funds. 2. In my opinion, allocating resources for creatively-minded individuals is justifiable.
1. On the one hand, opponents of government support for the arts contend that this money could be better spent elsewhere, particularly on more pressing social issues such as healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation. 2. Critics make the point that the arts, while valuable, are a luxury that should not take precedence over basic public services. 3. For example, during times of economic hardship, when governments are faced with budget deficits, many believe that funding for arts programs should be reduced or eliminated to prioritize more immediate needs. 4. This is evident in countries like Greece, where austerity measures have forced significant cuts to public services. 5. These critics argue artists should seek funding through private means or market-based initiatives, such as sponsorships or crowdfunding, rather than straining taxpayers.
1. On the other hand, those in favor of government support for artists argue that the arts are an essential part of society’s cultural heritage and identity. 2. Without funding, many artists would struggle to create their work, which could lead to a decline in cultural production. 3. For instance, state funding has been crucial for the preservation and development of various art forms. 4. In the United Kingdom, the National Lottery Fund allocates money to arts projects, helping to support everything from local theatre productions to international art exhibitions. 5. These investments can stimulate creativity, enrich society, and attract tourists. 6. In fact, art often generates substantial revenue through tourism, as visitors flock to cities known for their cultural institutions and festivals. 7. Therefore, government funding is a means to promote national pride and economic growth.
- Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
- Explain your new main idea.
- Include specific details and examples.
- Add as much information as you can and make sure it links logically.
- This essay is a bit long – aim for about 275 words.
- This paragraph can be longer since I agree with this side.
- State a final conclusion.
1. In conclusion, while both sides present valid arguments, I believe that government support for artists is crucial for the long-term cultural and economic health of society, provided that it is managed prudently and in conjunction with other societal priorities. 2. A well-balanced allocation of funds can ensure that both the arts and essential public services are adequately supported.
- Summarise your main ideas.
- Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean? Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
Some argue that government support for artists is vital for cultural and artistic development, while others believe that it constitutes a misuse of public funds. In my opinion, allocating resources for creatively-minded individuals is justifiable.
On the one hand, opponents of government support for the arts contend that this money could be better spent elsewhere, particularly on more pressing social issues such as healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation. Critics make the point that the arts, while valuable, are a luxury that should not take precedence over basic public services. For example, during times of economic hardship, when governments are faced with budget deficits, many believe that funding for arts programs should be reduced or eliminated to prioritize more immediate needs. This is evident in countries like Greece, where austerity measures have forced significant cuts to public services. These critics argue artists should seek funding through private means or market-based initiatives, such as sponsorships or crowdfunding, rather than straining taxpayers.
On the other hand, those in favor of government support for artists argue that the arts are an essential part of society’s cultural heritage and identity. Without funding, many artists would struggle to create their work, which could lead to a decline in cultural production. For instance, state funding has been crucial for the preservation and development of various art forms. In the United Kingdom, the National Lottery Fund allocates money to arts projects, helping to support everything from local theatre productions to international art exhibitions. These investments can stimulate creativity, enrich society, and attract tourists. In fact, art often generates substantial revenue through tourism, as visitors flock to cities known for their cultural institutions and festivals. Therefore, government funding is a means to promote national pride and economic growth.
In conclusion, while both sides present valid arguments, I believe that government support for artists is crucial for the long-term cultural and economic health of society, provided that it is managed prudently and in conjunction with other societal priorities. A well-balanced allocation of funds can ensure that both the arts and essential public services are adequately supported.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
Government support
State assistance
Vital
Crucial
Cultural and artistic development
Advancement of culture and the arts
Constitutes
Represents
Misuse of public funds
Improper allocation of taxpayer money
Allocating resources for creatively-minded individuals
Distributing funds to support artistic talents
Justifiable
Defensible
Opponents of
Critics of
Contend
Argue
Better spent elsewhere
Put to better use in other areas
Particularly on more pressing social issues
Especially on urgent societal concerns
Healthcare
Medical services
Poverty alleviation
Reducing financial hardship
Critics make the point
Opponents argue
Valuable
Important
Luxury
Non-essential indulgence
Take precedence over basic public services
Be prioritized over fundamental community needs
During times of economic hardship
In periods of financial strain
Faced with budget deficits
Dealing with financial shortfalls
Funding for arts programs should be reduced or eliminated
Support for artistic initiatives should be cut back or discontinued
Prioritize more immediate needs
Focus on addressing urgent necessities
This is evident in
This is demonstrated by
Austerity measures
Economic cutbacks
Forced significant cuts to public services
Led to major reductions in essential services
Seek funding through private means or market-based initiatives
Rely on private investments or commercial opportunities
Sponsorships
Corporate funding
Crowdfunding
Community-based fundraising
Rather than straining taxpayers
Instead of burdening citizens financially
Those in favor of
Supporters of
An essential part of
A fundamental component of
Cultural heritage and identity
Traditions and collective identity
Without funding
In the absence of financial support
Struggle to create their work
Face challenges in producing art
Decline in cultural production
Reduction in creative output
Crucial
Essential
Preservation
Protection
Various art forms
Diverse creative expressions
Allocates money to arts projects
Designates funds for artistic endeavors
Local theatre productions
Community stage performances
International art exhibitions
Global showcases of artwork
Investments
Funding initiatives
Stimulate creativity
Encourage innovation
Enrich society
Enhance communal well-being
Attract tourists
Draw visitors
Generates substantial revenue
Produces significant income
Visitors flock to cities known for their cultural institutions and festivals
Tourists gather in areas celebrated for their artistic attractions and events
Government funding is a means to promote national pride and economic growth
Public financing fosters patriotism and boosts the economy
Present valid arguments
Offer reasonable points
Long-term cultural and economic health of society
Sustained well-being of culture and economy
Provided that it is managed prudently
If handled wisely
In conjunction with
Together with
A well-balanced allocation of funds
A fair distribution of resources
Ensure
Guarantee
Adequately supported
Properly funded
Pronunciation
Practice saying the vocabulary below and use this tip about Google voice search:
ˈɡʌvᵊnmənt səˈpɔːt
ˈvaɪtᵊl
ˈkʌlʧᵊrᵊl ænd ɑːˈtɪstɪk dɪˈvɛləpmənt
ˈkɒnstɪʧuːts
ˌmɪsˈjuːs ɒv ˈpʌblɪk fʌndz
ˈæləʊkeɪtɪŋ rɪˈzɔːsɪz fɔː kriˈeɪtɪvli-ˈmaɪndɪd ˌɪndɪˈvɪʤuəlz
ˈʤʌstɪfaɪəbᵊl
əˈpəʊnənts ɒv
kənˈtɛnd
ˈbɛtə spɛnt ˌɛlsˈweə
pəˈtɪkjələli ɒn mɔː ˈprɛsɪŋ ˈsəʊʃᵊl ˈɪʃuːz
ˈhɛlθkeə
ˈpɒvəti əˌliːviˈeɪʃᵊn
ˈkrɪtɪks meɪk ðə pɔɪnt
ˈvæljəbᵊl
ˈlʌkʃᵊri
teɪk ˈprɛsɪdᵊns ˈəʊvə ˈbeɪsɪk ˈpʌblɪk ˈsɜːvɪsɪz
ˈdjʊərɪŋ taɪmz ɒv ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈhɑːdʃɪp
feɪst wɪð ˈbʌʤɪt ˈdɛfɪsɪts
ˈfʌndɪŋ fɔːr ɑːts ˈprəʊɡræmz ʃʊd biː rɪˈdjuːst ɔːr ɪˈlɪmɪneɪtɪd
praɪˈɒrɪˌtaɪz mɔːr ɪˈmiːdiət niːdz
ðɪs ɪz ˈɛvɪdᵊnt ɪn
ɔːˈstɛrəti ˈmɛʒəz
fɔːst sɪɡˈnɪfɪkᵊnt kʌts tuː ˈpʌblɪk ˈsɜːvɪsɪz
siːk ˈfʌndɪŋ θruː ˈpraɪvət miːnz ɔː ˈmɑːkɪt-beɪst ɪˈnɪʃətɪvz
sponsorships
crowdfunding
ˈrɑːðə ðæn ˈstreɪnɪŋ ˈtæksˌpeɪəz
ðəʊz ɪn ˈfeɪvər ɒv
ən ɪˈsɛnʃᵊl pɑːt ɒv
ˈkʌlʧᵊrᵊl ˈhɛrɪtɪʤ ænd aɪˈdɛntəti
wɪˈðaʊt ˈfʌndɪŋ
ˈstrʌɡᵊl tuː kriˈeɪt ðeə wɜːk
dɪˈklaɪn ɪn ˈkʌlʧᵊrᵊl prəˈdʌkʃᵊn
ˈkruːʃᵊl
ˌprɛzəˈveɪʃᵊn
ˈveəriəs ɑːt fɔːmz
ˈæləʊkeɪts ˈmʌni tuː ɑːts ˈprɒʤɛkts
ˈləʊkᵊl ˈθɪətə prəˈdʌkʃᵊnz
ˌɪntəˈnæʃᵊnᵊl ɑːt ˌɛksɪˈbɪʃᵊnz
ɪnˈvɛstmənts
ˈstɪmjəleɪt ˌkriːeɪˈtɪvəti
ɪnˈrɪʧ səˈsaɪəti
əˈtrækt ˈtʊərɪsts
ˈʤɛnəreɪts səbˈstænʃᵊl ˈrɛvənjuː
ˈvɪzɪtəz flɒk tuː ˈsɪtiz nəʊn fɔː ðeə ˈkʌlʧᵊrᵊl ˌɪnstɪˈtjuːʃᵊnz ænd ˈfɛstɪvᵊlz
ˈɡʌvᵊnmənt ˈfʌndɪŋ ɪz ə miːnz tuː prəˈməʊt ˈnæʃᵊnᵊl praɪd ænd ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ɡrəʊθ
ˈprɛzᵊnt ˈvælɪd ˈɑːɡjəmənts
ˈlɒŋtɜːm ˈkʌlʧᵊrᵊl ænd ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk hɛlθ ɒv səˈsaɪəti
prəˈvaɪdɪd ðæt ɪt ɪz ˈmænɪʤd ˈpruːdᵊntli
ɪn kənˈʤʌŋkʃᵊn wɪð
ə ˌwɛlˈbælᵊnst ˌæləʊˈkeɪʃᵊn ɒv fʌndz
ɪnˈʃɔː
ˈædəkwətli səˈpɔːtɪd
Vocabulary Practice
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
Some argue that g_______________t for artists is v____l for c_________________________t, while others believe that it c________s a m______________________s. In my opinion, a____________________________________________________s is j_________e.
On the one hand, o_____________f government support for the arts c_________d that this money could be b______________________________e, p_______________________________s such as h_________e, education, and p_______________n. C______________________t that the arts, while v__________e, are a l_______y that should not t______________________________________s. For example, d_____________________________p, when governments are f__________________s, many believe that f________________________________________________d to p________________________s. T_____________n countries like Greece, where a________________s have f___________________________________s. These critics argue artists should s_____________________________________________s, such as s____________s or c___________g, r__________________________s.
On the other hand, t_________________f government support for artists argue that the arts are a________________f society’s c______________________________y. W______________g, many artists would s_____________________________k, which could lead to a d___________________________n. For instance, state funding has been c______l for the p__________n and development of v________________s. In the United Kingdom, the National Lottery Fund a_____________________________s, helping to support everything from l______________________s to i_________________________s. These i__________s can s__________________y, e____________y, and a_____________s. In fact, art often g_______________________e through tourism, as v____________________________________________________________s. Therefore, g______________________________________________________________________h.
In conclusion, while both sides p________________________s, I believe that government support for artists is crucial for the l___________________________________________________y, p_______________________________________y and i__________________h other societal priorities. A_____________________________s can e________e that both the arts and essential public services are a________________________d.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
Reading Practice
Read more about this topic and use these ideas to practice:
https://www.history.com/topics/renaissance/medici-family
Speaking Practice
Art
Question 1: Do you like art?
Question 2: Do you like visiting art galleries?
Question 3: Do you want to be an artist?
Question 4: Do you like modern or traditional art?
Writing Practice
In today’s world of advanced science and technology, many still greatly value artists such as musicians, painters and writers.
What can the arts tell us about life that science cannot?
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