Writing task 2: Traditional Values Still Relevant in Modern Society?

 

Older generations often hold some traditional ideas on the correct way of life, thought and behaviour. Most people argue that these are not helpful for younger generations to prepare for modern life. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Model Answer:

As society continues to evolve, the gap between traditional values and modern lifestyles grows wider. While some argue that older generations’ beliefs are no longer useful, I believe that many of these ideas still hold value and can benefit younger generations in preparing for life today.

There are certainly some traditional views that may not align with modern thinking. For example, older generations often emphasise obedience, conformity, and strict gender roles—ideas that may limit individual freedom and equality in today’s world. In a society that increasingly values diversity, independence, and personal expression, such views may appear outdated and even harmful. Furthermore, rapid technological and social changes mean that advice from the past does not always apply to the present. As a result, it is understandable why some believe that traditional ideas have lost their relevance.

Nevertheless, not all traditional values should be dismissed. Many of them, such as respect for others, hard work, honesty, and responsibility, are timeless and essential for personal and professional success. These principles help build character and contribute to a more stable and cooperative society. In addition, the wisdom of older generations, gained through life experience, can offer guidance in areas such as managing relationships, making long-term decisions, or dealing with failure. Therefore, while some ideas may need to be updated, others continue to provide a solid foundation for modern life.

In conclusion, although certain traditional beliefs may no longer fit the modern world, many still offer valuable lessons. In my view, rather than rejecting these ideas entirely, young people should learn to adopt the ones that remain relevant and let go of those that no longer serve a useful purpose.

(292 words)

Kien Pham (8.0 IELTS/ Thạc sĩ TESOL) 

LANGUAGE PRACTICE :

Fill in the blanks using the correct form of the words provided in the box.

conformity diversity dismissed foundation guidance harmful independence outdated relevance wisdom

As society continues to evolve, the gap between traditional values and modern lifestyles grows wider. While some argue that older generations’ beliefs are no longer useful, many of these ideas still hold value and can benefit younger generations in preparing for life today.

There are certainly some traditional views that may not align with modern thinking. For example, older generations often emphasise obedience, __________, and strict gender roles—ideas that may limit individual freedom and equality in today’s world. In a society that increasingly values __________, __________, and personal expression, such views may appear __________ and even __________. Furthermore, rapid technological and social changes mean that advice from the past does not always apply to the present. As a result, it is understandable why some believe that traditional ideas have lost their __________.

Nevertheless, not all traditional values should be __________. Many of them, such as respect for others, hard work, honesty, and responsibility, are timeless and essential for personal and professional success. These principles help build character and contribute to a more stable and cooperative society. In addition, the __________ of older generations, gained through life experience, can offer __________ in areas such as managing relationships or making long-term decisions. Therefore, while some ideas may need to be updated, others continue to provide a solid __________ for modern life.

 Answer Key:

1. conformity

2. diversity

3. independence

4. outdated

5. harmful

6. relevance

7. dismissed

8. wisdom

9. guidance

10. foundation