GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 244
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people think young people should follow the traditions of their society. Others think that they should be free to behave as individuals.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer:
It is often suggested by some that the young generation should adhere to the conventions of their society. Others, on the contrary, feel that they ought to be left free to act as an individual. This essay will discuss both viewpoints before venturing an opinion.
Some people argue that youth should have the freedom to act as they wish. This is because their fresh perspective gives them a unique ability to come up with creative ideas. In simple words, unconstrained by deep-seated societal conventions and norms, young adults can think up innovative ideas that never cross the minds of the world-weary older generation. The history of mankind has evidenced that when the younger generation enjoys the freedom to go their own way, they cause a change in societal status quo to more perfectly deal with the conditions of a society at a given time. Their ideas, in fact, illuminate new avenues forward. Therefore, young people should be allowed to enjoy liberty so that they can perpetuate the progress of their society.
Others, however, believe that the young generation should conform to the traditions of their society. The rationale is that it helps maintain a sense of common identity that is essential for the harmony of a society. Traditions, in fact, remind people that they are part of a history that denotes their past, moulds who they are today and who they are likely to become, thus retaining unity. Take American tradition for an example. It enables Americans to demonstrate the values of their Founding Fathers; preserve diversity and unite as a country. However, when young adults compromise the principles of their traditions, they are in danger of damaging the strength of their collective identity. So the young generation ought to keep age-old traditions alive.
In conclusion, the young generation should carefully consider social norms while behaving independently. This would help promote a healthy community while also helping them become responsible and creative individuals.