People Should Follow the Customs and Traditions When They Start to Live in a New Country - IELTS Writing Task 2

Agree/Disagree essays, such as ‘People should follow the customs and traditions when they start to live in a new countrys’, are among the most frequently asked question types in IELTS Writing Task 2. While these are often framed as “To what extent do you agree or disagree?” questions, they allow you the flexibility to fully agree, fully disagree, or partially agree with the statement. What matters most is presenting a clear opinion supported by two to three well-developed arguments and relevant examples.

Since IELTS Writing Task 2 can be challenging for many candidates, practicing topics like, ‘People should follow the customs and traditions when they start to live in a new countrys,’ will help you acquaint yourself with the format of structuring an IELTS Agree Disagree essay.  

Let’s have a look at the IELTS Agree Disagree Essays – ‘People should follow the customs and traditions when they start to live in a new countrys’ – with three expert-curated sample answers for different IELTS band scores.

Question

Structure Breakdown

People should follow the customs and traditions when they start to live in a new country - Sample Answer 1

Many people argue that foreigners should adapt to the customs and traditions of their host country. I completely agree with this view.

Newcomers will face numerous challenges if they fail to conform to the norms of social behaviour in the host community. Firstly, they may struggle to integrate into society and risk social isolation. For instance, an entrepreneur starting a business in a new country must be familiar with local business practices. Without this knowledge, success is unlikely due to both legal pitfalls and difficulties in attracting customers. Secondly, ignoring local customs can lead to conflict or even legal trouble. In Singapore, for example, spitting gum in public or littering is considered both illegal and disrespectful, often angering local residents.

On the other hand, adapting to local traditions offers clear advantages. One key benefit is social acceptance—local people are more welcoming when immigrants respect their way of life, fostering integration and mutual understanding. Furthermore, adopting local customs enriches the immigrant experience. By participating in festivals and national celebrations, newcomers can immerse themselves in community life and develop a stronger sense of belonging. This not only reduces feelings of isolation but also enhances cultural appreciation.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that following the customs and traditions of a host country is essential. It enables immigrants to integrate more effectively, build positive relationships, and fully experience the richness of their new community. 

People should follow the customs and traditions when they start to live in a new country - Sample Answer 2 

When people migrate to a new country, adapting to local customs and traditions is often considered essential. I strongly agree with this view, as cultural adaptation not only fosters social harmony but also enhances personal growth.

Firstly, following local customs enables immigrants to integrate smoothly into the host society. Respecting traditions such as greeting styles, dining etiquette, or community values makes it easier to build trust and acceptance among local residents. For example, newcomers in Japan who observe traditional practices like bowing or removing shoes indoors are more likely to be welcomed and respected. Ignoring such norms, on the other hand, may create misunderstandings and reinforce cultural barriers.

Secondly, observing traditions helps newcomers avoid legal and social conflicts. Many customs are deeply tied to laws and regulations. In Singapore, for instance, practices like chewing gum in public or littering are not only frowned upon but also punishable by law. By aligning with these norms, immigrants can live peacefully without facing unnecessary penalties or resentment from locals.

Finally, embracing local traditions enriches the immigrant’s personal experience. Participating in festivals, cultural events, or national holidays provides opportunities to celebrate diversity and enjoy a sense of belonging. Such experiences broaden perspectives, build cross-cultural friendships, and make life in a new country more fulfilling.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that immigrants should follow the customs and traditions of their host country. Doing so strengthens social bonds, prevents conflicts, and allows them to enjoy a deeper connection with their new community.

People should follow the customs and traditions when they start to live in a new country - Sample Answer 3

Some people argue that immigrants must follow the customs and traditions of their host country. While I agree that respecting local practices is important, I believe newcomers should not be obliged to abandon their own cultural identity, as diversity itself enriches societies.

On the one hand, adapting to certain customs is necessary for peaceful coexistence. Observing basic social norms, such as queuing politely, showing respect for elders, or following public regulations, helps newcomers avoid conflict and gain acceptance. For instance, learning the host country’s communication style or dining etiquette can prevent misunderstandings and make daily interactions smoother. Such adaptation reflects mutual respect and promotes social harmony.

On the other hand, insisting that immigrants fully conform to local traditions risks undermining cultural diversity. Forcing individuals to give up their native customs may cause them to lose touch with their identity and heritage. In multicultural nations like Canada or Australia, immigrants are encouraged to preserve their own traditions while coexisting with others. This not only strengthens cultural exchange but also creates vibrant communities where people can learn from one another. For example, celebrating both Diwali and Christmas in Canada reflects how retaining traditions can foster inclusivity.

Furthermore, complete conformity may create unnecessary pressure for immigrants. Relocating is already a challenging process involving new languages, jobs, and social systems. Allowing individuals the freedom to retain aspects of their culture provides emotional comfort and helps them cope with the transition more smoothly.

In conclusion, while respecting the host country’s customs is essential for integration, immigrants should not be compelled to abandon their own traditions. A balanced approach, where both local and foreign customs are valued, creates a more inclusive and culturally rich society.

People should follow the customs and traditions when they start to live in a new country - IELTS Vocabulary 

Following are some of the IELTS Vocabulary found in the "People should follow the customs and traditions when they start to live in a new country - IELTS Writing Task 2."

• Host country
  Meaning: The country where someone goes to live.
  Example: Immigrants often face challenges when they move to a new host country.

• Blend into
  Meaning: To mix smoothly with others or the environment.
  Example: Learning the local language helps newcomers blend into the community.

• Cultural adaptation
  Meaning: Adjusting to the traditions and behaviours of another culture.
  Example: Cultural adaptation is essential for students studying abroad.

• Mutual understanding
  Meaning: When two groups understand and respect each other.
  Example: Following local customs builds mutual understanding between immigrants and locals.

• Fall foul of the law
  Meaning: To break the law, often by accident.
  Example: Tourists sometimes fall foul of the law if they ignore local regulations.

• Social isolation
  Meaning: The state of being separated from others.
  Example: Ignoring traditions may lead to social isolation for newcomers.

• Integration
  Meaning: Becoming part of a society or group.
  Example: Community festivals help promote the integration of immigrants.

• Pitfalls
  Meaning: Hidden problems or difficulties.
  Example: Not understanding business customs can lead to many pitfalls.

• Cultural identity
  Meaning: A person’s sense of belonging to their own culture.
  Example: Even when moving abroad, people try to maintain their cultural identity.

• Inclusive society
  Meaning: A community that welcomes people from all backgrounds.
  Example: Canada is known for being an inclusive society where diversity is respected.

Understanding how to effectively structure an Agree/Disagree essay is essential for achieving a high band score in IELTS Writing Task 2. By analyzing the sample answers on ‘People should follow the customs and traditions when they start to live in a new country. To what extent do you agree or disagree?’, you can learn how to develop strong arguments, use topic-specific vocabulary, and present your viewpoint clearly. Consistent practice with similar topics will help you write with greater confidence and precision on test day.

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