IELTS Academic essay: complete process (band 8 – 8.5)

Adam introduces the video's unique format where he will write an IELTS essay in real-time, discussing the process as he goes along. He emphasizes the importance of selecting good practice tasks and warns about the potential pitfalls of poor quality tasks. Adam also mentions his intention to write an academic level essay, focusing on higher-level vocabulary and sophisticated grammar, and outlines the structure of the task: discussing both views on immigrants adopting the local culture and giving his opinion.

Adam explores the pros and cons of cultural assimilation versus maintaining one's original culture. He discusses the 'melting pot' concept in the U.S. and the potential loss of one's culture, especially in second-generation immigrants. He contrasts this with the 'cultural mosaic' in Canada, where individuals maintain their heritage while becoming Canadian. Adam decides to argue in favor of adopting the local culture as it seems easier to write about and he has sufficient ideas to support this viewpoint.

Adam begins writing the introduction for his essay, ensuring he understands and paraphrases the task. He introduces the topic of immigration and the debate between newcomers adopting the customs of their host nation versus preserving their ancestral heritage. He takes a clear stance in favor of the former, suggesting that a nation functions more successfully when its citizens are united.

Adam argues that a prosperous country is one that utilizes the power of its citizens, with a united citizenry working towards common goals such as economic strength, security, and independence from outside influence. He emphasizes the importance of creating a communal feeling among residents, which starts with shared language and customs, using the U.S. 'melting pot' as an example.

Adam provides a contrast to his main argument by discussing what might happen if every community only cared about maintaining its own traditions, which could make the nation's goal secondary. He then transitions back to the benefits of adopting local culture, such as faster integration into the system, which includes finding a job, making friends, and establishing a social safety net. He uses the success of the second generation of immigrants as evidence to support his argument.

Adam notes that second-generation immigrants, who grow up in the local culture and speak the language fluently, tend to be more successful than their parents. He suggests that if the parents had adapted more quickly, they might have been more successful as well. He emphasizes discussing both sides of the argument while clearly favoring one, which is a common mistake to avoid in IELTS essays.

In his conclusion, Adam summarizes that while one's heritage is important, it can hinder integration into a new culture and its success. He advises immigrants to adapt quickly to their new homes. He reflects on the essay's length, ensuring it is not too long and that it stays on topic, and mentions that he will spend the remaining time on Task 1 of the IELTS exam.

Adam concludes the video by stating his intention to spend the remaining time on Task 1 and hints at the possibility of doing a live stream in the future for more interactive essay writing. He encourages viewers to subscribe, like, and enable notifications for future videos. He also promises to provide more content on grammar, vocabulary, writing tips, and assessments in upcoming videos.