PTE Academic Write Essay · Opinion (agree or disagree)

Arts and Culture as a Societal Turning Point

A high-scoring sample essay with the plan behind it, the vocabulary that lifts it, and what the scoring traits reward.
  • 241 words
  • Opinion (agree or disagree)
  • intermediate
  • 20 minutes

The prompt

Some experts argue that arts and culture represents a critical turning point for contemporary civilization. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Support your opinion with relevant examples and logical reasoning.

20 minutes. Write 200 to 300 words. A BandLadder practice prompt, not a recalled exam question.

Opinion (agree or disagree)

Plan before you write

  1. 1

    Position

    I strongly agree that arts and culture serve as a vital catalyst for societal evolution and cross-cultural understanding.

  2. 2

    Paragraph 2

    Arts act as a medium for critical social reflection and historical preservation.

  3. 3

    Paragraph 3

    Cultural exchange fosters empathy and bridges divides in an increasingly fragmented global landscape.

  • →State a clear position in the last sentence of the introduction and keep it to the end.
  • →Two body paragraphs that each give one reason for that position, with an example.
  • →A partial position is fine if it is stated precisely; a position that drifts is what caps task response at 6.

Model answer

Sample essay

High-scoring sample241 words. Use the structure and vocabulary, not the sentences: PTE flags memorised templates.

The significance of arts and culture in shaping contemporary civilization is a subject of intense debate. I strongly agree that these elements serve as a vital catalyst for societal evolution, as they provide the necessary framework for introspection and international cohesion.

Primarily, the arts function as a mirror for human experience, allowing society to critique its own values and document its history. Through literature, visual arts, and performance, marginalized voices are amplified, and historical narratives are preserved beyond mere statistics. For instance, the Renaissance period remains a testament to how creative expression can redefine human potential and challenge the prevailing dogmas of an era, ultimately steering civilization toward enlightenment and scientific inquiry.

Furthermore, cultural engagement is instrumental in bridging the gaps between disparate societies. In an era often marked by polarization, the shared language of music, cinema, and traditional crafts fosters empathy by humanizing diverse populations. A pertinent example is the global influence of cultural exchange programs, which utilize artistic collaboration to resolve diplomatic tensions. By prioritizing cultural dialogue, nations can cultivate mutual respect, which is essential for maintaining stability in an interconnected world.

In conclusion, arts and culture are far from being mere aesthetic luxuries; they are fundamental pillars of progress. By facilitating critical reflection and promoting international empathy, they steer civilization toward a more nuanced and unified future. It is imperative that governments continue to invest in these sectors to ensure the sustained growth and resilience of global society.

Scoring traits

Why this scores well

This essay excels in linguistic range and logical development by using sophisticated transitions and precise vocabulary. The most common error on this prompt is failing to provide specific, concrete examples, opting instead for vague generalizations about culture.

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8 words

Vocabulary from the essay

  • catalyst

    a person or thing that precipitates an event

  • introspection

    the examination of one's own conscious thoughts

  • dogmas

    principles laid down by an authority as incontrovertibly true

  • disparate

    essentially different in kind and not allowing comparison

  • polarization

    division into two sharply contrasting groups or sets

  • humanizing

    making something more humane or civilized

  • aesthetic

    concerned with beauty or the appreciation of beauty

  • resilience

    the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties

See also the Write Essay guide.

Frequently asked questions

How long should a PTE essay be?+

Between 200 and 300 words; outside that range the form score drops to zero. This sample is 241 words, written for the 20-minute limit.

What type of essay is this?+

Opinion (agree or disagree). State a clear position in the last sentence of the introduction and keep it to the end.

What does PTE reward in the essay?+

This essay excels in linguistic range and logical development by using sophisticated transitions and precise vocabulary. The most common error on this prompt is failing to provide specific, concrete examples, opting instead for vague generalizations about culture.

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