Introduction In an increasingly globalized world, people from different cultural backgrounds interact more closely than ever before. This has led to discussions about the importance of cultural education, especially for...
Faglig kvalitetssikret av lærere og toppstudenter · Følger læreplanen (LK20) · Sist oppdatert 2026-07-23
Answering whether learning about different cultures truly makes young people more tolerant requires more than a simple yes or no; it demands a structured argument supported by concrete evidence. This guide breaks down how to construct a nuanced essay on this topic, providing analytical tools, examiner insights, and clear examples to help you achieve a top grade.
Why this matters on the exam
The topic of cultural tolerance is a cornerstone of the English subject curriculum, particularly within the core element "Communication". Exam questions frequently ask you to discuss social issues, globalization, and how individuals interact within a diverse society. Mastering this theme demonstrates your ability to engage with complex contemporary issues, a key skill assessed in both written and oral exams. You are expected to move beyond personal opinion and build an argument using your knowledge of society, history, and culture.
You might encounter this topic in various forms:
- Direct discussion task: "To what extent does learning about other cultures promote tolerance in young people? Discuss." This is the classic argumentative essay format, like the one analysed below.
- Text-based analysis: You might be given a short story, poem, or news article that deals with a cultural clash or misunderstanding and be asked to analyse how it portrays themes of prejudice or empathy. For example, an except from a novel like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's Americanah could be used to prompt a discussion on cultural identity and perception.
- Comparative task: …