Foreign languages
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A few languages are increasingly spoken in different countries, while the use of others is rapidly declining.
These days, there is a tendency that a small number of languages have gained widespread popularity in the world, while many others are being less spoken.
In my opinion, this trend could bring both positive and negative consequences. To begin with, there are substantial benefits to society when many countries share common languages. The first benefit is that cross-cultural communication can become easier nowadays, which helps boost multilateral trade and cultural exchange. It is true that ones who are bilingual or multilingual find it easier to do business or work in international companies as their issues at work can be addressed and discussed thoroughly. Furthermore, by acquiring languages which are commonly used in business, science and technology, people from less developed countries can accelerate the process of learning from more developed countries. For example, India achieves such incredible growth partly by using English as their official language.
Despite the great convenience of sharing common languages, the fact that other languages are less spoken can bring several drawbacks. The first disadvantage is that communities would lose parts of their cultural traditions such as songs, myths and poetry which are not easily translated into another language. This may in turn affect their cultural identity, producing a weakened social cohesion as their values and traditions are replaced with new ones. Moreover, this trend affects not only the local culture within one nation but also the civilization of mankind. If all countries no longer use their own language but use the same one, this could gradually destroy the cultural diversity of the world.
In conclusion, although I believe the trend is inevitable in the era of globalisation, people need to have measures to protect their less spoken languages as a way to preserve their cultural identity.
Advantages and disadvantages of learning a foreign language.
· studying on your own
· taking lessons with a private tutor
· taking lessons as part of a class
· taking lessons online
· going to live in a country where the language is spoken
The question of how to learn a foreign language has become increasingly important in recent years as business has become more international. Although there are a number of effective ways, I am convinced that living in a country where that language is spoken is the most efficient way of learning.
Traditionally, people have learned languages as part of a large group in a classroom. This has the advantage of providing many opportunities to practise what you learn with a number of different people. In addition, the fees for this form of education are usually reasonable, since a large number of people are taught at once. However, the size of the group means that more demands are placed on the teacher's time. Students may not get the individual attention they require to improve.
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The amount of individual attention you receive is certainly an advantage of working with a private tutor. Also, the student can work at a pace which is comfortable for them. On the other hand, working with a private tutor can lack the social element, which is crucial in learning to communicate well in a foreign language. It can also prove to be beyond the means of many people.
By far the most natural way to acquire a language is to go where it is spoken. Not only is every social interaction a chance to practise, but you are also exposed to the real, living language. As well as that, you are able to acquire a natural accent by imitating the people around you. This is not to say, of course, that there are not drawbacks. Many people suffer from culture shock away from home, and it can be very difficult to integrate into a foreign culture.
In conclusion, I would argue that the advantages of going to another country to learn far outweigh the disadvantages, making it the best option.
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I attend an English language center three times a week / I'm taking an intensive course at a local private language school ….in order to improve my English skills to a higher level. It is suitable for English-speaking academic environment and very useful for me. I practice my skills in reading, writing, and speaking English to achieve a high score. / This course is fun, interactive, and full of practical examples.
Should learning English as an international language be encouraged?
YES
1. English is the official language in more than sixty countries.
2. Learning English leads to more career and educational opportunities.
3. English is widely used around the world. It is actually becoming a global second language.
4. English is the dominant language of technology, science and international business.
5. Most textbooks and journals are published in English.
6. The ability to speak English is a necessary skill in the modern world.
7. Exposing children to English is exposing them to another culture, which could give them a new perspective on life.
NO
1. Twice as many people speak Chinese as speak English. Why not learn Chinese?
2. By 2050, there will be more Hindi and Urdu speakers than English speakers.
3. By 2050, there will be an equal number of Spanish, Arabic and English speakers.
4. English is a difficult language to learn.
5. Some languages disappear because people speak English instead // If one language is dominant, other languages will disappear.
6. Using translation devices is easier than learning English.
7. The dominant language brings its own culture.