language 1
Language
Language is human speech, either spoken or written. Language is the most common system of communication. It allows people to talk to each other and to write their thoughts and ideas.
The word language may be loosely used to mean any system of communication, such as traffic lights or Indian smoke signals. But the origin of the word shows its basic use. It comes from the Latin word lingua, meaning tongue. And a language still is often called a tongue.
Wherever there is human society, there is language. Most forms of human activity depend on the cooperation of two or more people. A common language enables human beings to work together in an infinite variety of ways.
Language has made possible the development of advanced, technological civilization. Without language for communication, there would be little or no science, religion, commerce, government, art, literature, and philosophy.
Personal
1. What languages do you know? What languages can you speak?
2. I have studied a foreign language. True or false? If yes, what languages have you studied? Where did you study them? Was it difficult?
3. My friends and colleagues can speak English or other foreign languages. Yes or no?
4. Which languages sounds nice, pleasing, or “sexy” to you?
Language and Nation
5. Is there an official language or languages in your country? What is or are the official language(s) in your country?
6. What languages are spoken in your country? Which is the “main” language?
7. Most people in my country can speak English. Is this right or wrong?
8. Is everyone in your city or town interested in mastering English? Does everyone want to speak English?
9. English has become an unofficial second language in my country in terms of usage in business, education, science, technology, computers, television, tourism, travel, friendship. What do you think?
10. Have there been other foreign languages (besides English, for example, French, German) that has been widely used in your country?
11. I’m afraid that English will take over, and my native language will become extinct. Do you agree?
