Learning English at school is often seen as more important than learning local languages. If these are not taught, many are at risk of dying out. In your opinion, is it important for everyone to learn English? Should we try to ensure the survival of local languages and, if so, how?
It is widely believed that obtaining the
English
language
skill is more essential than studying native languages
, in which many of them are facing the possibility of extinction due to a lack of education. There is no doubt that preserving local languages
is imperative; however
, I still believe English
should be taught to everyone since it is one
of the essential tools that is
needed to survive in the current globalised society.
On one
hand, I believe it is important to protect native languages
and encourage people to learn them through proper education. This
is because a language
is not just a communication tool, but it is part of one
’s culture
. A recent study, for instance
, shows that one
’s culture
plays an essential role in shaping a language
, so that specific nouns and verbs are only developed among people who share the same culture
. Thus
, it is fair to say language
and culture
are closely tied.
On the other hand
, I still think everyone should learn English
as it is the de-facto official language
used on the international stage, which is more well-connected than ever. This
is why many international financial hubs like Hong Kong and Singapore adopt English
as one
of their official languages
apart from their native dialects. Besides
, more and more companies around the world require candidates to equip themselves with English
language
skills when hiring new employees. Hence
, without being able to speak English
, it would be very difficult to survive nowadays.
To sum up, one
's language
is shaped by one
's culture
, while English
language
skills are required to thrive these days. For these reasons, the importance of preserving local languages
should be stressed, while it is still necessary for everyone to acquire English
skills.Submitted by taejun.kang on
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