VSTEP B1, B2, C1 Speaking Part 3: Topic Development
Question: Languages are more than communication tools; they reflect the history, culture, and identity of a community.
- facilitates communication
- reflects cultural identity
- shapes cognitive processes
Further discussion questions:
- How does learning a new language influence an individual's perception of the world?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of having one global language?
- How can we preserve endangered languages?
Answer:Languages, beyond their primary function of communication, serve as a testament to a community's history, culture, and identity. They facilitate interaction and exchange of ideas, making societies more cohesive and dynamic. Moreover, each language uniquely reflects the cultural identity of its speakers, embedding within its grammar, idioms, and vocabulary the beliefs, values, and experiences of the community. Furthermore, languages shape cognitive processes, influencing how we perceive and interact with the world around us, thereby enriching our thought processes and problem-solving abilities.
Further discussion questions:
- How does learning a new language influence an individual's perception of the world?
Learning a new language can significantly broaden an individual's worldview. It provides insights into another culture, fosters empathy, and promotes cross-cultural understanding. Moreover, it stimulates cognitive development, enhances problem-solving skills, and may even offer a fresh perspective on one's native language.
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of having one global language?
Having one global language could facilitate communication and reduce linguistic barriers, potentially fostering global unity. However, it risks eroding linguistic diversity, which could lead to loss of cultural identities and homogenization of ideas. Also, the global language might reflect the values and norms of some societies more than others, leading to cultural bias.
- How can we preserve endangered languages?
Preservation of endangered languages can be achieved through concerted efforts like documentation, creating digital language resources, and promoting their usage in daily life. Governments can also enact policies to protect linguistic diversity, while educational institutions can include endangered languages in their curriculum to foster interest among the younger generation.
Sample Answers
Listen to the sample questions and answers
