VSTEP B1, B2, C1 Speaking Part 3: Topic Development
Question: English has become a global lingua franca, impacting business, academia, and social relationships worldwide.
- facilitates international communication
- enhances job prospects
- promotes access to global information
Further discussion questions:
- What are some of the challenges people face when learning English as a second language?
- How has the widespread use of English impacted cultural diversity?
- Should English be made a compulsory subject in all schools worldwide?
Answer:English's status as a global lingua franca has numerous impacts on various facets of life. As a medium for international communication, it enables cross-cultural collaboration and understanding, particularly in the business and academic sectors. In terms of career prospects, proficiency in English often opens a wider range of opportunities, as many multinational corporations use English as their working language. Additionally, English offers extensive access to global information, with the majority of the internet's content being in English, granting those proficient in it a significant advantage.
Further discussion questions:
- What are some of the challenges people face when learning English as a second language?
Learning English as a second language can pose challenges related to pronunciation, grammatical structure, and vocabulary, which often differ significantly from learners' native languages. Moreover, limited access to quality education and resources can also be a hindrance.
- How has the widespread use of English impacted cultural diversity?
While English's widespread use has facilitated global communication, it has also raised concerns about the marginalization of other languages and cultures. In some cases, it can lead to cultural homogenization, reducing linguistic and cultural diversity.
- Should English be made a compulsory subject in all schools worldwide?
Making English a compulsory subject worldwide is contentious. On one hand, it could provide students with valuable skills for the global market. On the other, it might undervalue other languages and place undue emphasis on English, possibly leading to linguistic and cultural erosion. Balancing these factors is crucial when making educational policy decisions.
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