Hi folks. I discovered this site a while ago and find it very useful. I am guilty of neglecting the writing assignments in my daily practice, mostly because I know Data Sufficiency is my real weak point that needs lots of practice. But also, I'm afraid I may be slightly overconfident of my writing skills because of my educational and professional background. So I'd really appreciate it if someone could take a glance at this and let me know if I'm on the right track. I followed Kaplan's guide. I personally find AOI a bit easier than AOA, which I have yet to try out. Thanks!
Analysis of an issue
Some people believe that second-language fluency is crucial to individual development and international accord, and maintain that language training should begin very early. Others feel that second-language fluency is not necessary to most Americans, and that elementary school should be devoted to basic skills.
Which argument do you find more compelling, the case for early foreign language learning or the opposing viewpoint? Explain your position using relevant reasons or examples drawn fro your own experience, observations, or reading.
In bilingual Canada, where students are introduced to the French language in elementary school, the results of early second language training are obvious. Even those who do not continue studying French into high school have a basic understanding of the language. The question specifically asks about the United States - however, there are benefits to immersing children in another tongue regardless of whether a country is unilingual or multilingual.
First, many countries in the world such as India and Belgium have more than one official language. Exposing people to the different languages spoken by citizens will not only enable them to communicate with one another easily, but create a sense of national harmony and cultural understanding. As well, government jobs in such countries generally require people to have a solid command of both or more of these official languages, which leads to the next point.
The personal and professional rewards of introducing new languages to people at a young age are countless. There are more opportunities to work, live and study abroad, thereby enriching the quality of these experiences, particularly in such a globalized world where boundaries are increasingly blurred.
Additionally, the argument that Americans do not need to bother learning other languages overlooks a major statistic. With Latinos representing the largest minority in the country - not to mention a crucial vote bank and work force - it is becoming more important for ordinary people, politicians and employers to be able to reach out to this community. A firm grasp of Spanish would go a long way in achieving this goal.
Of course, learning is a lifelong adventure and many people learn new languages as they grow older, either out of interest or necessity. But studies have shown that children exposed to ideas at a young age absorb them more quickly than adults, and will retain those skills through continued practice.
Therefore, rather than being considered alien to "basic skills" such as arithmetic and science, second language education should be viewed as an essential component of a comprehensive and well-rounded upbringing. The ability to effectively communicate in more than one language has never been considered a drawback.
Analysis of an issue
Some people believe that second-language fluency is crucial to individual development and international accord, and maintain that language training should begin very early. Others feel that second-language fluency is not necessary to most Americans, and that elementary school should be devoted to basic skills.
Which argument do you find more compelling, the case for early foreign language learning or the opposing viewpoint? Explain your position using relevant reasons or examples drawn fro your own experience, observations, or reading.
In bilingual Canada, where students are introduced to the French language in elementary school, the results of early second language training are obvious. Even those who do not continue studying French into high school have a basic understanding of the language. The question specifically asks about the United States - however, there are benefits to immersing children in another tongue regardless of whether a country is unilingual or multilingual.
First, many countries in the world such as India and Belgium have more than one official language. Exposing people to the different languages spoken by citizens will not only enable them to communicate with one another easily, but create a sense of national harmony and cultural understanding. As well, government jobs in such countries generally require people to have a solid command of both or more of these official languages, which leads to the next point.
The personal and professional rewards of introducing new languages to people at a young age are countless. There are more opportunities to work, live and study abroad, thereby enriching the quality of these experiences, particularly in such a globalized world where boundaries are increasingly blurred.
Additionally, the argument that Americans do not need to bother learning other languages overlooks a major statistic. With Latinos representing the largest minority in the country - not to mention a crucial vote bank and work force - it is becoming more important for ordinary people, politicians and employers to be able to reach out to this community. A firm grasp of Spanish would go a long way in achieving this goal.
Of course, learning is a lifelong adventure and many people learn new languages as they grow older, either out of interest or necessity. But studies have shown that children exposed to ideas at a young age absorb them more quickly than adults, and will retain those skills through continued practice.
Therefore, rather than being considered alien to "basic skills" such as arithmetic and science, second language education should be viewed as an essential component of a comprehensive and well-rounded upbringing. The ability to effectively communicate in more than one language has never been considered a drawback.
