IELTS Writing Task 2
Sample Answer
Band 7+
19. Some people say that the only reason for learning a foreign language is in order to travel to or work in a foreign country. Others say that these are not the only reasons why someone should learn a foreign language.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Sample Answer 1
The reasons for acquiring a foreign language have been the topic of much debate. While some argue that the solitary purpose is to travel or work abroad, others argue that there are additional advantages. This essay will present both perspectives and my own opinion.
Those who assert that the only reason to acquire a foreign language is for practical purposes, such as travel or work, argue that it is a means of communicating effectively in a foreign environment. Learning the language of a country in which one intends to reside or work can facilitate integration, increase cultural awareness, and boost career prospects. They emphasise the utility of language abilities in achieving particular objectives.
IELTS Speaking
Part-1 Practice
Others, however, believe that the benefits of acquiring a foreign language extend beyond practical considerations. Learning a new language can broaden a person's horizons, enhance cultural appreciation, and cultivate empathy and an understanding of other cultures. It provides access to literature, art, music, and films from various areas of the globe, allowing individuals to gain exposure to a variety of perspectives and ideas. Moreover, acquiring a second language improves cognitive abilities such as memory, problem-solving, and multitasking.
Learning a foreign language, in my opinion, has both practical and intrinsic benefits. While the ability to communicate in a foreign country is undeniably advantageous, the process of language acquisition itself provides numerous benefits. It broadens our perspective on the world, facilitates cross-cultural communication, and cultivates essential cognitive skills that can be applied in a variety of contexts.
Moreover, language learning can foster a sense of connection and empathy with people of diverse linguistic backgrounds and cultures. In a world that is becoming more interconnected and globalised, the ability to bridge linguistic and cultural gaps is essential for nurturing understanding and collaboration.
In conclusion, acquiring a foreign language has both utilitarian and aesthetic benefits. In addition to facilitating effective communication in foreign environments, learning a second language enriches cultural awareness, broadens horizons, and develops cognitive abilities. Embracing language learning for its multifaceted advantages can contribute to personal development and a more inclusive and interconnected society.
Important Vocabulary and Phrases
Urban expansion: The growth and development of cities.
Sustainable urban development: Ensuring that urban growth is environmentally friendly, socially inclusive, and economically viable.
Infrastructure development: Building and improving essential systems and structures in urban areas.
Balancing economic growth and environmental conservation: Finding a harmonious relationship between economic development and protecting the environment.
Smart cities: Cities that utilize technology and data to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and quality of life.
IELTS Speaking
Part-1 Practice
19. Some people say that the only reason for learning a foreign language is in order to travel to or work in a foreign country. Others say that these are not the only reasons why someone should learn a foreign language.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Sample Answer 2
BAND 6.5
There is little room for doubt that in one's life, the need for learning a foreign language to stay up-to-date in a civilised society is paramount today. The issue of studying another language to travel or to work in a foreign country is contentious, since there are strong arguments for and against it.
Indeed, learning a non-native speaker's language has several upsides for travellers or for workers who want to go abroad. The first one is to understand the culture of another nation. For example, if someone wants to visit London for tourism, they will have to learn the British language crucially. Added to this, they improve their communication skills so that foreign visitors can become familiar with foreigners. Moreover, this language is important for the development of the economic growth of a country. For instance, according to a study conducted by the Times of India, 40% of high school students, after completing their secondary education, go to Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and many more for their higher studies and bright future in India.
On the other hand, others believe that there are more reasons to learn a foreign language. Firstly, to improve study skills, resulting in an excellent personality by enhancing their speaking skills. Secondly, English has become a compulsory subject for almost every school, as it is necessary for job seekers to pass an interview and many more.
To conclude, it seems to me that learning a foreign language is not only compulsory for travel or for working in another country, but it is also important for the overall personality development of individuals.
265 Words
19. Some people say that the only reason for learning a foreign language is in order to travel to or work in a foreign country. Others say that these are not the only reasons why someone should learn a foreign language.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Sample Answer 3
BAND 6
There is no denying the fact that language plays a crucial role in people's lives. Many people opine that work or education is the mere reason for learning a foreign language. However, others believe there are some other reasons, too.
On the one hand, an alarming number of people are shifting abroad in order to acquire a good education or to work for international companies. To live a comfortable life there, individuals have to learn a foreign language so that they can easily communicate with their peers or colleagues. Moreover, travelling is one of the reasons. Many people tend to experience different cultures and explore different places, so it becomes necessary for them to learn their native languages. For example, a recent survey showed that the percentage of people who learn foreign languages has increased to 80%.
On the other hand, most people argue that there are some other reasons for learning foreign languages. First and foremost, many international companies visit India to expand their business. Therefore, to interact with them, native business owners learn their languages so that they can expand their business at a global level. Furthermore, some people have friends and relatives who live overseas. Thus, to stay connected with them, they learn their native languages. In addition to this, with the advent of the internet, it has become easy to watch films or dramas from different nations, and most people learn their languages so that they can watch them without any interruption.
In conclusion, it seems to me that education, work and travelling are not the only reasons. People learn different languages to expand their businesses and stay connected with their loved ones.
277 Words