12. 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

Band 8.5

Learning a language from another country is often thought of as something you need to do if you want to travel or work in that place. But some people say there are more reasons to learn a foreign language. Both ideas have good points and not-so-good points.

Practically, learning a foreign language for travel or work is really useful. It helps you talk better and understand the local culture, making the experience more interesting. For work, it can open doors in big companies that work worldwide or in places where that language is spoken. It can also be a big advantage in a job market that's getting more connected around the world.

But learning a foreign language is good for more than just travel or work. It can help your brain work better, like being better at solving problems and doing more than one thing at a time. It can also make you understand different cultures better, and that's good for talking to people from different places. Plus, it can make you feel good about yourself, like you achieved something important that you can use in many situations.

In my opinion, even though learning for travel or work is a good reason, it's not the only reason. There are many benefits, like getting smarter, understanding different cultures, and feeling proud of yourself. So, it's a good idea for anyone to learn a foreign language, not just for travel or work. We should encourage people to learn a language for all the good things it brings, not just for specific plans to travel or work.

Difficult Words and Phrases with Sentences (Example Sentence):

Perceived: (Meaning) Believed by many people to be true, although not necessarily so.

Example Sentence: While learning a foreign language for travel or work is often perceived as the main reason, it offers various cognitive and cultural benefits.

Multilingual: (Meaning) Able to speak more than two languages.

Example Sentence: Becoming multilingual through foreign language learning enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Culturally aware: (Meaning) Having knowledge and understanding of different cultures.

Example Sentence: Learning a foreign language fosters cultural awareness, increasing empathy and understanding for diverse perspectives.

Sense of accomplishment: (Meaning) A feeling of satisfaction achieved through completing a challenging task.

Example Sentence: Mastering a foreign language provides a unique sense of accomplishment, boosting self-confidence and motivation.

Versatility: (Meaning) The ability to adapt to different situations or requirements.

Example Sentence: Foreign language skills offer increased versatility in the globalized job market, opening doors to diverse career opportunities.

Interconnectedness: (Meaning) The state of being connected to each other.

Example Sentence: In today's interconnected world, language skills facilitate communication and collaboration across borders.

Encouragement: (Meaning) Giving someone support or confidence to do something.

Example Sentence: We should actively encourage foreign language learning, highlighting its multifaceted benefits beyond travel and work.

Motivational: (Meaning) Causing someone to want to do something.

Example Sentence: Recognizing the intrinsic benefits of language learning fosters a more motivational approach than solely focusing on practical applications.

12. 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 8.5

             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.

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.

Difficult Words and Phrases with Sentences (Example Sentence):

Debated: (verb) - Discussed with strong disagreement.

Example: The merits of foreign language acquisition have been debated for centuries, with diverse perspectives emerging.

Solitary: (adjective) - Existing or happening alone.

Example: While travel and work may be seen as the solitary reasons for language learning, other benefits exist.

Integration: (noun) - The process of becoming part of a society or group.

Example: Language fluency aids in integration by facilitating effective communication and cultural understanding.

Horizons: (noun) - The limit of one's understanding or experience.

Example: Learning a foreign language broadens our horizons by exposing us to new cultures and perspectives.

Empathy: (noun) - The ability to understand and share the feelings of another person.

Example: Language acquisition fosters empathy by helping us connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Intrinsic: (adjective) - Inherent or belonging to the essential nature of something.

Example: Beyond practical applications, language learning offers intrinsic benefits for personal growth and understanding.

Aesthetic: (adjective) - Concerned with beauty or the appreciation of beauty.

Example: Mastering a language can be seen as an aesthetic pursuit, appreciating the beauty and intricacies of its expression.

Utilitarian: (adjective) - Concerned with or emphasizing practical usefulness.

Example: The utilitarian benefits of language learning include communication fluency and career opportunities.

12. 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 8

Undoubtedly, language holds a pivotal role in shaping individuals' lives. While many assert that education or employment is the primary motivation behind learning a foreign language, others contend that there are diverse and multifaceted reasons.

On the one hand, a considerable number of individuals are relocating to foreign countries for educational pursuits or to engage in international work environments. To thrive in these settings and lead a comfortable life, mastering a foreign language becomes imperative for seamless communication with peers or colleagues. Additionally, the desire to explore different cultures and travel to diverse places serves as a compelling motivation. This is evidenced by a recent survey indicating an 80% increase in the number of people learning foreign languages.

On the other hand, proponents argue that there exist additional motivations for learning foreign languages. Firstly, the influx of international companies into India has prompted native business owners to learn the languages of these companies, facilitating global business expansion. Furthermore, individuals with friends and relatives residing overseas find it essential to learn their native languages for effective communication and connection. Additionally, the accessibility of foreign films and dramas through the internet has spurred a desire among people to learn the corresponding languages, enabling uninterrupted enjoyment of diverse cultural content.

In conclusion, it is evident that education, work, and travel are not the sole reasons for learning foreign languages. The motivations extend to business expansion and maintaining connections with loved ones, showcasing the multifaceted nature of language acquisition.      

12. 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 4

Band 8.5

In one's life, the imperative need for acquiring proficiency in a foreign language to thrive in a civilized society cannot be overstated. The question of whether studying another language for travel or work in a foreign country is a topic of debate, with compelling arguments both in favor and against.

Undoubtedly, delving into the intricacies of a non-native language holds numerous advantages for those seeking to explore foreign lands or pursue opportunities abroad. Firstly, it serves as a key to unlocking the rich tapestry of another nation's culture. For instance, a traveler aiming to explore London would find it crucial to grasp the nuances of the British language. Additionally, mastering a foreign language enhances communication skills, fostering familiarity and connection with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Furthermore, language proficiency plays a pivotal role in a country's economic development. A case in point is the significant percentage of high school students, post their secondary education, who choose to pursue higher studies in countries like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand for a promising future, contributing to India's global representation, as per a study by the Times of India.

On the flip side, some contend that there are broader reasons to advocate for learning a foreign language. Firstly, it acts as a catalyst for improving overall study skills, resulting in a well-rounded personality through enhanced articulation. Secondly, English, emerging as a mandatory subject in almost every school, is considered essential for job seekers, aiding in successful interviews and professional pursuits.

To conclude, it is evident that learning a foreign language extends beyond mere practicality for travel or work in another country; it is a catalyst for comprehensive personality development and academic success.