21. Some experts believe that it is better for children to begin learning a foreign language at primary school rather than secondary school.

Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?

Sample Answer 1

Band 8.5

The question of when children should start learning a foreign language is a topic of ongoing debate. Some experts advocate for primary school, while others suggest secondary school. This essay will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both viewpoints.

Starting foreign language education in primary school has several advantages. Firstly, younger children have a greater capacity for language acquisition. Their brains are more flexible, allowing them to absorb new sounds and structures more easily than older learners. Secondly, starting early provides more time for practice, which is crucial for achieving fluency. Lastly, learning a foreign language at a young age can foster cultural awareness and empathy.

However, there are also disadvantages to this approach. Primary school curriculums are already packed with subjects, and adding a foreign language to the mix could put undue pressure on young children. Furthermore, not all primary schools have the resources or qualified teachers to provide quality foreign language instruction.

On the other hand, beginning foreign language study in secondary school also has its merits. Older students are more likely to understand the importance of learning a foreign language, which can motivate them to study harder. Additionally, secondary schools are often better equipped to offer a wider range of languages and more advanced instruction.

Nevertheless, starting in secondary school means less time for learning and practice, which could limit the level of proficiency students can achieve. Moreover, older learners may struggle more with pronunciation and grammar due to the reduced plasticity of their brains.

In conclusion, both starting points for foreign language learning have their advantages and disadvantages. In my opinion, the benefits of starting in primary school slightly outweigh the drawbacks. The potential for higher proficiency and the cognitive benefits of early language learning tip the scale in favor of primary school. However, it's essential to ensure that young learners are supported and not overwhelmed, and that schools have the necessary resources to provide quality language instruction.

Difficult Words/Phrases with Example Sentences:

Advocates: (Meaning) People who publicly support a particular cause or policy.

Example Sentence: Environmental advocates are campaigning for stricter regulations on pollution.

Acquisition: (Meaning) The act of getting or achieving something.

Example Sentence: Language acquisition is easier for children than adults.

Fluency: (Meaning) The ability to speak or write a language easily and smoothly.

Example Sentence: She speaks English with great fluency.

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

Example Sentence: He showed great empathy towards his friend who was going through a difficult time.

Undue: (Meaning) Unnecessary or excessive.

Example Sentence: The teacher placed undue pressure on the students to perform well.

Merits: (Meaning) The positive qualities or advantages of something.

Example Sentence: The proposal has some merits, but also some drawbacks.

Equipped: (Meaning) Provided with the necessary things.

• Example Sentence: The hospital is well equipped to handle emergencies.

Proficiency: (Meaning) The ability to do something well.

Example Sentence: He has a high proficiency in French.

Plasticity: (Meaning) The ability to be shaped or molded.

Example Sentence: The brain has the most plasticity during childhood.

Cognitive: (Meaning) Relating to mental processes such as thinking, knowing, and remembering.

Example Sentence: Learning a language can improve cognitive skills.

Overwhelmed: (Meaning) Feeling unable to cope with something because it is too much.

Example Sentence: The students were overwhelmed with homework.

Tip the scale: (Meaning) To decisively influence a decision or outcome in favor of something.

Example Sentence: The positive aspects tipped the scale in favor of the new project.

21. Some experts believe that it is better for children to begin learning a foreign language at primary school rather than secondary school.

Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?

Sample Answer 2

Band 8.5

The question of whether it is more advantageous for students to begin learning a foreign language in elementary school as opposed to secondary school is the subject of debate. This essay will investigate both viewpoints and offer my opinion on the subject.

Proponents of early language learning argue that beginning in elementary education provides numerous benefits. Children have an increased capacity for language acquisition, and early exposure to a foreign language can result in improved pronunciation and fluency. In addition, acquiring a foreign language at a young age improves cognitive development, enhances problem-solving skills, and fosters cultural awareness and empathy.

However, opponents contend that introducing a foreign language too early could overwhelm children and hinder their progress in other essential subjects. Prior to learning a foreign language, they believe it is more necessary for children to establish a solid foundation in their native language and develop essential literacy and numeracy skills. They suggest that language learning in secondary school, when children's cognitive and linguistic abilities are more developed, may yield superior results.

In my opinion, both approaches have advantages. Early language instruction can provide a strong foundation and cultivate a lifelong appreciation for languages. It enables children to develop a natural and intuitive comprehension of diverse cultures and languages. Nonetheless, it is essential to establish a balance and ensure that language learning at the elementary level is age-appropriate, interactive, and enjoyable, without placing undue academic pressure on young students.

In addition, language instruction should continue throughout secondary education to build on the foundation established in elementary school. This ensures continuity and enables students to enhance their language skills as they advance academically.

Both early language acquisition and secondary school language programmes are advantageous. It is essential to consider the developmental readiness of children and to provide a balanced approach that combines early exposure to foreign languages with opportunities for ongoing language learning throughout their education.

Difficult Words/Phrases with Example Sentences:

Proponents: (Meaning) People who publicly support a particular cause or policy.

Example Sentence: Environmental proponents are campaigning for stricter regulations on pollution.

Acquisition: (Meaning) The act of getting or achieving something.

Example Sentence: Language acquisition is easier for children than adults.

Fluency: (Meaning) The ability to speak or write a language easily and smoothly.

Example Sentence: She speaks English with great fluency.

Cognitive: (Meaning) Relating to mental processes such as thinking, knowing, and remembering.

Example Sentence: Learning a language can improve cognitive skills.

Literacy: (Meaning) The ability to read, write, and understand written language.

Example Sentence: Children should develop strong literacy skills early on.

Numeracy: (Meaning) The ability to do mathematics.

Example Sentence: Basic numeracy skills are essential for everyday life.

Yield: (Meaning) To produce or provide something.

Example Sentence: The new investment yielded positive results.

Cultivate: (Meaning) To encourage the development of something.

Example Sentence: She cultivated a love of reading in her children.

Undue: (Meaning) Unnecessary or excessive.

Example Sentence: The teacher placed undue pressure on the students to perform well.

Continuity: (Meaning) The state of continuing without interruption.

Example Sentence: The company ensured continuity of service during the upgrade.

Developmental readiness: (Meaning) The stage at which someone is physically and mentally able to learn something new.

Example Sentence: Children reach developmental readiness for different skills at different ages.

21. Some experts believe that it is better for children to begin learning a foreign language at primary school rather than secondary school.

Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?

Sample Answer 3

Band 8

There's no denying the significance of the English language in academic and societal contexts today, as it has become the primary language of instruction in many countries, offering numerous advantages.

Learning a foreign language, such as English, at an early age carries several benefits. Firstly, the young minds of primary-school students exhibit remarkable adaptability, making it easier for them to grasp multiple languages compared to teenagers. Secondly, the cognitive abilities of children are at a peak during this stage of development. A survey by the 'Hindustan Times' highlights that children below the age of ten possess an IQ level four times more creative than their older counterparts. Furthermore, early exposure to the English language ensures a smoother development of pronunciation, listening, and writing skills, minimizing challenges faced by those introduced to it later in life.

However, alongside these advantages, there are notable downsides to introducing such language learning initiatives at the primary level. Firstly, it can potentially disrupt the psychological development of primary school students, leading to mental health issues. When the English language becomes compulsory, students might perceive it as an additional burden, impacting their individual interests and choices. Secondly, for students inclined towards non-academic pursuits like sports, music, or arts, mandatory language learning can make their overall educational experience monotonous, affecting their performance in their specific fields.

In conclusion, while the debate presents strong arguments on both sides, the advantages of early language learning, fueled by the active and sharp memory of young minds, seem to outweigh the disadvantages. The key lies in finding a balance that supports comprehensive development without imposing undue pressure on students.

21. Some experts believe that it is better for children to begin learning a foreign language at primary school rather than secondary school.

Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?

Sample Answer 4

Band 8.5

The last 50 years have witnessed a significant shift in people's perceptions regarding the importance of learning a foreign language. International languages play a crucial role in a nation's growth, and the debate on whether to introduce foreign language acquisition at primary school rather than secondary school is rife with compelling arguments on both sides.

Undoubtedly, initiating the learning of a second language at the primary school level holds numerous advantages. First and foremost, it nurtures linguistic expertise in children, fostering confidence and contributing to their holistic development. Fluency in multiple languages gained at an early age not only enhances communication skills but also instills a sense of self-assurance. Additionally, exposure to different languages fosters a broad-minded perspective, enabling children to tackle challenges with adaptability and realism. Studies even support the notion that individuals proficient in multiple languages tend to exhibit higher levels of intelligence.

Contrastingly, delaying the introduction of foreign language education until secondary school comes with its set of drawbacks. The primary concern is that juggling different subjects at the secondary level poses challenges for students, potentially hindering their language learning process. The concurrent demands of various subjects may compromise the depth of linguistic skills that could be acquired if initiated earlier. Moreover, the busy schedule at the secondary level, marked by academic and practical commitments, may leave little room for dedicated language learning.

In conclusion, the importance of learning a foreign language early in life is evident, providing individuals with a competitive edge and enhanced linguistic capabilities. The advantages of starting this educational journey at the primary school level outweigh the challenges, ensuring not only linguistic proficiency but also contributing to the overall growth and adaptability of individuals in a globalized world.

21. Some experts believe that it is better for children to begin learning a foreign language at primary school rather than secondary school.

Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?

Sample Answer 5

Band 8

Undoubtedly, the English language has assumed paramount importance in academic and societal spheres today, emerging as the predominant medium of instruction in many countries. This linguistic shift carries a multitude of advantages, especially when introduced to learners at an early age.

The benefits of acquiring a foreign language, particularly English, during the formative years of primary education are noteworthy. Firstly, the malleability of young minds in primary-school students fosters a remarkable adaptability to linguistic nuances, a trait not as prevalent among teenagers. Their cognitive abilities, operating at their peak during this developmental phase, contribute to an efficient grasp of multiple languages. A survey conducted by the 'Hindustan Times' underscores this by revealing that children below the age of ten exhibit an IQ level four times more creative than their older counterparts. Additionally, initiating English language learning in early childhood facilitates a seamless development of pronunciation, listening, and writing skills, alleviating challenges faced by those introduced to it later in life.

However, despite these advantages, the introduction of language learning initiatives at the primary level is not without its drawbacks. Firstly, there is a potential risk of disrupting the psychological development of primary school students, possibly leading to mental health issues. The mandatory nature of English language learning might burden students, impacting their individual interests and choices. Furthermore, for students inclined towards non-academic pursuits such as sports, music, or arts, the obligatory nature of language learning can render their educational experience monotonous, detrimentally affecting their performance in their chosen fields.

In conclusion, while the debate surrounding early language learning presents compelling arguments on both sides, the advantages, driven by the active and sharp memory of young minds, seem to outweigh the disadvantages. Striking a balance that supports holistic development without imposing undue pressure on students remains crucial in navigating this linguistic landscape.