Drawing from your readings AND the videos, answer the following questions. Make sure to provide specific examples. Use your own words to define terms. Feel free to draw upon discussions with your classmates as well.
Remember we discussed that language and culture are inseparable. If you learn another language you are opening so many new opportunities.
When it comes to identity, it is like abstract art. Nonverbal clues play a huge role in communication. So, just studying a language will not remove all obstacles, but if we do not learn the associated nonverbal clues, we will remain lost in our interactions and in our attempts to understand the culture. So, language is a set of shared symbols used to create meaning. The relationship between the symbol and the meaning is often arbitrary. There are usually variations within language groups, such as accents, dialects, argots, and slang.
Language allows people to exchange information and abstract ideas, and it is an integral part of identity. Based on the language they use, people are often categorized into groups such as age, gender, and socioeconomic level. And remember, language will put us in different groups.
When we have a common language yes, it enables people to organize and perform collective activities. However, in large countries like the US, people are living different lifestyles and the disparity is vast.
One way of enhancing your intercultural communication competency is to study another language. So, let’s say since the minority population is growing, imagine the government/state makes us learn a second language. What are the benefits from learning a second language?
More employment opportunities, more friends, opportunities to travel and enjoy the host countries more with the language knowledge, access to books, and opportunities of expanding knowledge are just a few.
Do you think immigrants to the US should learn English before they become a citizen? Instead of making them take the civics test (or in addition thereto), should they need to take an English test as well? Knowing the language (English), do you think immigrants will be able to communicate better with the citizens, resulting in less miscommunication-related conflicts? Do you think by learning English and assimilating with the host country would bring mutual understanding between current and new citizens?
Now look at the question for this week: Explain the benefits of learning a second language. Why should US citizens learn a second language? Should immigrants have to learn the majority language before being allowed to become citizens? Why or why not?
Countries that require language proficiency for residency/citizenship (just a sampling of many):AustriaPeople who plan to stay longer than 24 months must also sign an Integration Agreement, a process designed to enhance their German-language skills and ability “to participate in the social, economic and cultural life in Austria.”Permanent residents must live in the country continuously for a period of 15 to 30 years before being eligible to apply for citizenship. If approved, applicants must renounce any other citizenship.GermanyForeign nationals from outside the EU must have lived in Germany for at least five years and demonstrate competency in language and knowledge of the political system and society. Applicants must also demonstrate that they have the ability to earn a living and have contributed to the national pension plan. They must also have proof of suitable accommodation.To become a citizen, applicants must have lived in the country at least eight years (seven, if they’ve passed a competency test) and renounce citizenship in any other country.CanadaAlong with dozens of other countries, Canada has two official languages: English and French.To become a citizen, you need to know just one. You don’t need to be fluent, just conversational enough to make small talk, give directions, use basic grammar, and know your vocab well enough to describe yourself.You’ll send along written documents with your application, but a citizenship officer will make the final call whether your English or French is up to snuff.
New ZealandA minimum English requirement must be met by the Principal applicant, as well as any Non-Principal applicants (i.e., Principal applicant’s partner and any dependent children aged 16 and older)AustraliaThe federal government is keen to introduce English test for migrants to become eligible for acquiring Australian citizenship and Citizenship Minister Alan Tudge has flagged the idea of toughening English-language tests.Minister has stated Australia’s multiculturalism model is at risk unless significant policy intervention addresses the issue of lower integration rates and falling English-language skills.Says current policy settings are no longer adequate, amid emerging ethnic enclaves and falling rates of spoken English.FranceOne of the crucial stages of gaining French citizenship through naturalization is passing the language test, which is known in French as the “Test de connaissance du francais pour l’accès à la nationalité française” (TCF ANF).MexicoIf you are a national of a country not listed by the Secretaria de Relaciones Exteriores (SRE) as Spanish speaking, you must pass a Spanish language test.ThailandThere is a basic Thai language requirement in order to obtain permanent residence, so the prospective applicant should study Thai in order to speak at a level of basic competence. The prospective permanent resident is also subject to an interview and should be prepared to interview in Thai where possible.ChinaMust have basic knowledge befitting a Chinese national, such as an understanding of the Chinese language, traditions, customs, and culture.IndonesiaMust speak the Indonesian language.MalaysiaMust have “an elementary knowledge of the Malay language”. Those applying to become naturalized citizens must have “an adequate knowledge of the Malay language” and have resided in the country for ten of the past twelve years, including the twelve months immediately preceding the application.United KingdomMust meet specified English, Welsh, or Scottish Gaelic language competence standards. Those who pass the Life in the UK test are deemed to meet English language requirements.
Now look at the question for this week: Explain the benefits of learning a second language. Why should US citizens learn a second language? Should immigrants have to learn the majority language before being allowed to become citizens? Why or why not?
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