Global Language And Communication
Overview
Fewer than one in five people on earth grow up speaking English as a first language, yet it is the language most likely to appear on an airport sign, a scientific journal or a business meeting agenda almost anywhere in the world. Understanding why a small number of languages dominate global communication, while others are gaining ground fast, is central to understanding global citizenship.
In this lesson you will examine why certain languages spread widely, how communications technology has shrunk the world, and how easier travel connects different user groups, tourists, migrants and the global business community, across borders.
Objectives
- Reasons for the widespread use of European languages and increased take up of Chinese and Arabic
- Communications technology, and the shrinking world and its effects on language and communication
- Increased accessibility of travel within and between countries, including an overview of user groups (tourists, migrants and the global business community)
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Lesson Note
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Lesson Evaluation
Congratulations on completing the lesson on Global Language And Communication. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.
You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.
Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.
- European languages such as English, Spanish, French and Portuguese spread widely outside Europe mainly through: A) Modern tourism B) European colonisation C) Machine translation software D) The internet Answer: B
- Which of the following best explains the growing international importance of Arabic? A) It is the official language of the United Nations alone B) It is the liturgical language of Islam and is spoken in economically significant Arabic-speaking states C) It has replaced English as the main business language D) It is only spoken in one country Answer: B
- The term 'shrinking world' describes: A) A decrease in the world's population B) The reduction in practical time and effort needed to communicate or travel between distant places C) A reduction in the number of languages spoken D) A decrease in international trade Answer: B
- Which group is most likely to need to reach a fluent, long-term level of a destination country's language? A) A short-term tourist B) A migrant settling permanently C) A business traveller on a single trip D) An airline passenger in transit Answer: B
- Mandarin Chinese has grown in international importance mainly because of: A) European colonisation of China B) China's rapid economic growth and expanding role in global trade and investment C) A United Nations requirement D) A decline in the use of English Answer: B
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