IELTS writing task2: language

IELTS writing task 2

Living in a country where you have to speak a foreign language can cause severe social problems as well as practical problems.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

my answer:

Most countries only have one official language; therefore the foreigners have to communicate using words they are unfamiliar with. Some people believe that these people would face severe social and practical problems. This argument may be true.

It is undeniable that one’s social life can be severely affected while living in an environment where speaking the indigenous languages is required. Language is the key to communicating and socialising. People utilise words to express their feelings and emotions, which make them understood by each other. Without the ability to hear or pronounce accurately, people may find it hard to participate in social activities where the conversation is an absolute necessity. As a result, they may gradually be isolated by the communities. For instance, many Chinese who live in western countries are suffering being excluded and marginalised from local cultural and social activities.

Having to use a different language in some real-life scenarios also brings about distinctive practical problems. For example, when eating out at local restaurants, some foreigners may fall into trouble placing an order as the menu can be full of obscure words. Unlike authentic citizens who seem to born with the ability to speak their language, foreigners can hardly change the roles of non-native speakers. This means that writing or reading with a second language is a considerable hurdle to live abroad. As a result, these foreigners are easy to come up against the practical problems such as shopping, learning or even watching a movie.

In conclusion, I am convinced that serious social and practical issues are inevitable for those who live overseas, being obliged to speak the local language.