13855 Language
IELTS Essay Topic: Studying A Foreign Language Abroad
Example Essay by Jeenn Lee Hsieh
Writing Topic:
>Some people prefer to study a foreign language in the country where that language is spoken [e.g. learn French in France, German in Germany and so on]. They say one can learn the language better and quicker. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Sample Essay:
The majority of people learning a foreign language do not go beyond borders, even though they know very well that they are better able to learn a new language faster where that language is spoken. In general, there is nothing like learning English in England, Australia, Canada or the United States; or likewise, French in France, German in Germany. Nevertheless, one cannot help asking oneself this question: Is it the only way to learn written English along with spoken English?
One good way to learn speaking and listening abilities is getting involved in a real environment where English (for example) is used as the everyday language. It is because that the key to successful spoken language learning is interaction, the importance of which may justify students traveling abroad, thereby exposing themselves to actual interaction with native speakers. In this way, students can develop their functional proficiency, rather than just learning vague or abstract knowledge of grammar or diction. It is easy to imagine that they have to communicate if they want to survive, by doing such things as buying food, finding accommodation and making travel arrangements, among other things. It is therefore understandable that many students with only learning experience of formal classes back home may face a range of difficulties in trying to practice communicating in a foreign language. In short, there are obvious advantages to studying abroad.
The experience of studying written English can be a different story since reading and writing abilities can be obtained almost as effectively and as quickly if one decides to do reading with pleasure and writing with effort, no matter when or where. Therefore, what is more important is the motivation. Without motivation, studying abroad would probably be both labor and money lost. It is amazing that many people who can demonstrate very good abilities in reading and writing as well as listening and speaking in the TOEFL or IELTS exams before actually setting foot in a foreign land, for instance . In other words, not much difference can be made by simply travelling a period of time in an English-speaking country. Interestingly, the experience of learning a foreign language is like learning to sing a song--often it is the signer that counts, not the song.
In sum, it seems that learning a new language abroad is a good choice in case one can afford it, but it should not be considered as the best way to study written English, and certainly not the only way to learn spoken English. Fortunately, there are an increasing number of English-speaking visitors to help, including teachers who teach in countries like China where English is earnestly learned as the second language. The bottom line is that, even before going abroad, one can learn a foreign language well enough, if one's will is strong enough. (Essay created by Jeenn Lee Hsieh)
