WRITING TASK 2
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Present a written argument or case to an educated reader with no specialist knowledge.
Write about the following topic:
Several languages are in danger of extinction because they are spoken by very small numbers of people. Some people say that governments should spend public money on saving these languages, while others believe that would be a waste of money. Discuss both of these views and give your opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Sample Answer:
There is no denying that several languages are at risk of disappearing due to their limited number of speakers. This has sparked a debate on whether governments should allocate public funds to preserve these endangered languages. While some argue that it is crucial to protect linguistic diversity, others believe that it would be an unnecessary drain on public resources. In this essay, I will discuss both perspectives and provide my opinion on the matter.
On the one hand, proponents of language preservation argue that every language is a unique part of human culture and heritage. They believe that the extinction of a language represents the loss of valuable knowledge, traditions, and ways of thinking. Furthermore, preserving endangered languages can contribute to the overall enrichment of global linguistic diversity. Advocates for language preservation also argue that it can help to maintain the identity and sense of belonging of minority communities, thereby promoting social cohesion and inclusivity.
On the other hand, critics of language preservation funding argue that it may not be the most efficient use of public money. They contend that the resources allocated to language preservation could be better spent on addressing more pressing societal issues such as poverty, healthcare, or education. Moreover, they argue that the effort to revive endangered languages may ultimately be futile, as language use is ultimately determined by speakers’ choices and needs.
In my opinion, while it is important to acknowledge the value of linguistic diversity and cultural heritage, governments should prioritize the allocation of public funds based on the needs of their citizens. This means that while efforts to preserve endangered languages should not be completely disregarded, they should be balanced with other pressing societal needs. Additionally, it is important to involve the affected communities in the decision-making process and to consider the long-term sustainability of language preservation efforts.
In conclusion, the issue of whether governments should spend public money on saving endangered languages is a complex and multifaceted one. While there are valid arguments on both sides of the debate, a balanced approach that takes into account the needs of all stakeholders is crucial in addressing this issue.
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