SUREN A.

PATUAL

BSED- ENGLISH II

PRINCIPLES AND THEORIES OF LANGUAGE ACQUISITION

LANGUAGE IS LINK TO CULTURE

In the beginning, words and certain languages are derived from the sounds that
was created by the environment, it took time and later on found language. That then
people started to communicate using a specific language that helps them understand
each other. We know that language is a powerful tool to unite and build relationship
among other people with different traditions and practices. According to the article,
Language is a system of symbols and rules that is used for meaningful
communication.

In the article, it includes statement that would help us understand how language is
connected to culture. Language is inextricably linked with identity and in order to save
identity, we need to attempt to save our language. Language as we know it is not what
defines the culture, but the result of the cause which is the language is what defines
culture. Language is the blueprint of a culture and it is the country's very accurate
mirror. Culture can be productively learnt through interaction by the use of language
however there be certain rules decided, those rules later on become a habit of behavior
and pattern, a practice, a tradition, a culture. Hantrais (1989) puts forth the idea that
culture is the beliefs and practices governing the life of a society for which a particular
language is the vehicle of expression.

This brings us to an interesting point brought up by Emmitt and Pollock (1997), who
argue that even though people are brought up under similar behavioural backgrounds
or cultural situations but however speak different languages, their world view may be
very different. Indeed, the relationship between the two aspect is really important. A
culture would not work if there is no language working on that culture. Language will
make the culture interact among its people. Also, culture will give identity to a language
that is being used by its members. Language greatly affects the communication
because without language it would be hard or impossible to communicate across
cultures or across boundaries. Language is something that binds a culture to the other
culture. Consequently, language is the soul of communication.

Language is the most expressive instrument for culture, even more than music
and figurative arts, because its rules and laws and references are clearly established.
The language is an expression of its culture. It is tightly integrated with the cultural
mentality, and often, the direct translation of the words and sentences not only could
be misleading, but it can even be culturally inappropriate.

When learning and speaking a language, it is essential to take the same time and
effort to learn the cultures associated with the language in order to communicate in
that language effectively. Very often, languages are the first identity marks of any
given culture, so they are of prime importance in defining who we are.

With regards to the recommendations that was found in the article, I found it good
and useful and a better approach into language teaching with linking to each culture.
The presented strategies are vital on teaching language to the learners while also
making used of the available technologies and ICT integrations. The following are the
strategies ; Strategy I: Provide Culturally Learning Materials Strategy II: Using
Common Proverbs as Transferred Tool Strategy III: Apply the Role Play as
Sociocultural Approach Strategy IV: Encourage Students Search and Present through
the Culture Capsules Strategy V: View Students as Cultural Resources Strategy VI:
Use Computer Technology to Help Student Gain Cultural Information . In my view, all of
the recommendations are useful in language teaching, however, it matters only on how
the facilitator handle its learners.

As a future language teacher, this article helps me a lot to teach language in the
field of teaching. The context allows me to realize that all language aspects are really
linked to culture. While reading the article, I am thinking of any instances in the learning
environment like; what if I can handle students that are really diverse in culture and in
personalities and attitude. Despite thinking of negative thought, I found out that, we
need to study and master first the language before teaching it to other. Mastery of the
language will give you better performance as a teacher. If you learn to appreciate the
language, you are passionate enough to teach the language and make it appreciated by
others by sharing thoughts and experiences. As a future language teacher, we must
inspire our learners to love and use the language appropriately and use language as a
tool for unity and understanding.

With that, In improving one's culture, language is the tool that describes the
totality of a culture. It means that through language culture may be recognized,
appreciated and valued by others. Language is the portal where everyone can look for
the significance of a culture. Thus, it also preserves a culture for the future
generations.

Different languages will create different limitations, therefore a people who share
a culture but speak different languages, will have different world views. Still, language
is rooted in culture and culture is reflected and passed on by language from one
generation to the next (Emmitt & Pollock 1997).
References

From the provided article :

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References

Gumperz, J. (Ed.). (1982). Language and social identity. New York: Cambridge
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Joseph, J. E. (2004). Language and identity: National, ethnic, religious. New York:
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Handbook of research in second languge taeaching and learning. London: Lawrence