‘ Think Globally! Act Locally!’ Over million people speak English as a first or second language, which makes it the second most spoken language of the world (after Mandarin). It is the official language of countries. Unit- - globally - - - Reading a.
Read the following essay on the Growth of English in India. . English plays a vital role in increasing opportunities around the world, it provides access to the information with which individuals can learn and develop and it provides access to the networks which are vital in building and maintaining economic links. Perhaps more importantly, it provides a common language to share knowledge and ideas and to create the kind of relationships which go beyond a simple deal or contract.
It enables people to explore cultural differences and to create the kind of trust and understanding which is vital in negotiating and agreeing to our common future. . English has become essential for international communication. Economic growth means that more jobs require English; the expansion of education means that English is needed by more people for studying; and for a growing, globalized, urban middle class, English plays a greater role in both their work and personal lives.
. A quarter of lower primary school students are now first-generation learners who have little support from the family and community and must rely for their learning on what happens in school. A minimum proficiency level in English is increasingly regarded as an entrance requirement for University. Therefore, there is a growing need for learners to begin in primary school, where they learn the basics of the language, then develop English as a language of study in secondary and higher secondary school.
Another objective for introducing English into the basic curriculum is because it has become a global lingua franca, which will be useful for all students, especially for those who get jobs in the services sector. “The time has come for us to teach our people English as a language in schools.” – National Knowledge Commission . . The globalization of knowledge is contributing