Speaking Questions
Learning Languages

H: stands for a higher-level answer and L: means a lower-level answer.

What is the most interesting aspect of learning English?

H: As I see it, both learning the systems of a language and honing your skills are compelling. However, with this in mind, it is the tangible sense of advancement in English that I take most pleasure in.

L: For me, learning the English vocabulary is the most exciting part. It’s amazing, for example, to learn the origins of words and idioms and find out that some words collocate while others don’t.

Why is English important?

H: The first reason is that across-the-board global communication and business transactions are carried out in English. Besides, English is used in areas frequented by tourists. Therefore, a great number of people are eager to acquire the necessary language skills in order to familiarize themselves with other cultures.

L: In my opinion that’s because you usually need to know English in order to get a well-paid job. Secondly, English is spoken in most countries. So people learn it in order to travel.

What is the attitude of learning foreign languages in your country?

H: As I see it, foreign languages, notably English, are in high demand in Russia. Statistically, language specialists form the overwhelming majority among jobs. Yet, because of the increasing demand they barely manage to cope with the flow of learners.

L: I think more and more people are eager to study foreign languages nowadays, particularly English. That’s because travelling has become easier and people are eager to explore new countries, for which speaking at least in English is needed.

Is it possible to use your own language much in other countries?

H: Generally speaking, Armenian, which is my mother tongue, is spoken only within the borders of Armenia and in Armenian communities worldwide. So, unless you find yourself in either of these settings, you are highly unlikely to need Armenian. What’s more, most Armenians know at least one other language, which renders the use of their native language in other countries needless.

L: Yes, Russian is spoken, or at least understood in all post-Soviet Union countries: Bulgaria, Armenia, Ukraine, you name it. I have also noticed that more and more foreigners want to learn Russian.

 How easy is it for you to improve or keep up your English?

H: So seamlessly has English become connected with my daily routine, that I can barely imagine a day without dealing with English: either tutoring or studying myself. What I do is usually get engrossed in my study books at least an hour day and help others to achieve their study goals in English. So, in this way, I keep my language alive and kicking.

L: Considering my tight schedule I find it hard to find a spare minute for my English. However, sometimes I get some English practice by watching a film, reading a magazine article or chatting with my study-mates. 

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