On the video, Jay Walker explains why so many people around the world are trying to learn English. He talks about the world’s manias, and learning English is one of them. According to Mr. Walker, English is studied everywhere, in Latin America, India, South-East Asia and, most of all, in China, where this language is studied in the third grade by law. That’s why China would become soon the largest English-speaking country. Learning English represents the opportunity to get a better life. In the exam that determines the Chinese students’ future, 25% of their grade is based on English. The intensity to learn this language is unimaginable but, is learning English a good or a bad mania? English is the second most spoken language in the world. Our native language is our life, but with English we can be part of a wider conversation, a global conversation where the most important decisions are made. That is why English represents hope for a better future. A common language to solve common problems.
Answer the following questions based on the video:
According to Jay Walker, why is English considered a “mania”?
a) Because it is only spoken in a few countries.
b) Because millions of people are learning it with extreme dedication.
c) Because it is replacing all other languages.
d) Because it is easy to learn.
Answer: b) Because millions of people are learning it with extreme dedication.
Why are students in China so determined to learn English?
a) It is required to get a passport.
b) It helps them travel abroad for free.
c) It is necessary to pass a test that determines their future opportunities.
d) Their parents force them to learn it.
Answer: c) It is necessary to pass a test that determines their future opportunities.