Page 4 - PowerE-L05-E

Lesson 1

Studying English in Korea

More and more Koreans are realizing the
value of studying English these days. It’s the

international language of commerce and trade,

and of general purpose communication. Being
practical people, Koreans want to learn the
language, in order to survive in this competitive

world. But they also study it because it’s an

interesting language, and the typical Korean is
hungry for knowledge. So many parents are sending their kids to language

schools as early as possible, believing that if their kids study harder, then they
will get a head start over the others when they look for a job. Some are even

sending their kids to English speaking countries in the hope that they would
absorb the language. But many people disagree to letting a small child be ex-

posed to English before he masters the Korean language. They argue that al-

though these children can speak English so well, they can’t speak Korean as
good as a good Korean should.

Comprehension

1. What is the value of studying English?
2. What is the reason why many people disagree on exposing a
child to English?

Questions

1. How exactly do we study English? When should we study it?
2. Who should teach it? What are the methods of teaching English?

Vocabulary & Expressions
realizing: to grasp or understand clearly.
practical: adapted or designed for actual use; useful
typical: having or showing the usual characteristics.
absorb: assimilate or take in; take up mentally.
expose: a formal exposition of facts.
head start: An early start that confers an advantage.

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