Compare the advantages and disadvantages of the ways of learning a foreign language.

Write about the following topic:

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Sample answer

The question of how to learn a foreign language has become increasingly important in recent years as the business has become more international. Although there are many effective ways, l am convinced that living in a country where that language is spoken is the most efficient way of learning.

Traditionally, people have learned languages as part of a large group in a classroom. This has the advantage of providing many opportunities to practise what you learn with several different people. In addition, the fees for this form of education are usually reasonable since many people are taught at once. However, the group size means more demands are placed on the teacher’s time. Students may not get the individual attention they require to improve.

The amount of individual attention you receive is undoubtedly an advantage of working with a private tutor. Also, the student can work at a pace that is comfortable for them. On the other hand, working with a private tutor can lack the social element, which is crucial in learning to communicate well in a foreign language. It can also prove to be beyond the means of many people.

The most natural way to acquire a language is to go where it is spoken. Not only is every social interaction a chance to practise, but you are also exposed to the natural, living language. As well as that, you can acquire a natural accent by imitating the people around you. This is not to say, of course, that there are no drawbacks. Many people suffer from culture shock away from home, and it can be tough to integrate into a foreign culture.

In conclusion, I would argue that the advantages of going to another country to learn far outweigh the disadvantages, making it the best option.

(312 words)