mother tongue essay assignment

A Summary and Analysis of Amy Tan’s ‘Mother Tongue’

By Dr Oliver Tearle (Loughborough University)

‘Mother Tongue’ is an essay by Amy Tan, an American author who was born to Chinese immigrants in 1952. Tan wrote ‘Mother Tongue’ in 1990, a year after her novel The Joy Luck Club was a runaway success. In the essay, Tan discusses her relationship with language, and how her mother’s influence has shaped her use of English, as well as her attitude to it.

You can read ‘Mother Tongue’ here before proceeding to our summary and analysis of Amy Tan’s essay below.

‘Mother Tongue’: summary

Amy Tan begins her essay by offering her personal opinions on the English language. She recalls a recent talk she gave, when, upon realising her mother was in the audience, she was confronted with the fact that the formal standard English she was using in the public talk was at odds with the way she spoke at home with her mother. She then contrasts this with a moment when she was walking down the street with her mother and she used the more clipped, informal English she naturally uses with her mother, and her husband.

Tan calls this a ‘language of intimacy’. She points out that her mother is intelligent and reads things which Tan herself cannot begin to understand. But many people who hear her mother speak can only partially understand what she is saying, and some even say they can understand nothing of what she says, as if she were speaking pure Chinese to them.

Tan calls this clipped informal language her ‘mother tongue’, because it was the first language she learned and it helped to shape the way she saw the world and made sense of it.

Tan notes the difficulty of finding a term to describe the style of English her mother, as a Chinese immigrant to the United States, speaks. Many of the terms, such as ‘broken’ or ‘limited’, are too negative and imply her English is imperfect.

She acknowledges that when she was growing up, she was ashamed of the way her mother spoke. Her mother, too, was clearly aware of how her use of the language affected how seriously people took her, for she used to get her daughter to phone people and pretend to be ‘Mrs Tan’.

She observes that her mother is treated differently because of the way she speaks. She recounts a time when the doctors at the hospital were unsympathetic towards her mother when they lost the results of the CAT scan they had undertaken on her brain, but as soon as the hospital – at her mother’s insistence – called her daughter, they issued a grovelling apology.

Amy Tan also believes her mother’s English affected her daughter’s school results. Tan acknowledges that, whilst she did well in maths and science, subjects with a single correct answer, she was less adept at English. She struggled with tests which asked students to pick a correct word to fill in the blanks in a sentence because she was distracted by the imaginative and poetic possibilities of other words.

Indeed, Tan conjectures that many Asian American children are probably encouraged to pursue careers in jobs requiring maths and science rather than English for this reason. But because she is rebellious and likes to challenge people’s assumptions about her, Tan bucked this trend. She majored in English at college and began writing as a freelancer.

She began writing fiction in 1985, and after several false starts trying to find her own style and idiom, she began to write with her mother in mind as the ideal reader for her stories. Indeed, her mother read drafts of her work.

And Tan drew on all the Englishes , plural, that she knew: the ‘broken’ English her mother used, the ‘simple’ English Tan used when talking to her mother, the ‘watered-down’ Chinese her mother used, and her mother’s ‘internal’ language which conveyed her passion, intent, imagery, and the nature of her thoughts. When her mother told her that what she had written was easy to read, Tan knew that she had succeeded in her aims as a writer.

‘Mother Tongue’: analysis

The title of Amy Tan’s essay is a pun on the expression ‘mother tongue’, referring to one’s first language. But Tan’s language, or ‘tongue’, has been shaped by her actual mother, whose first language (or mother tongue) was not English, but Chinese.

The different forms of English that mother and daughter speak are also a product of their backgrounds: whilst Tan’s mother is a Chinese immigrant to America, Tan was born in the United States and has grown up, and been educated, in an English-speaking culture.

Much of Tan’s 1989 novel The Joy Luck Club is about daughters and their relationships with their mothers. But Tan’s interest in language, both as a cultural marker and as a way of expressing thought and personality, is also a prevailing theme of the novel.

In this respect, if the parable ‘ Feathers from a Thousand Li Away ’ acts as preface to the novel, ‘Mother Tongue’, in effect, acts as a kind of postscript. It helps us to understand the way Tan approaches and uses language within the stories that make up The Joy Luck Club .

An overarching theme of Tan’s novel is mothers emigrating to America in the hope that their daughters will have better lives than they did. This is a key part of ‘Feathers from a Thousand Li Away’, and it helps us to understand Tan’s conflicted attitude towards her mother’s use of language as explored in ‘Mother Tongue’.

Many of the mothers in The Joy Luck Club , such as Betty St. Clair in ‘The Voice from the Wall’, feel isolated from those around them, never at home in America, and hyper-aware of their outsider status, despite becoming legal permanent citizens in the country. Tan’s autobiographical revelations in ‘Mother Tongue’ show us that her own mother struggled to be taken seriously among Americans, and Tan diagnoses this struggle as a result of her mother’s different way of speaking.

Tan, by contrast, used standard English – what used to be referred to, in loaded phrases, as ‘correct’ or ‘proper’ English – and was thus able to succeed in getting herself, and by extension her mother, taken seriously by others. Language is thus more than just a cultural marker: Tan reveals, in ‘Mother Tongue’, the extent to which it is a tool of power (or, depending on the use, powerlessness), particularly for those from migrant backgrounds.

In this connection, it is noteworthy that Tan chooses to focus on the school tests she undertook before concluding that her mother’s ‘broken’ style of English has been misunderstood – not just literally (by some people who’ve known her), but in terms of the misleading perceptions of her it has led others to formulate.

The class tests at school which reduced English proficiency to an ability to recognise a ‘correct’ answer are thus contrasted with Tan’s resounding final words of ‘Mother Tongue’, which see her seeking to capture the passion of her mother, the ‘nature of her thoughts’, and the imagery she uses: all things which her daughter has clearly inherited a respect for, and which school tests fail to capture or observe.

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Exploring Language and Identity: Amy Tan's "Mother Tongue" and Beyond

• Resources & Preparation
• Instructional Plan
• Related Resources

In the essay “Mother Tongue,” Amy Tan explains that she “began to write stories using all the Englishes I grew up with.” How these “different Englishes” or even a language other than English contribute to identity is a crucial issue for adolescents. In this lesson, students explore this issue by brainstorming the different languages they use in speaking and writing, and when and where these languages are appropriate. They write in their journals about a time when someone made an assumption about them based on their use of language, and share their writing with the class. Students then read and discuss Amy Tan's essay “Mother Tongue.” Finally, they write a literacy narrative describing two different languages they use and when and where they use these languages.

Featured Resources

Discussion Questions for "Mother Tongue" : Have students discuss Amy Tan's essay in small groups, using these discussion questions.

Literacy Narrative Assignment : This handout describes an assignment in which students write a literacy narrative exploring their use of different language in different settings.

From Theory to Practice

NCTE has long held a commitment to the importance of individual student's language choices. In the 1974 Resolution on the Students' Right to Their Own Language , council members "affirm[ed] the students' right to their own language-to the dialect that expresses their family and community identity, the idiolect that expresses their unique personal identity." The Council reaffirmed this resolution in 2003 , "because issues of language variation and education continue to be of major concern in the twenty-first century to educators, educational policymakers, students, parents, and the general public."

Rebecca Wheeler and Rachel Swords assert that: "the child who speaks in a vernacular dialect is not making language errors; instead, she or he is speaking correctly in the language of the home discourse community. Teachers can draw upon the language strengths of urban learners to help students codeswitch-choose the language variety appropriate to the time, place, audience, and communicative purpose. In doing so, we honor linguistic and cultural diversity, all the while fostering students' mastery of the Language of Wider Communication, the de-facto lingua franca of the U.S."

This lesson focuses on ways to investigate the issues of language and identity in the classroom in ways that validate the many languages that students use. To help students gain competence in their ability to choose the right language usage for each situation, explorations of language and identity in the classroom are vital in raising students' awareness of the languages they use and the importance of the decisions that they make as they communicate with others.

Further Reading

Common Core Standards

This resource has been aligned to the Common Core State Standards for states in which they have been adopted. If a state does not appear in the drop-down, CCSS alignments are forthcoming.

State Standards

This lesson has been aligned to standards in the following states. If a state does not appear in the drop-down, standard alignments are not currently available for that state.

NCTE/IRA National Standards for the English Language Arts

• 1. Students read a wide range of print and nonprint texts to build an understanding of texts, of themselves, and of the cultures of the United States and the world; to acquire new information; to respond to the needs and demands of society and the workplace; and for personal fulfillment. Among these texts are fiction and nonfiction, classic and contemporary works.
• 4. Students adjust their use of spoken, written, and visual language (e.g., conventions, style, vocabulary) to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences and for different purposes.
• 9. Students develop an understanding of and respect for diversity in language use, patterns, and dialects across cultures, ethnic groups, geographic regions, and social roles.
• 10. Students whose first language is not English make use of their first language to develop competency in the English language arts and to develop understanding of content across the curriculum.
• 11. Students participate as knowledgeable, reflective, creative, and critical members of a variety of literacy communities.

Materials and Technology

• Copy of "Mother Tongue" by Amy Tan
• Blue pens, Black pens, and pencils (optional)
• Discussion Questions for "Mother Tongue"
• Literacy Narrative Assignment
• Essay Rubric
• Student Self-Assessment

Preparation

• Arrange for copies of the essay "Mother Tongue" by Amy Tan. The essay is widely anthologized. It was originally published in The Threepenny Review in 1990.
• Make an overhead transparency of the Discussion Questions for "Mother Tongue," or arrange for an LCD projector to show the questions to the class.
• Make copies of the Literacy Narrative Assignment , Literacy Narrative Rubric , and Student Self-Assessment .
• Test the Venn Diagram on your computers to familiarize yourself with the tools and ensure that you have the Flash plug-in installed. You can download the plug-in from the technical support page.

Student Objectives

Students will

• develop critical reading strategies.
• discuss and evaluate the impact of language on identity formation and self-esteem of several writers.
• expand their awareness of the role language plays in identity formation.
• write their own literacy narratives.

Session One

What are the different "languages" you use? When and why? Consider both reading and writing, and don't forget about email! If you speak another language, include it (or possibly them if you know more than one).

• Encourage students to read their responses aloud.
• As they do, keep track on the board or on an overhead transparency of the different "languages" they are describing.
• Discuss the interaction of language usage and choice with audience and occasion by focusing on the examples the students have provided.
• For homework, ask students to write a journal entry that describes a time when someone made assumptions or even a judgment (negative or positive) about them based on their language usage (written or spoken). For those who say they've never had such an experience, suggest writing about a situation they've observed involving someone else.

Session Two

• Open the class by asking volunteers to share their journal entries.
• Look for similarities among the experiences students describe, and discuss them as a group. Ask whether they notice stereotypes at work in the situations they describe.
• If students have access to the Internet, introduce Amy Tan by sharing audio and video clips of her talking and reading. Biographical information about Amy Tan can be found at Bookreporter.com .
• Hand out copies of "Mother Tongue," and read the first two paragraphs aloud.
• Discuss why Tan opens with an explanation of what she is not .
• Read the next two paragraphs. Ask students to explain what Tan means by "different Englishes."
• Shift the discussion by asking why Tan speaks a "different English" with her mother than with her husband. Ask students to consider whether doing so is hypocritical.
• Assign the remainder of the essay as reading for homework.

Session Three

• What point is Tan making with the example of her mother and the hospital?
• What point is she making with the example of the stockbroker?
• Tan says that experts believe that a person's "developing language skills are more influenced by peers," yet she thinks that family is more influential, "especially in immigrant families." Do you think family or peers exert more influence on a person's language?
• Why does Tan discuss the SAT and her performance on it?
• Why does she envision her mother as the reader of her novels?
• After about 15 minutes, ask each group to explain their responses to the questions. Encourage them to support their responses with specific reference to Tan's essay.
• Ask them to write notes and ideas in their journals using the Literacy Narrative Assignment . Stress that students are only gathering ideas. They are not creating the polished essay at this point.

Session Four

• Open by discussing the assignment itself. Explain that a literacy narrative tells a specific story about reading or writing. Tan's article is essentially a literacy narrative because it discusses events about language use from her past (whether good or bad) and reflects on how those events influence her writing today.
• If desired, ask students to choose examples from the essay that connect writing from Tan's past to her present.
• Pass out copies of the Essay Rubric , and discuss the required components for the finished paper.
• Discuss the possibilities that students raised in their journal entries.
• To begin developing ideas further, ask students to use the Venn Diagram to map and compare the two "languages" that they will explore in their essays. Ask them to think creatively about the qualities and characteristics of the "languages."
• Allow students time to work on their literacy narratives in class.
• Assign a draft of the literacy narrative as homework; each student should bring his or her draft to the next class session (on a disk if you are working in a computer lab, or a printed copy otherwise).
• Additionally, if you are not working in a computer lab, ask students to bring a pencil, a black pen, and a blue pen to class.

Session Five

• Begin with a discussion of the problems students are encountering with the assignment.
• Brainstorm ways to address one or two of the challenges.
• Remind students of the criteria for the assignment in the Literacy Narrative Essay Rubric . For the peer review, ask students to compare the drafts that they read to the characteristics described in the rubric.
• Each student will read three papers, each written by someone else.
• On the first paper that you read, make your comments with your black ink pen or in bold.
• On the second paper, make your comments with the blue ink pen or in italics.
• On the third paper, make your comments with your pencil or with underlined letters.
• Finally, you'll return to your own essay and read over the comments.
• Arrange the students in small groups of four, having students rotate the drafts among group members as they read and respond. Adjust groupings as needed to accommodate the number of students in your class.
• Once students have read and responded to all the drafts, discuss questions, comments, and concerns students have as they prepare to revise.
• Encourage students to pay particular attention to comments that all of their peer readers agreed upon when reading their drafts.
• For homework, have students create their final, polished draft of the literacy narratives. Collect the papers at the beginning of the next session.
• To explore a more controversial response to language usage, students might read "If Black English Isn't a Language, Then Tell Me, What Is" by African American author James Baldwin. Written before the term "ebonics" came into usage, it is a brief but highly political argument about the link between language and identity and the damage school systems can cause by privileging one language (or dialect) over another. It can be found in the New York Times archives (29 July 1979, page E19).
• Students also might examine a passage from the fiction of Cormac McCarthy, Sandra Cisneros, or another author who includes Spanish in his or her work—without translating it. What is the effect on a reader who does not know Spanish? What might be the purpose of an author making the decision to write whole sections in Spanish?
• To pursue the link between power and language, students might read the poem "Parsley" by Rita Dove. It explores the historical incident in which the Dominical Republic dictator Rafael Trujillo used the pronunciation of the word "parsley" to separate Dominicans who speak Spanish from the persecuted Haitians who speak a French Creole (a topic Edwidge Danticat takes up in her novel The Farming of Bones ).

Student Assessment / Reflections

Observe students for their participation during the exploration and discussion of Tan’s essay and their own language use. In class discussions and conferences, watch for evidence that students are able to describe specific details about their language use. Monitor students’ progress and process as they work on their lilteracy narratives. For formal assessment, use the Literacy Narrative Rubric . Ask students to complete the Student Self-Assessment to reflect on their exploration of language and their literacy narratives.

• Calendar Activities
• Professional Library
• Student Interactives

Students consider the portrayal of Asians in popular culture by exploring images from classic and contemporary films and comparing them to historical and cultural reference materials.

This interactive tool allows students to create Venn diagrams that contain two or three overlapping circles, enabling them to organize their information logically.

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• Kindergarten K

What is a Mother Tongue Essay, and Why do we need to write one?

For high school and college students, writing a mother tongue essay is one of the typical assignments. If you’re stuck and don’t know where to begin or what to leave out, go through our guide, and you’ll know what to do when you’re required to come up with a Mother Tongue Essay.

Mother Tongue: Definition

Depending on the context, the concept of “language” has been given different connotations. We may define language as a set of particular characters and signs understood in a specific communicative setting. However, when we tackle this topic from a more emotional perspective, we see it in a far wider sense.

In all aspects of our everyday lives, our mother tongue is the most commonly used language. The mother tongue is the first language an infant learns while growing up. The term points to the language that we learn through our family, the language we are raised in, and the language that the inhabitants speak in the area where we were raised. Every country has its mother tongue. Culture and customs, as well as our heritage, are reflected in our mother tongue.

We chose to discuss the highlights of Amy Tan’s renowned “Mother Tongue” essay to comprehend better the methods of working on such an article.

What were Amy Tan’s views in her mother tongue essay? Amy Tan’s essay “Mother Tongue” is an excellent example of a mother tongue essay in her famous work, “The Joy Luck Club”. The author’s mother is a Chinese immigrant, and she grew up in California in an Asian-American family. Because she has encountered a variety of languages throughout her lifetime, non-standard English has been the focus of her research. Tan describes how she has used “several Englishes” in various contexts of her life. One of the most critical aspects of your Mother Tongue essay should be how your mother tongue shapes your life. Amy Tan believes that a person’s decisions and actions in life are determined by the language they speak. Unfortunately, Amy Tan’s mother didn’t speak excellent English. And it had an impact on her life. Tan shares examples of a missing CAT scan, terrible treatment in departmental shops, and taking IQ exams, SATs, and other aptitude tests to back up her claim that language plays a crucial role in society’s acceptance of immigrants. According to the author, just because someone isn’t a native English speaker or their language isn’t flawless doesn’t indicate they aren’t well-educated or bright. Amy understood that her mother’s English wasn’t exactly the best. But, on the other hand, she found her mother’s English to be incredibly natural. However, she did not employ the kinds of English she had mastered at a class when she was with her mother at home. On the other hand, Amy boasts about her mother’s intelligence, claiming that she can read Forbes articles and all the books written by Shirley MacLaine with ease. Because language is one of the essential values in the family, it plays a vital role. Tan discusses how tough it is to live with parents who do not speak English fluently. Amy describes how she frequently had to assist her parents with translation to make their life simpler. Amy’s phone discussion with her mother’s stockbroker in New York was particularly remarkable. Thanks to her impeccable English, she immediately addressed the difficulty that her mother couldn’t handle in a “broken” language. The following are the critical ideas of Amy Tan’s mother tongue essay

• First, Amy’s parents found it challenging to adjust to a foreign linguistic setting without having a flawless grasp of the language.
• The significance of linguistic variety in achieving goals: Amy shows how a stronger understanding of the English language might assist her parents in tackling challenging life issues on their own, using the instance of her parents.
• Concerns of language and cultural recognition: linguistic prejudice exists in our society, and Amy’s family, like many others, continues to face bias based on their ethnicity. Nevertheless, the value of our thoughts is not diminished by the language we speak.

Examples of topics for your mother tongue essay

Upon first look, an essay about the mother tongue may appear to be a simple one. It may, however, be interpreted from various perspectives. Therefore, we’ve put up a selection of essay themes that are interesting to write about.

• In bilingual households, how mother tongue is used.
• The distinction between mother tongue and first language.
• Is English displacing other countries’ local tongues?
• What are your opinions on Amy Tan’s “Mother Tongue” essay?
• The cornerstone of national identity is the native language.
• Mother tongue used by immigrants.
• As a way of reaching objectives, what is the need for perfect English?
• What are the benefits of getting educated in your mother tongue?

Example of a mother tongue essay

My Mother Tongue’s Influence My native tongue is English, and I am a Native American. It is the language in which I think and communicate my opinions on any subject. It’s something I’ve known since I was a child. Furthermore, I first felt it when my mother spoke to me and sang before I was born. And I am sure that my native tongue is perhaps the most powerful language on the planet.

Knowing English, in my opinion, is a huge benefit for everyone. The strength of language, in my opinion, rests in its potential. The language of opportunity is good English. In addition, poor or weak English diminishes one’s likelihood of succeeding in a variety of areas. Why do I believe this? English has invaded the world like no other language in human history as a result of contemporary technologies. All nations acknowledge its distinctive role.

English is becoming the international economy’s and corporate environment’s primary language. Workers converse and interact in English regardless of whether the multinational firm is based in Sweden or Italy.

In a globalized society, English is the language of international communication since everyone speaks English, whether Chinese, Italians, Spaniards, or Germans. English serves as an ethnically neutral language in many nations where ethnic conflicts exist.

I have many more justifications to back up my position. Nonetheless, it is tough to debate here since my language possesses a power that no other tongue in the world possesses. That’s something I’m proud of.

How to write a mother tongue essay?

The mother tongue essay presents your opinions on a specific subject. It does not, however, imply that these are the only valid interpretations of the issue.

This kind of writing has a predefined framework that you can utilize.

Introduction : You need to begin by making the reader want to read the material all the way through. Try adding a famous quotation, a jest, or even a compelling fact. It is necessary to develop a thesis statement – the essay’s core concept – in the introduction.

Begin with a remarkable or fascinating fact about language, for example. Then, make a list of reasons why you are proud of your mother language, as well as some intriguing facts about it. It may well be helpful to compare several aspects of various languages. Here are some excellent introduction examples:

• “Today, three times as many people speak English as those who do not speak it natively. English is the mother tongue of 500 million inhabitants on the earth, and it is the second language of another billion.”
• “One may infer a person’s education, cultural level, and overall growth by the way they talk. Treating language haphazardly equates to thinking haphazardly, making it imprecise and generally incorrect. Mother tongue is a cognitive tool: it represents man’s knowledge, regard for others, and orderliness in the fullest sense.”
• “Mandarin Chinese is perhaps the most widely spoken language in the world with over 885 million speakers. In the international arena, however, English has become the most extensively spoken language in the economic and political domains.”

A Good Thesis Statement The thesis statement expresses your primary point of view, a “tough” issue that you answer in the body of the paper. So, once you’ve finished your narrative, have a look at the following:

Is it true that I answered the question? Have I made my point?

If you don’t know what to write about for your thesis, you can utilize ours:

• English is increasingly replacing other languages.
• Language is a vital instrument for maintaining culture and the nation overall and a form of communication.
• The ability to communicate in one’s native tongue is an essential aspect of one’s personality.
• For the nation’s cultural conservation, the mother tongue should be conserved in any manner possible.
• Their competency determines the cultural attitude in their mother tongue.
• The population’s social adaptability is aided using their mother tongue.
• With mother’s milk, we inherit the native language.
• An infant would only have a single native language, even in bilingual homes.

Main Body Express your ideas in the form of brief theses and back them up with evidence in this section. The length of your thesis will determine the number of paragraphs in the main body of your essay. You should be able to express yourself clearly and professionally. Make use of your own experiences and appropriate illustrations to back it up.

Write on the strength of your language, for example: “I feel that English provides numerous chances for international students.” And back up your claim with the following assertion: “The greater a student’s command of the English language, the quicker he would be able to learn the subjects.” Finally, recall whether you had any international students in class and talk about their language learning experiences.

The following concept can be vibrant: “English is the most widely spoken language in travel and amusement. English is the language that helps you to blend into any situation, no matter where you go. It gives you confidence in English.”

Conclusion Outline your views and provide a precise response to the research question. Reiterate your viewpoint. As a result, I feel my native language is the most powerful language on the planet. It is a widely accepted language in this digital era, and studying English is inextricably tied to personal development.

It’s also vital to think about the following things when composing a mother tongue essay :

• The topic should be emphasized in the introduction and conclusion (the problem should be stated in the introduction, and the author’s perspective should be presented in conclusion).
• Selecting paragraphs is essential to create a logical relationship between them (and maintain the work’s integrity).
• Mother tongue essays are known for their emotionality, expressiveness, and artistic quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do we need to write a mother tongue essay.

In college or high school, students are often assigned to write a mother tongue essay.

What is mother tongue?

The mother tongue is the native language that one learns while growing up. It is the first language that an infant learns.

What makes Amy Tan’s mother tongue essay so popular?

In her mother tongue essay, Amy Tan outlines her mother’s challenges in adapting to a new language and how the former helped her mother with several aspects of her life. The essay is written from a personal perspective and successfully underlines the issues of cultural and linguistic identification, making it an excellent example of such an essay..

What is the structure of a mother tongue essay?

Like any other essay, a mother tongue essay has an introduction, a thesis statement, body and conclusion.

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Mother Tongue Essay in 100, 150, 200, 300, 400, & 500 Words

Table of Contents

Mother Tongue Essay in 100 Words

Mother tongue essay.

Mother tongue, also known as a native language, holds immense significance in a person’s life. It is the language in which individuals form their first thoughts, communicate with their parents, and embrace their cultural heritage. This descriptive essay explores the essence of the mother tongue and its impact on one’s identity and communication skills. The melodious tones, unique vocabulary, and rich cultural nuances of a mother tongue create an undeniable emotional connection. It unites individuals with their roots, allowing them to express their true selves. Moreover, mastering one’s mother tongue strengthens communication skills and facilitates a deeper understanding of one’s heritage. The power of the mother tongue lies in its ability to forge connections, preserve traditions, and cultivate a strong sense of identity.

Mother Tongue Essay in 150 Words

Mother tongue.

Mother tongue is a term used to describe a person’s first language, the language they learn from their parents and use to communicate with their family and community. It is a powerful tool that shapes one’s identity and provides a connection to their cultural heritage.

In my case, my mother tongue is English. It is the language I grew up speaking, reading, and writing. I have vivid memories of my mother patiently teaching me how to pronounce words and construct sentences. English has become second nature to me, enabling the effortless expression of my thoughts and emotions.

However, I recognize the importance of mother tongues from diverse linguistic backgrounds. Each language carries a rich history, unique expressions, and cultural nuances. It is through one’s mother tongue that traditions and values are passed down from generation to generation.

Mastering multiple languages can be an incredible asset, allowing individuals to navigate multicultural environments and build bridges between different communities. It is essential that we celebrate and preserve the beauty of mother tongues, as they are a fundamental part of our collective human experience.

Mother Tongue Essay in 200 Words

Mother tongue is the language that a person learns from their mother and uses as their primary means of communication. It is a language that is ingrained in one’s identity and has a deep connection to their cultural heritage.

For many individuals, their mother tongue is the language spoken in their home country. It represents their roots and serves as a reminder of their family’s history. The words and phrases shared in the mother tongue carry a sense of familiarity and comfort, linking people to their cultural community.

Beyond its personal significance, the mother tongue also plays a crucial role in shaping an individual’s cognitive development. Language is a tool for thinking, and when children learn their mother tongue, they acquire not only the ability to communicate but also a unique way of perceiving the world.

Despite its importance, the mother tongue can often be overshadowed by dominant languages in education and society. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize and celebrate the richness of various mother tongues, promoting them as valuable assets rather than obstacles to learning.

In conclusion, the mother tongue is more than just a language; it is a representation of one’s cultural heritage, personal identity, and cognitive capabilities. Embracing and preserving mother tongues is essential for fostering diversity and understanding in our globalized world.

Mother Tongue Essay in 300 Words

The term “mother tongue” encompasses the language we acquire naturally from our parents and use to communicate with our family and community. For many of us, it is the first language we learn, shaping both our experiences and identities. Our mother tongue is not merely a mode of communication; it encapsulates our cultural heritage, traditions, and memories.

Being fluent in our mother tongue allows us to effortlessly express our thoughts and emotions. It is the language in which we first learn to articulate ourselves and formulate our ideas. The nuances, idioms, and expressions embedded in our mother tongue provide a deeper level of understanding about our cultural heritage, values, and beliefs.

Moreover, our mother tongue serves as a bridge connecting us with our familial roots. It connects us to our grandparents, parents, and ancestors who passed down their knowledge, wisdom, and stories in this language through generations. Through our mother tongue, we gain a sense of belonging and a stronger connection to our family and community.

Furthermore, our mother tongue enables us to comprehend and appreciate literature, art, and music originating from our culture. It is often in our mother tongue that we find poetry, proverbs, and songs that touch our hearts and resonate with our deepest emotions.

In conclusion, our mother tongue is an integral part of our identity, history, and heritage. It provides a means of communication, a source of cultural understanding, and a connection to our past. Preserving and nurturing our mother tongue is essential, as it keeps our traditions alive and ensures the transmission of knowledge and wisdom from one generation to the next.

Mother Tongue Essay in 400 Words

Mother tongue: a beautiful tapestry of words.

The concept of a mother tongue is, in many ways, like a vibrant tapestry, intricately woven over generations, representing our cultural heritage and identity. It is the language we first learn from our mothers, the language that nurtures our thoughts, and enables us to communicate our deepest emotions. In this descriptive essay, we will explore the power and beauty of the mother tongue, and how it shapes our understanding of the world around us.

A mother tongue is far more than just a means of communication. It is a rich reservoir of history and tradition, encapsulating the essence of a community’s collective experiences. Each language carries within it a unique cultural perspective, offering insights into lifestyle, values, and beliefs. For instance, in Chinese, the mother tongue of my ancestors, the concept of “Ren” emphasizes kindness and compassion, guiding individuals to foster harmonious relationships. Such nuanced cultural nuances are embedded deep within the mother tongue, reflecting the rich tapestry of human experiences.

Furthermore, the mother tongue serves as a conduit for familial bonds and traditions. It connects generations, transferring wisdom and knowledge from one to another. I recall sitting at my grandmother’s feet, listening to her eloquently narrate tales of our family’s history, dreams, and struggles, all in our native language. Through the mother tongue, these stories took on a life of their own, revealing a profound connection to our roots, and cultivating a strong sense of belonging.

Additionally, the mother tongue showcases the linguistic versatility and complexity of our world. Each language has its own rhythm, vocabulary, and idiomatic expressions. From the click sounds of the Xhosa language to the melodic cadence of Italian, every tongue weaves a distinct melody. The mother tongue captures the essence of a culture, expressing the joys, sorrows, and peculiarities of life in a way that transcends mere words. It evokes emotions that cannot be completely captured by another language, rendering each personal experience that much more vivid.

However, the mother tongue is not just a relic of the past. In an increasingly globalized world, it evolves and adapts, reflecting the changing times and embracing modern aspects. It assimilates new words, cultural influences, and concepts, forging a transition from traditional to contemporary. This amalgam of old and new breathes life into the language, enabling future generations to carry forward the torch of cultural heritage.

In conclusion, the mother tongue is a treasure trove of emotion, heritage, and identity. It conveys not only words but also the essence of a community’s values and traditions. It binds generations together and provides a unique lens through which to view the world. As individuals, we must recognize the importance of preserving and cherishing our mother tongues, for they are an integral part of our identities and allow us to weave together the colorful tapestry of human existence.

Mother Tongue Essay in 540 Words

Language is a fundamental aspect of human communication, acting as a medium through which we express our thoughts, emotions, ideas, and beliefs. It shapes our perspectives, influences our interactions, and forms the very foundation of our identities. In the grand tapestry of languages spoken across the globe, the concept of “mother tongue” holds a special place. This essay aims to explore the essence of the mother tongue, its significance in our lives, and its impact on our understanding of the world.

The mother tongue, also known as the first language or native language, refers to the language a person acquires naturally from birth or early childhood. It is the language spoken by their parents, family, and community, shaping their early memories and shaping their understanding of reality. For the majority of people, the mother tongue is synonymous with the language of their country or region. However, in multicultural societies, individuals may have multiple mother tongues due to their diverse linguistic backgrounds.

One of the most compelling aspects of the mother tongue lies in its ability to connect us to our roots and cultural heritage. It serves as a vessel that carries the vibrant traditions, customs, and folklore of our ancestors. Through our mother tongue, we gain access to the rich tapestry of our cultural identity, deepening our understanding of our own history and fostering a sense of belonging.

Moreover, proficiency and fluency in one’s mother tongue are instrumental in building strong interpersonal and familial relationships. The mother tongue enables individuals to express their thoughts and emotions with nuanced precision, fostering closer connections with their loved ones. It provides a sense of comfort and familiarity, enabling individuals to communicate freely without fear of misinterpretation or misunderstanding.

Conversely, the loss or neglect of one’s mother tongue can lead to a profound sense of disconnection and an identity crisis. Many individuals living in culturally diverse societies face the challenge of maintaining their mother tongue amidst the pressures to adopt the dominant language. As a consequence, a sense of alienation can arise, as one is unable to fully express their authentic self or connect deeply with their cultural heritage.

Furthermore, the mother tongue intertwines language and thought, shaping our cognitive processes, reasoning capabilities, and decision-making skills. A study by linguist Benjamin Lee Whorf proposed that language influences how we perceive and categorize the world around us. This theory, known as linguistic relativity or the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis, suggests that different languages provide unique perspectives on reality, forcing speakers to perceive and conceptualize the world in distinct ways. Thus, the mother tongue not only impacts our personal lives but also molds our collective understanding of the world.

In conclusion, the mother tongue holds immense significance in our lives, serving as the cradle of our cultural identity and shaping our perception of the world. It connects us to our ancestral traditions, strengthens familial bonds, and fosters a sense of belonging. The mother tongue is not just a means of communication; it is a gateway to our roots, enabling us to embrace diversity, preserve our heritage, and forge deeper connections with those around us. Let us celebrate the beauty and power of our mother tongues, for they are the languages of the heart and soul.

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Mother Tongue

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Welcome to the LitCharts study guide on Amy Tan's Mother Tongue . Created by the original team behind SparkNotes, LitCharts are the world's best literature guides.

Mother Tongue: Introduction

Mother tongue: plot summary, mother tongue: detailed summary & analysis, mother tongue: themes, mother tongue: quotes, mother tongue: characters, mother tongue: terms, mother tongue: symbols, mother tongue: theme wheel, brief biography of amy tan.

Historical Context of Mother Tongue

Other books related to mother tongue.

• Full Title: Mother Tongue
• When Written: 1989
• When Published: 1990
• Literary Period: Contemporary
• Genre: Essay, Memoir
• Setting: Oakland, California; San Francisco, California; New York City, New York
• Climax: Tan’s mother attends one of her talks about The Joy Luck Club .
• Antagonist: Societal ignorance and bias
• Point of View: First Person

Extra Credit for Mother Tongue

Sagwa. Tan’s 1994 children’s book, The Chinese Siamese Cat , was adapted for television and broadcast by PBS as “Sagwa The Chinese Siamese Cat.” First aired in 2001, the series follows Sagwa, the protagonist kitten, on her adventures as a palace cat in historic China.

Music. Tan’s talents aren’t limited to pen and paper. A member of the band “Rock Bottom Remainders” since 1993, Tan has performed with fellow authors Stephen King, Dave Barry, and Scott Turow.

Home — Essay Samples — Literature — Mother Tongue — “Mother Tongue” by Amy Tan

"Mother Tongue" by Amy Tan: a Reflection

• Categories: Amy Tan Mother Tongue

About this sample

Words: 931 |

Published: Jul 10, 2019

Words: 931 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

The essay explores Amy Tan's article "Mother Tongue," focusing on the author's intent and the themes presented in the piece. The central argument of the essay is that Amy Tan's goal in the article is to challenge the notion that individuals who do not speak "perfect" English are not intellectual. Tan's personal experiences growing up with her mother, who spoke a simplified form of English, serve as a backdrop for this argument.

The essay discusses how Tan effectively conveys her message by highlighting key points from the article. These points include the way Tan communicated with her mother, who was well-informed and engaged in activities like reading Forbes reports and conversing with her stockbroker, despite her non-standard English. Tan also explores her own evolving perception of her mother's language, ultimately recognizing its richness and clarity.

Furthermore, the essay emphasizes that Tan's ability to embrace various forms of English and incorporate them into her writing allowed her to reach a broader audience and even make her work more accessible to her mother.

Mother Tongue: response essay

Works cited:.

• Fisher, J. (2012). Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. Random House.
• Gladwell, M. (2008). Outliers: The Story of Success. Back Bay Books.
• Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional Intelligence. Bantam Books.
• Kaplan, R. M., & Kaplan, R. (2019). The Power of Positive Thinking. Penguin.
• Lambert, L. S. (2018). The Mindful Path to Self-Compassion: Freeing Yourself from Destructive Thoughts and Emotions. Guilford Press.
• Purcell, M. (2018). 5-minute Daily Meditations: Instant Wisdom, Clarity, and Calm. Rockridge Press.
• Seligman, M. E. P. (2011). Flourish: A Visionary New Understanding of Happiness and Well-being. Free Press.
• Sinek, S. (2017). Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action. Portfolio.
• Tolle, E. (2010). The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment. New World Library.
• Williams, M., & Penman, D. (2012). Mindfulness: An Eight-Week Plan for Finding Peace in a Frantic World. Rodale Books.

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Mother Tongue

44 pages • 1 hour read

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.

Essay Analysis

Key Figures

Symbols & Motifs

Literary Devices

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Amy Tan includes two anecdotes about her mother’s interactions with other people: Du Yusong and her stockbroker. What impact do these anecdotes have on the essay as a whole? Explore using specific evidence from the essay.

“Mother Tongue” switches between addressing Tan’s mother’s issues with English and Tan’s own difficulties with the language. Is Tan implying that she is more like or unlike her mother? Provide evidence to support your analysis.

An important aspect of Tan’s position in the essay, which she repeats several times, is that she is a writer. How does Tan’s identity as a writer impact her relationship with English? Develop several supporting arguments to discuss.

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What is a Mother Tongue Essay?

For high school and college students, composing a mother tongue essay is one of the average tasks. If you’re lost and don’t know where to start, for sure to forget about, go through our aide, and you’ll realise what to do when you’re needed to concoct a Mother Tongue Essay. 

Mother Tongue: Definition 

Contingent upon the specific situation, the idea of “language” has been given various implications. We might characterise language as a bunch of specific characters and signs comprehended in a particular open setting. Notwithstanding, when we tackle this point from a more passionate viewpoint, we see it in a far more extensive sense. 

Our mother tongue is the most commonly utilised language in all sections of our ordinary day-to-day existence. The mother tongue is the primary language a newborn child learns while growing up. The term focuses on the language that we learn through our family, the language we are brought up in, and the language that the occupants talk in the space where we were raised. Each nation has its mother tongue. Culture and customs, just as our legacy, is reflected in our mother tongue. 

We decided to examine the highlights of Amy Tan’s famous “Mother Tongue” essay to appreciate better the techniques for dealing with such an article. 

What were Amy Tan’s perspectives in her mother tongue essay? 

Amy Tan’s essay “Mother Tongue” illustrates a mother tongue essay in her well-known work, “The Joy Luck Club”. 

The creator’s mother is a Chinese settler, and she experienced childhood in California in an Asian-American family. Since she has experienced various languages throughout her lifetime, non-standard English has been the focal point of her exploration. Tan portrays how she has utilised “a few Englishes” in different settings of her life. 

One of the essential parts of your Mother Tongue essay ought to be how your mother tongue shapes your life. Amy Tan trusts that an individual’s choices and activities in life are controlled by the language they talk. Tragically, Amy Tan’s mother didn’t speak excellent English. What’s more, it affected her life. Tan offers instances of a missing CAT examination, horrendous treatment in departmental shops, and taking IQ tests, SATs, and other fitness tests to back up her case that language assumes an urgent part in the public eye’s acknowledgement of outsiders. 

As per the creator, since somebody is certainly not a native English speaker or their language isn’t faultless doesn’t show they aren’t accomplished or brilliant. Amy comprehended that her mother’s English wasn’t by and large-excellent. In any case, then again, she viewed her mother’s English as unbelievably usual. Nonetheless, she didn’t utilise the sorts of English she had dominated at a class when she was with her mother at home. Then again, Amy gloats about her mother’s insight, guaranteeing that she can peruse Forbes articles and every one of the books composed by Shirley MacLaine quickly. 

Since language is one of the fundamental qualities in the family, it assumes an indispensable part. Tan talks about how it is so difficult to live with guardians who don’t communicate in English smoothly. Amy portrays how she now and again needed to help her folks with interpretation to simplify their life. Amy’s telephone conversation with her mother’s stockbroker in New York was especially momentous. On account of her perfect English, she promptly tended to the trouble her mother couldn’t deal with in a “broken” language. 

Coming up next are the primary thoughts of Amy Tan’s mother tongue essay. 

• In the first place, Amy’s folks thought that it was trying to conform to an unfamiliar etymological setting without having an immaculate handle of the language. 
• The meaning of phonetic assortment in accomplishing objectives: Amy shows how a more grounded English language comprehension may help her folks handle testing life issues alone, utilising her folks’ case. 
• Worries of language and social acknowledgement: etymological bias exists in our general public, and Amy’s family, in the same way as others, keeps on confronting inclination dependent on their nationality. Nevertheless, the worth of our contemplations isn’t reduced by the language we talk. 

Illustration of a mother tongue essay 

My mother tongue’s influence .

My mother tongue is English, and I am a Regional American. It is the language where I think and allows my viewpoints regarding any matter. It’s something I’ve understood since I was a youngster. Furthermore, I initially felt it when my mother addressed me and sang before I was conceived. What’s more, I am sure that my native tongue is maybe the most remarkable language on earth. 

Knowing English, as I would like to think, is a colossal advantage for everybody. The strength of language, as I would like to think, rests in its latent capacity. The language of chance is acceptable English. Likewise, poor or frail English decreases one’s probability of prevailing in an assortment of regions. For what reason do I trust this? English has attacked the world like no other language in humanity’s experiences because of contemporary advancements. All countries recognise their specific job. 

English is turning into the global economy’s and professional workplace’s essential language. Labourers speak and collaborate in English whether or not the worldwide firm is situated in Sweden or Italy. 

In a globalised society, English is the language of worldwide correspondence since everybody communicates in English, whether Chinese, Italians, Spaniards or Germans. English fills in as an ethnically impartial language in numerous countries where ethnic struggles exist. 

I have a lot more supports to back up my position. Nonetheless, it is challenging to banter here since my language has a power that no other tongue on the planet has. That is something I’m glad for. 

How to write a mother tongue essay? 

The mother tongue essay presents your viewpoints on a particular subject. It doesn’t, in any case, infer that these are the main legitimate translations of the issue. 

This composing has a predefined system that you can use. 

Introduction:  You want to start by making the peruser need to peruse the material right through. Have a go at adding a popular citation, a joke, or even a convincing truth. It is essential to foster a thesis statement – the essay’s centre idea – in the introduction. 

Start with a surprising or exciting reality about language, for instance. Then, make a rundown of justifications for why you are glad for your mother language, just as some charming realities about it. It likely could be helpful to analyse a few parts of different languages. Here are some phenomenal introduction models: 

• “Today, three fold the number of individuals communicate in English as the people who don’t talk it natively. English is the mother tongue of 500 million occupants on the earth, and it is the second language of another billion.” 
• “One might deduce an individual’s schooling, social level, and by and large development by the manner in which they talk. Treating language aimlessly likens to thinking indiscriminately, making it loose and by and large inaccurate. Mother tongue is an intellectual apparatus: it addresses man’s information, respect for others, and precision in the fullest sense.” 
• “Mandarin Chinese is maybe the most broadly communicated in language on the planet with more than 885 million speakers. In the global field, in any case, English has turned into the most broadly communicated in language in the monetary and political spaces.” 

A Good Thesis Statement 

The thesis statement communicates your essential perspective, an “intense” issue that you reply to in the body of the paper. In this way, whenever you’ve completed your account, examine the accompanying: 

Is it genuine that I responded to the inquiry? Have I come to a meaningful conclusion? 

On the off chance that you don’t have a clue what to write about for your thesis, you can use our own: 

• English is progressively supplanting other languages. 
• Language is an essential instrument for keeping up with culture and the country, generally speaking, and a type of correspondence. 
• The capacity to impart in one’s native tongue is a fundamental part of one’s character. 
• For the country’s social preservation, the mother tongue ought to be monitored in any way conceivable. 
• Their skill decides the social disposition in their mother tongue. 
• The populace’s social versatility is supported by utilising their mother tongue. 
• With mother’s milk, we acquire the native language. 
• A baby would have a solitary native language, even in bilingual homes. 

Principle Body 

Express your thoughts as brief theses and back them up with proof in this segment. The length of your thesis will decide the number of passages in principle body of your essay. You ought to have the opportunity to write your thoughts obviously and expertly. Utilise your encounters and proper delineations to back it up. 

Write on the depth of your language, for instance: “I feel that English gives various opportunities to worldwide students.” And back up your case with the accompanying declaration: “The more noteworthy an understudy’s order of the English language, the faster he would have the option to become familiar with the subjects.” Finally, review whether you had any global students in class and talk about their language learning encounters. 

The accompanying idea can be dynamic: “English is the most generally communicated in language in movement and delight. English is the language that assists you with mixing into any circumstance, regardless of where you go. It gives you trust in English.” 

Conclusion 

Layout your perspectives and give an exact reaction to the examination question. Emphasise your perspective. Thus, I feel my native language is the most impressive language on earth. It is a generally acknowledged language in this advanced period, and concentrating on English is inseparably attached to self-improvement. 

Contemplate the accompanying things when forming a mother tongue essay: 

• The point should be accentuated in the introduction and conclusion (the issue should be expressed in the introduction, and the creator’s viewpoint should be introduced in conclusion). 
• Choosing sections is fundamental to making a legitimate connection (and keeping up with the work’s respectability). 
• Mother tongue essays are known for their expressiveness, creative quality and emotionality. 

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Mother Tongue Essays

Have no time? Stuck with ideas? We have collected a lot of interesting and useful Mother Tongue essay topics for you in one place to help you quickly and accurately complete your college assignment! Check out our essay examples on Mother Tongue and you will surely find something to your liking!

Mother Tongue, by Amy Tan I am not a scholar of English or literature. I cannot give you much more than personal opinions on the English language and its variations in this country or others. I am a writer. And by that definition, I am someone who has always loved language. I am fascinated by […]

“Mother Tongue,” explains that different types of English affect someone’s response and attitude. Because Tan wrote this essay about her mother, she mainly describes the responses her mother gets with her broken English. Tan’ s purpose is to show how broken English speakers are dissuaded from perfecting it and h owe they are looked down […]

Not all people who speak the English language speak it the same way. A language can be subdivided into any number of dialects which each vary in some way from the parent English language. “Mother Tongue,” an article based on the power of language; without standard language skills, one is identified as an outsider, often […]

It was about time for me to read another non-fiction book. This is an irreverant and often-humorous look at the history and quirks of the English language, covering both British and American English and the distinctions between them (and touching briefly on Australian as well). While it does touch on some of the origins and […]

In the text “Mother Tongue,” the writer discusses her struggle with her unique language skills and their connection to her mother. She explains how she would modify her English when speaking to her mother compared to others, acknowledging that English was not her strongest subject. Additionally, the passage explores the challenges faced by her mother […]

Mother tongue usually means the language first learned by a person, but for Amy Tan it has a special meaning, limited language which is the language her mother speaks. Tan feel so deeply about her “mother tongue” because the limited language effects that many people misunderstand her mother. The way Tan’s mother speaks effects the […]

Rhetorical Analysis of “Mother Tongue” written by Amy Tan “So easy to read”(p. 4). Amy Tan ends her essay, “Mother Tongue” with this short and even grammatically wrong sentence. She tells us this mother’s brief review is a proof of success of her writing. Why does she think that easiness is an essence of her […]

Introduction: The essays “Mother Tongue” and “A Hanging” were written by well-known writers in the world of literature. Both essays share the characteristic of being well-crafted works, each unique in its perspective and target audience. In “Mother Tongue” by Amy Tan, the essay explores the use of language in people’s lives. Tan presents various situations […]

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Importance Of Mother Tongue (Essay Sample)

Mother tongue is the initial language one learns as a baby; the language one grows up knowing, which is also known as the native language. A child first comprehends what is around them through the language they hear their mother communicating in from before they are born and throughout their lives. Mother tongue is valuable due to several reasons.

Mother tongue is crucial in framing the thinking and emotions of people. A language plays an essential part in the life of a human being. The language facilitates a comprehension of the surrounding, learning of concepts and attaining of various skills. A child who ably learns their mother tongue from the initial parts of their lives, amass extensive language skills that help them to express themselves and developing their thinking capacity. Additionally, this language cultivates confidence and a sense of self-worth to a child in learning other things.

Learning in school accentuates with the use of mother tongue. Mother tongue is a powerful tool in advancing the learning in people. In childhood, when children spend their time with parents, they develop communication skills, skills that become paramount in school settings, for them to participate in class. Also, when parents tell stories and discuss matters with their children, it develops their terminology and concepts. Thus, when learning is conducted, the children effortlessly follow and understand, resulting in educational success.

Mother tongue develops a strong foundation for learning additional languages. Children are capable of learning multiple languages while young. Therefore, having a strong foundation in their mother’s language equips them the skills to learn other languages. Children achieve this by transferring the different structure of a language to other languages. Grammar that develops when a child learns their native language is easily transferable, whereby; a child can easily guess the meaning or read between the meanings of words in different languages.

Mother language develops a personal and cultural identity. Personal identity emerges out of a person’s understanding of themselves, their surroundings and their history. An individual hears their native language first when in the womb, and it subconsciously begins shaping their thoughts and emotions. Nelson Mandela said, “Talk to a person in their language, and it goes to their heart.” Thus, it becomes the source of instance connection with family, society, culture, and identity. Its strong foundation creates a strong accepting of oneself through an understanding of social origin and character in the most basic and natural manner. Moreover, by upholding of the different languages spoken in society, cultural identity arises that flows undoubtedly in other aspects of an individual’s life.

The mother tongue creates job opportunities. Increased immigration and population growth of international students who speak other languages other than English characterize the society. Thus, to facilitate effective communication and understanding of each other, different sectors of the economy, such as schools, health and in businesses, necessitates the need for an understanding of different languages. Consequently, the necessity for persons competent in different languages arises in the job market. Understanding and fluency in various native dialects hence give individuals an upper hand in becoming language specialist, thus, gainfully employed.

Mother tongue elicits the development of strong family bonds. In various households, particularly those of immigrants, some family members such as grandparents and parents do not understand English commonly utilized in different countries. Thus, when a child grows up with particular emphasis on speaking in a language other than their mother tongue, results in a linguistic gap with some family members, consequencing in an emotional disconnect with other family members.

The knowledge of the native language is a crucial aspect of a person’s life. It not only stimulates their confidence but also creates awareness of their individual and cultural identity, facilitates learning and adoption of other languages, creates job opportunities and keeps families tightly knit.

Mother tongue assignment

• Published: January 19, 2022
• Updated: January 19, 2022
• Language: English
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You can use this pre-designed survey questionnaire for your study. Still, you can modify this instrument if necessary. 5. Distribute the survey questionnaire to at least 30 people who use SMS. 6. Analyze the data and report the data in terms of frequency distribution (use percentage) 7. Interpret the outputs of your data analysis. The results of your interpretation will become your findings. You can use these findings to support your arguments and to conclude your paper, whether you agree or disagree with the critic that “ SMS is corrupting our language”. 8.

Follow the format of a research paper as in Topic 9. 9. You can use tables, pie charts, bar graphs and histograms to illustrate your data analysis. 10. Make sure you provide references at the end of the research paper. Follow the correct format of writing references (Section 9. 12, Topic 9, and follow APA style, for example, http://www. liu. edu/cwis/cwp/library/workshop/citapa. htm) 11. Write you own title for the paper. 12. Provide a cover page and a table of content SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE SMS PRACTICES IN MALAYSIA *(Instrument prepared by Supyan Hussin, 2008)

A. BACKGOUND INFORMATION Instruction: Circle one only 1. Age: a. 15-20b. 21-25 c. 26-30d. 31-35 e. 36-40 f. more than 40 years old. (Circle one) 2. Ethnic:………………………………… Your mother tongue:…………………………. 3. Gender: Male Female (Circle one) 4. Status: a. Studyingb. Workingc. Bothd. Not Applicable (Circle one) B. SMS ACTIVITIES Instruction: We highly appreciate it if you could provide us some feedback on this quick survey. Please respond to the following statements by circling the appropriate option in the box.

Do not write your name. Thank you for your cooperation. | Do you have a mobile phone (mobile phone)? | Yes | No | Not Applicable | | Do you SMS? | Yes | No | Not Applicable | | When you used SMS, did you shorten up the words, abbreviate the words or | Yes | No | Not Applicable | | chunk the words? | | | | | Did you shorten up Bahasa Melayu words in your SMS? Yes | No | Not Applicable | | Did you shorten up Mother tongue words in SMS? | Yes | No | Not Applicable | | Did you shorten up English words in SMS? | Yes | No | Not Applicable | | Did you SMS in other language(s)? | Yes | No | Not Applicable | | If Yes, name the language (s)………………………. | | | | | Did you mix up more than one language in your SMS? Yes | No | Not Applicable | | a. If Yes, name the language(s)…………………………… | | | | | Will SMS help to revive your mother tongue language? | Yes | No | Not Applicable | C. SMS ABBREVIATIONS Instruction: How would you shorten up the following words in SMS? Or How would you SMS the following expressions? | Expressions | Bahasa | English | | How are you? | | | Good morning | | | | I will call you | | | | Breakfast | | | | I love you | | | | Do you want to come with me? | | | He had an accident last night. | | | D. Agree or Disagree: Instruction: Circle one only. Do you think shortening up words in SMS will corrupt your language? Yes or No. Optional for respondents to answer. Why did you say YES? In what way SMS corrupt the language? Why did you say NO? Please provide answers in point forms. Use the back of the page to write your responses

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