What does the final sentence criticise?
Pupils in English-speaking countries often ask why they should learn a foreign language when so many people speak English. The question deserves a better answer than 'it will help you get a job', which holds for only a few. A stronger answer is that learning a language is an education in how language works. It forces a learner to notice grammar, to hear sounds that his own language does not use, and to realise that other people divide the world differently. It also makes possible relationships and understanding that translation cannot provide. These are benefits even for a pupil who never speaks the language after school. What the argument does not support is the present practice of teaching a language for a few lessons a week for years and with poor results. If it is worth teaching, it is worth teaching well.
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Teaching that gives limited time and poor results over many years
- Step 1: The preceding sentence describes teaching a language a few lessons a week for years with poor results.
- Step 2: The final sentence says if it is worth teaching, it is worth teaching well.
Answer
Teaching that gives limited time and poor results over many years.
Why not the others: The author does not criticise teaching languages, English teaching, job-linked teaching or too many lessons.
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