Reference: The Economist
Language is a sensitive issue in India, where each state has its own language, and linguistic pride runs deep. Some activists have even set themselves on fire rather than ＿＿(1)＿＿be forced to speak a language unfamiliar to them. Southern states, in particular, resist what they perceive as northern attempts to impose Hindi. Recently, the government introduced a policy requiring young students to learn Hindi as a third language, but it was quickly reversed, highlighting the challenges of imposing linguistic unity. Despite these obstacles, language dynamics in India have gradually shifted. More Indians now share a common tongue than before. A study by Leena Bhattacharya and S. Chandrasekhar, which＿＿(2)＿＿ analyzed data from the 2011 census, found that the probability of two random Indians speaking a common language rose from one in five in 1971 to one in four in 2011. Two main factors contributed to this shift: the spread of Hindi and the rise of English. Hindi pop culture, especially from Mumbai, has played＿＿(3)＿＿ a significant role＿＿(3)＿＿, aided by the use of the Roman alphabet for Hindi words online and in advertisements. Additionally＿＿(4)＿＿, migration from northern Hindi-speaking regions to the prosperous south has increased the number of Hindi speakers in places like Tamil Nadu. At the same time, English has become the language of economic mobility＿＿(5)＿＿. Parents across all social classes prioritize English education for their children. Social media platforms, streaming services, and business communications are predominantly in English, reinforcing its status as a bridge language. A sensible government would recognize English as an Indian language, given its historical roots and widespread use. Promoting both English and regional languages could bridge linguistic divides and enhance India's global competitiveness.
- (A) except for (B) according to (C)rather than (D) more than
- (A) , which (B) which (C), that (D) where
- (A) strike; balance (B) pose; threat (C) take; notice (D)played;role
- (A) As a result (B)Additionally (C) Instead (D)Nevertheless
- (A) capability (B) heritage (C)explosion (D)mobility
Reading comprehension
1. What is the passage mainly about?
(A) India is a country that only uses English in daily life.
(B) India has many regional languages, but more people now share a common tongue.
(C) Southern India strongly opposes all language policies from the north.
(D) Indian parents prefer English education for their children.
that
2. Which of the following statements is NOT true?
(A) English is seen by many Indians as a way to improve their lives.
(B) People in southern India are reluctant to accept Hindi.
(C) All regional people in India are willing to speak Hindi.
(D) Hindi pop culture has contributed to the spread of a common language.
- Where is this article most likely to be found?
(A) In a health report.
(B) In a history textbook.
(C) In a technology journal
(D) In the current affairs section of a news magazine.
- Please fill in the blanks with the correct words and make grammatical changes if necessary. (There should be only one word in each blank)
English is a __________ language in India as people use it in social media platforms, streaming services, and business communication. Due to these reasons, it _________English's status as a bridge language.
English is a __________ language in India as people use it in social media platforms, streaming services, and in business communication. Due to these reasons, it _________ English’s status as a bridge language.
Answer: dominant, reinforces
Which phrase on the forum discussion carries the meaning of “building the ability to understand and share the feelings of others”?（
5. Which phrase in the passage means “to overcome differences caused by language”? Write the exact phrase from the passage
Answer: transcend language barriers
