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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapter 16 The Future of English.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. According to the author, some words are formed out of __________________.
(a) mistakes
(b) other words
(c) misunderstandings
(d) guttural noises

2. From what do most languages derive?
(a) Indo-European language family
(b) Sign language
(c) South America
(d) Cro-Magnon utterances

3. What does the author feel there is a lack of among English native speakers?
(a) To learn new words each year
(b) To read documents in Old English
(c) To teach English to foreigners
(d) To learn other languages

4. According to the author what is the most striking example of a word with multiple meanings?
(a) Fine
(b) Track
(c) Snap
(d) Dance

5. Why can translations between countries be considered difficult?
(a) People are conditioned to communicate within their specific culture.
(b) People are basically too lazy to learn something new
(c) Adults are too hard to train in a new language
(d) Countries do not teach children who are more amenable to new language

Short Answer Questions

1. According to the author, what is easy or difficult depending on the point of view?

2. How do some linguists think that children learn their languages?

3. Why are the speakers in #140 becoming a minority?

4. In Chapter 4, the author traces the development of English in what country?

5. Physical communication strategies include proximity between speakers, hand gestures and ______________________.

(see the answer key)

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