importance of learning mother tongue essay

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The Power of Mother Tongue: Its Impact on Language Learning and Understanding.

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Essay on Importance of Mother Tongue

Students are often asked to write an essay on Importance of Mother Tongue in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

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100 Words Essay on Importance of Mother Tongue

Introduction.

Mother tongue is the first language we learn. It is our identity, expressing our culture and values.

Connection with Culture

Our mother tongue connects us to our roots. It carries the traditions and customs of our ancestors, keeping our culture alive.

Emotional Bond

Speaking in our mother tongue creates a sense of belonging. It strengthens our emotional bond with family and community.

Learning Abilities

Studies show that children who learn in their mother tongue develop better cognitive skills. It also aids in learning other languages.

In conclusion, the mother tongue is crucial. It shapes our identity, connects us to our culture, and enhances learning.

250 Words Essay on Importance of Mother Tongue

The mother tongue, the language learned from birth, is a vital tool that shapes our thought processes, emotions, and perceptions. It has a profound influence on cognitive development and identity formation.

Cognitive Development

The mother tongue is the cornerstone of cognitive development. It aids in the comprehension of complex concepts and the development of critical thinking skills. Studies suggest that children who receive early education in their mother tongue demonstrate better cognitive flexibility, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.

Identity Formation

The mother tongue is intrinsically tied to a person’s cultural identity. It carries the traditions, customs, and collective wisdom of a community. Preserving and using one’s mother tongue helps maintain cultural diversity and fosters a sense of belonging.

Language and Education

Education in the mother tongue is crucial for academic success. It enables students to grasp complex ideas more effectively, resulting in better academic performance. UNESCO’s advocacy for mother tongue-based education reflects its importance in promoting inclusive and quality education.

In conclusion, the importance of the mother tongue cannot be overstated. It is a fundamental part of our identity, a catalyst for cognitive development, and a key to academic success. Recognizing and promoting the use of the mother tongue is crucial for sustaining linguistic diversity and fostering inclusive societies.

500 Words Essay on Importance of Mother Tongue

Language is a fundamental aspect of human life. It is a tool for communication, a means of expressing thoughts, emotions, and ideas, and a vehicle for cultural transmission. Among all languages, the mother tongue holds a unique place. It is the first language a child learns from their parents or community, and it forms the basis for their cognitive, social, and emotional development. This essay will delve into the importance of the mother tongue, especially in the context of education, cultural identity, and social integration.

The Mother Tongue and Cognitive Development

The mother tongue plays a critical role in cognitive development. It is through this language that children first make sense of their world. Research shows that children who receive early education in their mother tongue demonstrate better cognitive abilities than those who are educated in a second language. The reason is simple: understanding and expressing complex ideas is easier in one’s native language, which allows for more profound comprehension and cognitive development.

Preserving Cultural Identity

The mother tongue is more than a tool for communication; it is a symbol of cultural identity. It carries the traditions, values, and beliefs of a community, serving as a link between individuals and their cultural heritage. By promoting the use of the mother tongue, we ensure the preservation of diverse cultures and contribute to the richness of global cultural heritage.

Social Integration and Inclusivity

Promoting the use of mother tongue languages also fosters social integration and inclusivity. In multilingual societies, language can often serve as a barrier, causing marginalization of certain communities. By acknowledging and valuing all languages, we can create more inclusive societies where everyone feels valued and heard.

The Mother Tongue in Education

The role of the mother tongue in education cannot be overstated. UNESCO promotes mother tongue-based multilingual education, recognizing its benefits in improving learning outcomes. Children taught in their mother tongue are more likely to engage in the learning process, understand complex concepts, and perform better acadically. Moreover, it reduces dropout rates, as children feel more comfortable and confident in a learning environment that respects and acknowledges their language.

In conclusion, the mother tongue is of paramount importance in cognitive development, preserving cultural identity, promoting social integration, and enhancing educational outcomes. As we move towards an increasingly globalized world, it is crucial to remember the value of our linguistic roots. We must promote multilingualism and mother tongue education to create a world that is not only diverse but also inclusive and respectful of all cultures and languages. In doing so, we can ensure that every child, regardless of their linguistic background, has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

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Why mother tongue education holds the key to unlocking every child's potential, the transformative role of learning in children’s native language..

Imagine a world where the first words you learn aren't just sounds, but keys unlocking understanding, confidence, and a boundless love for learning. This is the promise of mother tongue education, often met with skepticism due to the misconception that it's not "aspirational" enough. But is this truly the case? Let's delve deeper and discover why embracing a child's mother tongue in education holds immense potential, weaving together threads of cultural pride, cognitive development, and a future brimming with possibilities.

For many children, especially in tribal areas, classrooms and language of instruction feel foreign, creating an invisible wall between them and knowledge. Studies reveal the emotional toll, with children struggling, losing confidence, and their inherent curiosity fading. This is where the power of mother tongue education shines. When a child learns in their familiar language, the world opens up. Concepts transform from abstract notions into relatable experiences, igniting a spark of understanding and a sense of "I can do this!"

The belief that mother tongue education lacks ambition stems from equating global success with a single dominant language. This overlooks the power and beauty of multilingualism, and the profound impact on a child's cognitive and emotional development.

A Bridge to Understanding:

When children learn in mother tongue, they navigate knowledge with confidence and ease. Concepts become clearer, ideas flow freely, and the joy of discovery amplifies. Imagine a tribal child understanding math through their own language, promoting a sense of belonging and active participation.

Building a Strong Foundation:

Studies have consistently shown that children who receive education in their mother tongue develop stronger cognitive skills, particularly in critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. This solid foundation lays the groundwork for future academic success, allowing them to not only grasp complex subjects but also excel in other languages they may encounter later.

Boosting Confidence and Self-Esteem:

Beyond academic benefits, mother tongue education fosters a sense of self-worth and cultural identity. When a child expresses themselves confidently in their native language, they radiate self-assurance and a deep connection to their heritage. This intrinsic motivation fuels their desire to learn, propelling them forward on their educational journey.

Embracing Diversity:

India's linguistic landscape, with over 22 official languages and countless dialects, is rich and diverse. Embracing this diversity through mother tongue education celebrates each language's cultural heritage, creating an equitable and inclusive system that values all children's unique identities.

Challenges and Opportunities:

Implementing mother tongue education effectively requires a concerted effort. The sheer number of languages spoken in India necessitates careful planning, resource allocation, and teacher training. Additionally, addressing the misconception that fluency in a dominant language is essential for success requires a shift in mindset, both within the educational system and society at large.

However, these challenges are not impossible. The National Education Policy 2020 and initiatives like UNICEF's Multilingual Education programs offer a clear path forward. Already, we see success stories unfolding: Children in Chhattisgarh are thriving, their confidence soaring as they learn in their native Halbi language. In Jharkhand, five tribal languages are being used to weave magic, bridging hearts and minds through stories and songs. Rajasthan is mapping its linguistic landscape, paving the way for a brighter future with Multilingual Education. These examples showcase the empowering potential of mother tongue education. By working together with communities, stakeholders, and technology, we can unlock this potential and transform the lives of millions of children.

The Future is Multilingual:

Imagine a future where every child, regardless of their background, can access quality education in their mother tongue. A future where classrooms resonate with the diverse melodies of India's languages, fostering a love for learning and a celebration of cultural richness. This is the future we can create by embracing mother tongue education, not as a limitation, but as a powerful tool to empower children, unlock their potential, and build a brighter future for all.

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Publication

Mother Tongue Matters: Local Language as a Key to Effective Learning

Several concerns converge on the issue of using local or minority languages in formal education. One of these has to do with increasing awareness of the value of the world's linguistic and cultural diversity. Another concern has to do with the commitment of the world's nations to the goals of Education for All (EFA) and the limited likelihood that these goals will be realized by 2015 or, indeed, at all. A third concern, related to the second, is clear at local and national levels when communities, parents, local education officers and national authorities recognize that the longstanding language-in-education policies they have been relying on to usher in economic and social progress have simply not worked.

Each of these concerns can be addressed in some measure by explicitly including local languages in formal education systems. The research evidence today clearly shows that using the leaners' mother tongue is crucial to effective learning. Indeed, some educationists have argued that the only countries likely to achieve EFA are those where the language of instruction is the learners' mother tongue. However, the prevalence of globalization and democratic ideals demonstrates that students must be proficient in international and reginal languages to gain access to wider society and to participate meaningfully in their world. 

2007, 48p. (ED.2007/WS/56 REV.)

#MotherTongue #MotherLanguage #InclusiveEducation #Equity&InclusionInEducation

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The Significance of Language: “Mother Tongue” Argumentative Essay

Introduction, language: significance and effects, importance of language: the tool that can unite and isolate, language as a necessity, importance of language in literature & communication, works cited.

This essay examines the importance of language in literature, communication, and culture in general. Language, identity, and power have an interrelationship that has generated debate and discourses that affect not only an individual but also the broader community from where he comes. In this research paper, we will explore the relationship between language and identity. Using Amy Tan’s “Mother Tongue”, we will look at the significance of language and how it affects the lives of people in their communities.

Reading this story, it comes out clearly that the tongue affects the lives of individuals. That’s how language defines who we are. Therefore, it plays a role in his or her choices and the lifestyle he or she lives. People use language to view human life from different perspectives.

In this story, Amy explores how the language she learned in classroom affected her life in different ways. She is a daughter to immigrant parents; her mother is a smart woman. Amy is a source of communication between her mother and those who don’t understand her. Here, Amy has used this story to emphasize that someone is not less intelligent just because he or she can not speak perfect English, like those who are native speakers.

It is rare to get two people who speak the same language, even those who think they do so, fail to notice the variations in their speech because they are used to it. Amy is of Chinese descent, and therefore, language played a significant role in her family as she struggled to fit into the American society with a mother who used “limited English” (Tan 78).

This story reflects the lives of many Americans who are natural citizens of the United States. I am sure there are many people out there who have parents with their way of speaking and comprehension of the English language, as did Amy.

This fact does not reduce the intelligence of such parents. Still, they are forced to depend on their children for translations during communications. Sometimes it makes children ashamed by their parents, just as Amy was when she joined others to describe her mother’s English as ‘Broken “or “Fractured” (Tan 78).

Language is exceptional, not just for Amy and immigrants in foreign lands, but for all of us. Speech brings people close to their families in special ways. Amy agrees with me saying that language “can evoke an emotion, a visual image, a complex idea, or a simple truth” (Tan 76).(Tan 76).

Imagine a situation when you wake up one day and realize that you have no voice and, therefore, can not communicate with those around you. That’s when you will understand how large the importance of mother tongue is. Speechlessness means that you are not able to express yourself, communicate, or participate in what goes on in your world. Language involves combining specific words in a particular order.

This depends on different people where you can find people using the same words but in a separate order. What is important is that so long as they can communicate, then that order is important to them. Language, therefore, helps in empowering people and helping them establish and define their identity.

There is no doubt that through speech, people are bound together as one community. However, it can also alienate individuals in a community.

Sometimes people use language to label others as outsiders. People use language to form stereotypes of others. For instance, in this story, Amy tells us that she has often been asked why there aren’t many Asian Americans in American literature. We also learn that there are very few Asian Americans who do creative writing. The answer to these questions lies in the formation of stereotypes.

Many Asian Americans are known to do well in sciences and mathematics than in English. Their English, as Amy says, is also described as “broken” or “limited”. It means that their teachers use these stereotypes to steer them away from writing. They encourage them to take mathematics and sciences courses just as they did to Amy. Stereotyping, in essence, is wrong (Zeng 10).

Language does more than just articulating a simple truth; the way one commands language also matters a lot. We have just learned that without being able to speak, an individual will be voiceless, but having an imperfect language makes others see one as incomplete. However, those who are fluent in the standard language are seen to be superior to others. It is illustrated in “mother tongue” when Amy tells us the community treated her mother. She says: “People in department stores, at banks, and at restaurants did not take her seriously, did not give her good service, pretended not to understand her, or even acted as if they did not hear her.” (Tan 78)

Those people were not respectful to Amy’s mother because she spoke English that was simple, which they disparagingly termed as “broken” or “fractured” (Tan 78).

This reflects what happens in many communities in the world. When people lack the standard skills of a language, they become outsiders and, therefore, are discriminated by those who enjoy the standard language skills in their communities.

Reading through this story, one gets to understand that acquiring a specific language does not only enable one to be accepted in a community; it also helps in determining one’s individuality. The experience that an individual goes through with language goes a long way in shaping his or her self identity.

This is illustrated in this story clearly when Amy tells us about the different Englishes she applies in her daily communication. We see that to communicate with her family, Amy uses the simple form of English. She calls the one her mother uses as broken English, and however, when interacting with people in her personal life, Amy uses a more sophisticated version of the English language.

Bond explains further that both accommodation and affirmation can occur to the same content, in other words, there can be different effects language happening to the same type of content (Chen & Bond, p.399). She confesses that there were instances in her life when she was embarrassed by the English her mother used.

However, as she continued to grow, she came to understand how important the role of English was to her. She says in this story that she realized that her mother’s English was perfectly clear; it was actually her native language.

This means that it was this language that helped her make sense of what goes around her. This realization makes her wince whenever she calls her mother’s English as “broken” or “fractured”. She does not think that her mother’s English needs any fixing. To her, it is whole and sound, and therefore terming it broken or fractured when she uses it to communicate with her mum looks unfair (Tan 77).

Towards the end of this story, Amy tells us that it doesn’t matter what type of English you use, what matters is that you can communicate. The different Englishes in her life shaped her into what she later become, a writer, much to her critics’ disapproval that she couldn’t make a good writer. Therefore, the role and importance of language in literature is not as straightforward as it might seem.

It is an encouragement to those who are in the same circumstances as Amy that even if they find it hard to speak perfect English, they should never back down from giving their point of view. We have seen that despite her broken English, Amy’s mother helped her to understand English better.

It is her mother who encouraged her to become a writer. People have different mother tongues that they were taught when young, but as individuals grow, they develop different Englishes which they use as circumstances direct.

The language that an individual uses at work is not the same he uses at home or with friends. Language should be seen as a tool for social improvement, through which many people of different backgrounds come together in a cohesive coexistence (Feng 159).

This essay analyzed the importance of language using Amy Tan’s “Mother Tongue”. To summarize, Tan’s story tells us that the main purpose of language is to enable people to express themselves and also be in a position to share the expression with others. That’s the sphere where the significance of language is undoubted. It doesn’t matter what form of the language one uses, so long as it is used to express oneself and others understand the expression, then no one is justified to discriminate against it no matter how broken or fractured the language.

Tan’s mother managed to express herself with people in her life using her Broken English; it is this same broken English that shaped Tan into what she is today. Had her mother stooped to intimidation, probably Tan wouldn’t have grown up to become a writer.

It is a person’s point of view that matters; therefore, people should not be intimidated by those who think they know the standard language from giving their points of view.

Chen, Sylvia & Bond, Michael. “Explaining language priming effects: Further evidence for ethnic affirmation among Chinese-English bilinguals.” Journal of language and social psychology 26.1 (2007): 398-406.

Feng, Hui. “Different languages, different cultures, different language ideologies, different linguistic models.” Journal of multicultural discourses 4.2 (2009): 151-164. Print.

Tan Amy (1990). “ Mother Tongue .” Three penny Review: 76-80. Print.

Zeng, Li. “Diasporic Self, Cultural Other: Negotiating Ethnicity through Transformation in the Fiction of Tan and Kingston.” Language and Literature XXVIII (2003): 1-15. Print.

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The Importance Of Mother Tongue

The beauty of the importance of mother tongue could have never been better expressed than by the great Nelson Mandela when he said,"If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart."

A substantial spectrum of people worldwide is of the erroneous impression that mother tongue denotes only the language that an individual learns from their mother; rather, it is the speaker's dominant and home language which is foundational to the learning process. It is not only the first language according to the time of acquisition, but the first with regard to its importance and speaker's ability to master its linguistic and communicative aspects. The mother tongue as a matter of fact, defines a person’s thoughts. In this  write-up, 'mother tongue' will be used  interchangeably with 'indigenous' and 'vernacular' languages, in the broader context of ubuntu and value of the society at large.

At the expeditious rate at which urbanisation and the development of technology is occurring, it is beyond the shadow of doubt that tons of people globally are losing their understanding on the importance and the immeasurable impact of vernacular languages in their lives.

Children are most familiar with their mother tongue, as it is the language they speak at home. This language, if taught at schools, makes understanding better and learning easier. This because children enjoy more when they are taught in their mother tongue. They enjoy school more and feel more comfortable being surrounded by pupil and teachers speaking a familiar language. They gain confidence in themselves and surety about picking up new concepts with ease. This actually exponentially increases the self-esteem of the students. For this reason, kids learn faster and better in their mother tongue. 

A film grasp of a learner’s mother tongue would facilitate easier learning for a new language, as it will lay a strong foundation for learning. When one thoroughly knows their indigenous language, they can have high-potency literacy skills in other languages. The mother tongue in learning a foreign language is indistinguishable to a well from which vast knowledge is drawn. It is often used as a formulation to motivate and titivate learning a new language as it allows you to explore the new language in real life communication. 

The mother tongue incontrovertibly keeps our cultural heritage alive as it best helps us stay connected to our culture and roots. Often the essence and meaning of culture is modified during the direct or indirect translation of one language to another. The mother tongue is also an essential tool in conversing deeply with our grandparents and ancestors. It would be an intolerable deed to appeal to our ancestors in a foreign language.

As businesses go the local way, the importance of mother tongue has exponentially increased. Thus, in such scenarios, having a firm understanding of one's mother tongue, where one knows how to read and write, is immensely helpful if you are interested in becoming a successful businessperson. Use of the mother language in business, also aids in creating an adamantine bond between you and the local customers whose support in a business can raise the business sky-high.

Knowing your mother tongue well is a matter of pride. It boosts one's confidence and creates one's awareness in the individual mind and helps them connect with their local environment and culture in a better manner. The mother tongue also plays a prestigious role in shaping the personality and mentality of an individual.

In order to primarily promote the mother tongue, it is of great essence to embolden literature in the mother tongue. Novels and poems in the mother tongue would assist the reader to pick up the morphological aspects and communicative facets of the language.

As a way to enhance the promotion of the mother tongue, we can utilise media. Radio producers and presenters may employ the mother tongue in the production and presentation of both advertisements and news. For instance, the Starz FM station of Tsholotsho in Zimbabwe present all their production in English interchanging with indigenous languages.  Notwithstanding that with the advancing technology, only a handful of people give attention to the radio, the use of the mother tongue in production makes an enormous difference.

The production of films in the mother tongue, significantly exposes tons of people to the use of indigenous languages; which in a way, promote cultural diversity with translations to English helping in the learning process. This has clearly been recognised and put to application by the award-winning Mzilikazi actor Percy Soko in most of his productions, these include: Mandla, Scars-Amanxeba, Jaiva Sbone amongst many others. 

To promote the mother tongue, it is crucial that indigenous languages are nationally recognised as  official subjects in school. That way, it would mean that the learning population will always find itself equipped with a deep understanding of the language.

With the technological improvements we are experiencing, it is patent that we are heading for a period dominated by computers. This is exactly why it is critical that computers are also developed to clearly recognise vernacular languages.

Due to the spread of the European and American culture around the whole world, countless people globally are of the delusive belief that being fluent in English designates superiority of an individual. Consequently, it is really important that family elders teach the growing population about the importance and the undisputed role played by the mother tongue.

Parents of today are given to naming their children English names that they hardly know meanings to. It is therefore, essential that  this  tradition of correctly naming  children  is passed from generation to generation, to reflect a hereditary foundation and promote the spirit of ubuntu. The government also has a critical  role to play in the promotion of native languages as evidenced in the provisions of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, (GoZ, 2013).  Legislative debates/ announcements can  also be done in vernacular languages, enabling the majority populace to follow the proceedings  and to  identify with the outcomes as their own.

The most effective method to achieve maximum promotion of the mother tongue is that, teachers in schools should use multilingual teaching. This  approach in the teaching and learning process will brighten the children's perspective on the mother tongue, and enhance the  understanding of the sophisticated concepts that need to be grasped.

Although, people have begun to pave the way to promoting the mother tongue, it has been an absolute mammoth task; as nut-cracking challenges are faced every step of the way. As such, these challenges include the paucity of vocabulary in these vernacular languages. In as much as teachers have adopted the strategy of multilingual teaching, they face gigantic hardships when they have to translate certain words to indigenous languages as some words are just unavailable. 

Notably, in the latest amendment of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, sixteen languages have been officially recognised. Amongst those, the lion's share goes to indigenous languages. For this reason, it is a tough thing to try multilingual teaching in schools as the student emerge from different families that do not necessarily consider the same language as their mother tongue

With the well spread belief that indigenous languages are inferior, people seldom communicate in the mother tongue lately. In fact, nobody even wants to hear about the mother tongue. Whenever one attempts to promote it, people view him as boring and bogus. This negative eye that has been set against vernacular languages has made it very difficult to successfully promote them.

As most of our local men are now engaging into international business, investors are sought abroad. It is due to this scenario that the business industry has no room for the mother tongue. In order to please the foreign investors, the work space has absolutely ruled by the universal English language.

In conclusion, mother tongue is an international phenomena which should be taken seriously as stated by Mahatma Gandhi's famous words,"If the English educated neglect, as they have done and even now continue, as some do, to be ignorant of their mother tongue, linguistic starvation will abide."

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Essay on Mother Tongue For School Students

• Updated on  
• Dec 27, 2023

Essay on Mother Tongue: To highlight the significance of mother tongue, Brigham Young said “See that your children are properly educated in the rudiments of their mother tongue, and then let them proceed to higher branches of learning.”

Mother tongue refers to the language we learn at our home. Fluency in this language allows one to grow and explore. Also, knowledge of one’s mother tongue helps carry forward our cultural identity. Apart from these, one’s mother tongue also enables one to understand the local culture and establish and grow business in that area. 

Table of Contents

• 1 Sample Essay on Mother Tongue in 100 Words
• 2 Sample Essay on Mother Tongue in 200 Words
• 3 Sample Essay on Mother Tongue in 300 Words

Also Read: Benefits of Learning Local Language of a Country 

Sample Essay on Mother Tongue in 100 Words

Mother tongue, also known as native language or first language, is spoken at home. It forms the core of our identity, embodies our cultural roots, and helps emote our thoughts. It also serves as a bridge that connects generations. 

Our first words, cradle songs, and childhood fairy tales are all transferred to us in our mother tongue. All these memories give a sense of belongingness. One should preserve one’s native language as it is often effective in family communication. 

Mother tongue holds importance in everyone’s life as it facilitates cognitive development and learning foreign languages. This further helps us in our academic and professional journey. 

Also Read: Top 10 Language Learning Websites of 2024: Discover, Learn, and Connect

Sample Essay on Mother Tongue in 200 Words

Mother tongue is the first language that we learn in childhood. It plays a vital role in shaping our worldview. It is a means of communication and a repository of culture, values, and familial bonds. As a child when we speak our first words our parents try to embrace that moment for eternity. 

Also, speaking our native language helps us remain in touch with our traditions, rituals, and familial histories. Thus, it is necessary to preserve our first language and pass it on to future generations. 

In this globalised world, our linguistic diversity is at risk as most schools and universities impart education in English or other global languages. Thus, to safeguard one’s native language, one must try conversing in that language with her/his/their family and friends. Moreover, safeguarding the tongue promotes a sense of pride and belonging. Also, it reinforces the uniqueness of each language’s heritage. 

Thus, our first language defines our beginning and origin. It is just not a mode of communication; instead, it is like a bundle of precious words that helps one to learn and explore more languages. Learning more than one language helps us become a part of an extended society. It is like a treasure that we have been taking care of since childhood. 

Also Read: What are Language Skills?

Sample Essay on Mother Tongue in 300 Words

Mother tongue which is spoken by a person from birth, is significant in shaping one´s identity and cultural connection. It serves as the medium through which one starts to express and understand emotions. Also, it helps shape our fundamental cognitive structures. Thus, one should preserve and embrace one´s mother tongue for learning other languages in the future. 

Mother tongue is a vessel of cultural heritage. It helps in the refinement of traditions and customs. This heritage is carried forward and passed down through generations. As a storage of shared experiences, the mother tongue connects individuals to their roots and encourages a sense of belonging. 

Secondly, proficiency in one´s mother tongue is important for effective communication. One can express thoughts and feelings most authentically. Mastering one´s mother tongue lays the foundation for acquiring additional language skills, and facilitates cross-cultural understanding. One should remember that language is just not a tool for communication but a gateway to comprehending the complex layers of thought and expression. 

Furthermore, mother tongue education also plays a crucial role in academic success. Research indicates that students who receive instruction in their native language, tend to grasp complex concepts more quickly. It gives a deeper understanding of subjects and lays the groundwork for overall development.

In conclusion, the mother tongue is a foundation of cultural identity, effective communication, and academic achievement. Its preservation is not only necessary for linguistic diversity but also for indication of the richness of human experience. 

Also Read: Branches of Linguistics

Ans. For numerous individuals, their native language holds significant value in shaping their identity. It serves as a source of pride and a link to their cultural heritage. Proficiency in one’s mother tongue not only enhances self-awareness but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage.

Ans. Mother tongue refers to the initial language acquired in childhood within the household and remains comprehensible to the individual at the point when the data was gathered.

Ans. We should teach the mother tongue to children to help them connect with culture and explore new languages.

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Ankita Singh

Ankita is a history enthusiast with a few years of experience in academic writing. Her love for literature and history helps her curate engaging and informative content for education blog. When not writing, she finds peace in analysing historical and political anectodes.

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Why teaching the mother tongue is important

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This article deals with the importance of using mother tongue in English classes. It studies positive and negative effects of L1 in L2 teaching process.

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Quality education is a recognised human right that aims at the child’s sound development by supporting his/her personality, infusing him/her with values enshrined in human rights treaties, respecting and promoting the child’s cultural heritage and preparing him/her for a responsible life within society. School, as the dominant educational model plays a significant role, whether it meets or not the goals of an education for all. In our multicultural and multilingual world there are children that do not have the same opportunity to be educated simply because the language of instruction in classroom is unfamiliar to them. Yet, mother tongue-based bilingual education can breach their barriers.

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Research (Cummins, 2001, Benson, 2003 etc.) have proven that a second language is learned best when a first language has been learned well, this perhaps precipitated Skutnabb-Kangas (1981:18) to define mother tongue as the language one thinks with, dreams and count in. This term paper seeks to examine mother tongue schooling in a multilingual environment while drawing its insights from various multilingual countries but using Nigeria as its case study. It is in total consonance with Chumbow (1990) who advocates for the need of a pragmatic approach to the medium of instruction whereby mother tongue and foreign language will be on an equal basis and prevent the creation of a psychological gap detrimental to the cognitive maturation and intellectual development of the child rather than jettisoning indigenous languages for the instrumental and integrative values of exogenous languages.

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This article explores the impact of primary school experience on young children's psychological feature attainments at entry to grade school and analyses data collected as part of a wider longitudinal study. Structure analyses of relationships between child, parent and residential environment characteristics and children's attainments in pre-reading, early variety concepts and language skills are presented. Duration of your time in preschool is found to have a significant and positive impact on attainment over and higher than important. Influences such as family socioeconomic status, income, mother's qualification level, ethnic and language background. The research also points to the separate and important influence of the home learning environment.

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The long spell of colonial rule in Africa, might have, temporarily, solved the problem of communication between African countries themselves, on the one hand, and these countries and the rest of the world, on the other. However, this created a complex linguistic situation on the ground that African governments have, since, been unable to solve. And as a result, national educational systems are constantly on the limp and need urgently to be revamped, but the burning question is: how? Africa is home to thousands of languages and idioms. These numerous languages can, tentatively, be classified in the following manner: 1- Tribal language: an autochthonous idiom spoken by the members of a given tribe only. Unfortunately such languages are in imminent danger of extinction. 2- Community language: a native language used by several tribes in a given geographical area. 3- National language: a native language or languages used within a given country for communication and cultural purposes. 4- Trans-national language: a native language or languages used in more than one country, such as Pular, Swahili, Wolof, etc. 5- Official language: a foreign language or languages imposed by colonial powers as a lingua-franca for use in administration, business circles, trade and schools: such as French, English, Portuguese, etc. It is a known fact that the issue of mother tongue in education in Africa is saddled with pitfalls and drawbacks, even if many African countries have, seemingly, devised waterproof strategies to promote the use of such native languages in school curriculum. And as if the actual situation of mother tongues is not complex and intricate enough, globalisation is adding more salt to injury by insidiously pressuring people, through the magic of ICT, to drop altogether their “useless” native languages as well as some colonial languages for the English language. The present paper will attempt to shed light on and discuss the situation of mother tongues in the African educational systems from such angles as: - Establishment of true national curricula; - Textbooks; - Teacher training; - Language policy; - Literacy, etc. and aim at painting the true picture of the situation both in some North African and Sub-Saharan countries that were colonised by France the last century, given, somewhat, that the colonial educational legacy is similar.

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Essay On Importance of Mother Tongue – 10 Lines, Short and Long Essay

Key Points To Remember When Writing Essay On Mother Tongue

10 lines on mother tongue, paragraph on mother tongue in english, short essay on importance of mother tongue, long essay on mother tongue for children, what will your child learn from mother tongue essay.

Writing essays helps illuminate our thoughts and fosters a deep understanding of subjects. Especially when the topic is as personal and profound as one’s mother tongue. This essay on mother tongue in English aims to stress its importance, not just for linguistic evolution, but for cultural identity. The mother tongue is more than just a medium of communication; it’s a bridge to our ancestry, memories, and childhood. As you delve into this essay for children and students, you will discover the deep connection we share with our mother tongue and how it shapes our thinking, emotions, and worldview.

Writing an essay on such a poignant topic as the mother tongue demands an approach that combines research with emotional depth. The significance of our mother language cannot be overstated, making it vital to handle this subject with care. Here are some pivotal guidelines to ensure your mother language essay is both informative and impactful:

Topic Understanding: Before starting, ensure you truly understand the depth and nuances of the mother tongue and its implications on culture, identity, and personal development.

Personal Touch: Since this is a personal and deeply resonant topic, it’s beneficial to include anecdotes or experiences related to your mother tongue. It will make your essay relatable and heartfelt.

Research Well: While personal experiences are vital, grounding your essay in facts and studies can add depth. For instance, research on the cognitive benefits of learning in one’s mother tongue can be a valuable addition.

Cultural Significance: Emphasize the cultural and historical importance of mother tongues. Discuss how they play a role in preserving traditions, folklore, and shared community memories.

Global Context: Highlight the position of mother tongues in a globalized world. Discuss the challenges and importance of preserving them in the face of global languages.

Language Structure: Ensure your essay has a clear structure – an introduction, main body, and conclusion. Each section should flow logically to the next, creating a coherent narrative.

Originality: While it’s okay to seek inspiration from other sources, make sure your essay is original. Avoid plagiarism and aim for authenticity in your words and ideas.

Proofread: Once you’ve penned down your thoughts, take the time to review your essay. Check for grammatical errors, ensure smooth transitions between points, and verify that the content aligns with the topic.

Engaging Conclusion: Conclude your mother language essay in a manner that leaves a lasting impression on readers, emphasizing the timeless importance and personal connection we all share with our native languages.

The mother tongue, our first language, forms the cornerstone of our cultural and personal identities. This language resonates with our earliest memories, emotions, and experiences. Here’s a short essay for lower primary classes that encapsulates the essence of the mother tongue in 10 straightforward lines:

1. Mother tongue is the first language we learn from our parents.

2. It holds our family’s stories, songs, and secrets.

3. Every culture has its unique mother tongue that shapes its identity.

4. Our mother tongue helps us express our truest feelings easily.

5. Learning in our mother tongue makes understanding simpler and fun.

6. It connects us to our grandparents and ancient traditions.

7. Through it, we can understand our culture’s folktales and songs.

8. Every mother tongue is special and deserves to be cherished.

9. By speaking in our mother tongue, we celebrate our heritage.

10. Our mother tongue is like a comforting lullaby, always close to our heart.

The mother tongue, a gift bestowed upon us from birth, is the vessel of our earliest memories, emotions, and cultural expressions. Its importance transcends mere communication, embedding itself into the very fabric of our identity. The following paragraph delves into the essence of the mother tongue when expressed in English:

The English language, while globally dominant, often finds itself intertwined with a myriad of mother tongues, each enriching it with unique nuances. Our mother tongue, intrinsically linked to our heritage and identity, carries tales of our ancestors and the melodies of lullabies sung to us as children. This language, deeply rooted in emotions and memories, forms an irreplaceable part of our psyche. Even as we navigate the vast expanse of global languages, our mother tongue remains our anchor, providing solace, authenticity, and an unmistakable sense of home.

Recognizing the profound significance of our mother tongue helps in appreciating the cultural tapestries that shape our world and our place within it.

The mother tongue, often considered the language of the soul, encapsulates the essence of one’s culture, heritage, and personal experiences. Its resonance reverberates far beyond mere words, acting as a compass that guides our emotional and cognitive landscapes. Here’s a concise essay exploring the profound significance of the mother tongue:

Our mother tongue, the very first language that dances on our lips, is intrinsically tied to our identity. It’s not merely a medium of communication, but a tapestry woven with threads of memories, emotions, and cultural traditions. Every lullaby sung, every story narrated, and every emotion expressed finds its purest form in our mother tongue. Children, when introduced to concepts in their native language, exhibit enhanced comprehension and a deeper emotional connection. Furthermore, our mother tongue serves as a gateway to our cultural heritage, preserving age-old traditions, stories, and values. In an age dominated by globalization, the importance of cherishing and preserving our mother tongue cannot be overstated. For in its melodies and rhythms, we find the echoes of our past and the aspirations of our future.

This intimate bond with our mother tongue anchors us, reminding us of our roots even as we explore new linguistic horizons.

The mother tongue, our primary language, forms an intrinsic part of our identity. It ties us to our cultural heritage, shapes our cognitive processes, and influences our emotional responses. Understanding its significance, especially in the realms of education and national development, is imperative. In this essay, we’ll delve deeper into the essence of the mother tongue and explore ways to promote its preservation and growth.

Importance of Mother Tongue

Our mother tongue is much more than just a language; it is an embodiment of our history, culture, and collective memory. It serves as a bridge connecting us to our ancestors, the values they upheld, and the tales they told. This deep-seated connection impacts various facets of our lives, especially in education and national development.

Significance in National Development

A nation’s strength isn’t solely determined by its economy or military prowess, but also by the preservation and promotion of its cultural heritage. The mother tongue plays a pivotal role here. It fosters unity, instills a sense of belonging, and reinforces shared values. By promoting and preserving our mother tongue, we ensure that our national identity remains intact, even in the face of rapid globalization.

Importance in Education

Educating children in their mother tongue has myriad benefits, including:

Enhanced comprehension: Concepts are grasped faster when taught in a child’s native language.

Emotional connection: Students relate better to content when it’s in their mother tongue, fostering a deeper emotional understanding.

Boosted confidence: Children are more expressive and confident when communicating in their primary language.

Cultural preservation: Teaching in the mother tongue ensures that traditional values and stories are passed down to younger generations.

Holistic development: A balance of mother tongue and global languages ensures a well-rounded education.

Ways To Promote Mother Tongue

1. Celebration of Language Days: Hosting annual events celebrating various mother tongues can instill pride and promote usage.

2. Incorporate in School Curriculum: By including mother tongue literature and stories in school curriculums, we ensure it remains a vital part of a child’s education.

3. Encourage Media Representation: Local television shows, radio programs, and films can help in the widespread dissemination of the language.

4. Literature Festivals: Hosting events that focus on literature in one’s mother tongue can amplify its reach and appreciation.

5. Language Classes: Organizing community-based classes to teach and preserve the language ensures that younger generations stay connected to their roots.

Through the Mother Tongue essay, your child will grasp the profound significance of their primary language, understanding its role beyond mere communication. The essay underscores the intimate relationship between culture, identity, and language, emphasizing how it shapes cognitive processes and emotional bonds. Moreover, by appreciating the importance of mother tongues in education and national development, your child will gain a holistic perspective on its relevance in the global context.

1. Can A Child Have More Than One Mother Tongue?

Absolutely! A child can indeed have more than one mother tongue, especially if they are raised in a bilingual or multilingual environment. When children are exposed to multiple languages from birth or at a very young age and use them frequently in various spheres of life (e.g., one language with one parent and another with the second parent), they can develop native proficiency in both, effectively having multiple mother tongues.

2. What Is The Difference Between Mother Tongue and First Language?

The terms “mother tongue” and “first language” are often used interchangeably. However, there’s a subtle distinction:

Mother Tongue: This typically refers to the language spoken at home, especially by one’s parents or caregivers. It’s deeply connected to one’s cultural and familial roots.

First Language: This is the language that a person learns first and in which they are most fluent or comfortable. In many cases, a person’s mother tongue and first language are the same, especially if they continue to use that language predominantly. However, due to circumstances such as migration or a change in the primary language of education, a person’s first language might shift from their mother tongue.

Both terms emphasize the foundational role of the language in one’s life, but the specific focus of each can vary based on context and individual experiences.

The mother tongue, intricately woven into our identity, remains a testament to our cultural heritage, familial bonds, and individual narratives. Its significance extends beyond simple communication, touching upon the core of our emotions, memories, and expressions. Through essays and discussions, we not only underscore its importance but also educate and empower the younger generation to cherish and uphold this linguistic treasure. Recognizing, celebrating, and promoting our mother tongue ensures the preservation of our rich tapestry of traditions, stories, and values for generations to come.

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Mother tongue learning

The importance of mother tongue language in education.

A consequence of the ever-increasing popularity of international schools is the growth in the number of children learning in a language other than their first. This can open opportunities for the individual but, as Carolyn Savage explains, continuing to develop the mother tongue is vital to enhance learning.

Importance of first language

We are living in a time of unprecedented travel, with technological advances and globalization offering more and more people the opportunity to explore and live in cultures that are not their own. International schools have been established for decades now and are rapidly growing in popularity, particularly amongst local populations, as they offer easier access to higher education opportunities around the world. As a consequence, the number of children learning in a language other than their mother tongue is growing rapidly.

Research indicates that having a strong mother tongue foundation leads to a much better understanding of the curriculum as well as a more positive attitude towards school, so it’s vital that children maintain their first language when they begin schooling in a different language.

Developing the mother tongue

When children develop their mother tongue, they are simultaneously fostering a whole host of other essential skills, such as critical thinking and literacy skills. It is this skill-set that they take with them into formal education, and research tells us that any skills and concepts gained in the learner’s home language don’t need to be re-taught when they transfer to a second language. For example, if a child has developed the ability to guess the meaning of a word through its context or to infer meaning by reading between the lines, these skills are easily transferred when they begin studying in a second language. It is much harder, however, to teach these abstract skills directly through a second language.

It’s also well known that a strong mother tongue foundation equips children with the skills they need to learn additional languages, allowing them to transfer their understanding of the structure of language to several new languages. The intuitive understanding of grammar that develops when children learn their first language can easily be passed on to other languages. With multilingualism becoming an increasingly sought-after attribute within the workplace, this advantage cannot be overstated. Globalization and increased co-operation between nations mean that, in many organisations, it has become a requirement to have language skills in addition to being a specialist within a particular field.

Language and mother tongue also play a huge role in the development of personal, social and cultural identity. Children with a strong foundation in their first language often display a deeper understanding of themselves and their place within society, along with an increased sense of wellbeing and confidence. Naturally, this flows down into every aspect of their lives, including their academic achievement.  

Image courtesy of https://ling-app.com/

International schools and mother tongue

This is, of course, one of the reasons why bilingual education systems are growing in popularity around the world and many international schools are focusing their resources on establishing strong mother tongue programmes. Parent workshops outlining the importance of the mother tongue are becoming increasingly popular, because many parents mistakenly believe that they should only speak to their children in the school’s language of instruction, often contributing to children not gaining complete fluency in either their first or second language. In SE Asia, for example, our EAL specialists regularly invited parents into school for evening workshops, where they outlined research showing how children learn languages, discussed the school’s teaching methodology for language learning, and, most importantly, explained the importance of a strong mother tongue foundation and the vital role that parents play in developing and maintaining this.

When I taught in Bratislava, we encouraged children to bring in books written in their home language(s) and to share these with the class. Sometimes, children chose to read small extracts out loud, allowing them to demonstrate more developed reading skills, whilst simultaneously building pride in their own culture and developing respect for all cultures within the school. This was just one small part of the jigsaw that made up our in-depth mother tongue programme.

As Irina Bokova, UNESCO Director General said, “Mother languages in a multilingual approach are essential components of quality education, which is itself the foundation for empowering women and men and their societies.”

Carolyn grew up in the Netherlands, completing her degree in modern foreign languages before gaining her PGCE from the University of Cambridge. Since then, she has worked as a class teacher in the UK, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Carolyn established a whole-school EAL program in the Middle East, before expanding her experience to include PYP in Cambodia. Carolyn writes a regular column for the Huffington Post.

Images: jordandreyer  from  Pixabay

Other Image: Aline Dassel  from  Pixabay

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The importance of the mother tongue

Introduction.

There is a lot of advice to parents of ESL students elsewhere on these pages. However, the most important message can be summarized in one sentence:

ESL students in international schools learn English more quickly and effectively if they maintain and develop their proficiency in the mother tongue.

How the mother tongue helps the learning of English

Research* has shown that many skills acquired in the first language can be transferred to the second language. So, for example, if your child has developed good reading skills in Korean, she is likely to be able to apply these skills when reading English.

One useful reading skill is the ability to guess the meaning of unfamiliar words from context. Another one is the ability to decide which new words in a text are important to look up in the dictionary and which words can safely be ignored. For this reason it helps if you can encourage your child to read good fiction and non-fiction in her own language.

Similarly, the skills of being able to plan out a piece of writing or develop an argument in a persuasive essay can be applied in the second language once they have been learned in the first language.

* Click for more on the findings from research on language transfer:

Krashen has researched extensively in the field of second language acquisition. He states:

"In early stages [reading in the first language] can profoundly accelerate the development of reading ability in the second language."

This is true because:

• reading skills transfer from language one to language two
• reading provides knowledge of the world that makes second-language texts more comprehensible
• the pleasure of the reading habit itself transfers to the second language

Krashen, S. (2004) The Power of Reading: Insights from the Research. Heinemann. Portsmouth.

There is more about Krashen's research findings elsewhere on this site.

Other reasons for developing mother tongue proficiency

Firstly, many children in international schools plan to return to their home country at some point to continue their education there. This is a strong reason to make sure they do not have gaps in mother tongue language or cognitive development.

And secondly, ESL students who turn against or otherwise neglect their mother tongue can often suffer from problems of identity loss or alienation from their parents, and from their grandparents or other family members in their home country.

Ways to develop the mother tongue proficiency

For some students, developing mother tongue proficiency is easier because they have lessons each week in their native language. For students who are not in this fortunate position, there is still much that can be done to maintain the mother tongue.

For example, parents can make sure that they have good reference books or textbooks at home - in the native language. Students should be encouraged to read good literature and to discuss school work. Some of the long summer vacation could be devoted to mother-tongue learning and reading.

The advice on this page is so important that it is repeated below.

Click the button to see the advice in graphic form:

[Illustrations reproduced with the permission of Professor J. Cummins.]

Here is a brief video on the same topic.