English is a difficult language to learn because of its spelling and pronunciation. It’s a result of how the language has changed over time. English has borrowed words from many other languages, like French, Latin, and Greek, which can make it even more complicated.
The printing press was invented in the 15th century, which made it important to have a standard way of spelling words so that everything would look the same in print. This allowed different spelling rules being created, which sometimes didn’t match the way people actually spoke.
Also, in English, there isn’t one organization in charge of deciding how to spell words. This means that different groups have different rules for spelling and grammar. All these factors make it hard to learn and use English correctly. But it’s important to remember that the way English is today is a result of its rich history and many different influences.
Comprehension
1) Why is English considered a difficult language to learn?
2) What is one reason why English spelling can be confusing?
3) Is there an organization in charge of deciding how to spell words in English?
Vocabulary
Match the words to the definitions:
1) Spelling
2) Borrowed
3) Standard
4) Allowed
5) Spoke
6) in charge of
a) normal way of doing something
b) the past of “speak”
c) permitted
d) to use for a short time and then return
e) to be responsible
f) the letters used to make a word
Grammar Highlights
Use the present perfect tense to talk about the result of a past action. There is no time expression:
It’s a result of how the language has changed over time.
“English has borrowed words from many other languages …”
*This article was adapted from another article to make it more suitable for English learners. You can read the original article here.