Everyone speaks a language, but language is not just for talking. It is our most important communication tool. Through language, we can tell other people what we think, how we feel, and what we need. In fact, civilization (文明) itself depends on our ability to communicate.

In the long history of human, languages survive, grow, disappear, move from place to place, and change with time. There are about 6,000 different living languages around the world today, and there are many thousands more that are no longer in use. Languages might sound different, but they are thought to have come from a single ancient language.

Nobody knows exactly when people first started using languages. Some scientists say that people first spoke to one another about two million years ago.

Today, our complicated (复杂的) languages get fully used in the magazines, novels, science books, and movies that fill our libraries and bookstores. As humans, it is important that we can tell the long stories, which separates us from the great apes (类人猿). Other animals may use kinds of methods to communicate, but we humans can send complicated messages through space and time.

Throughout history there were many languages that served as a lingua franca (通用语)—a common language that could serve as a bridge between people of different cultures. Today, English is the main language that plays that role around the world. Many people have studied English as a second or third language.

Language helps people to work together, to share knowledge, feelings, and build up modern societies. The development of humanity’s many languages was an important process that helped humans move forwards towards civilization.

Language

Language is our most important communication tool

● With the help of language, we tell others our 1., feelings and needs.

● Our ability to communicate leads to civilization.

Some facts about languages

● There are about 6,000 different languages that are being 2. around the world.

● People started to speak to one another two million years ago, according to some scientists.

● Humans’ languages make it 3. for us to send complicated messages through space and time.

● English is used most 4. around the world today.

The 5. of language

● Language helps people to work together, to share knowledge, feelings, and build up modern societies.

● The development of humanity’s many languages was an important process that helped humans move towards civilization.

We’ve all been there: in a lift, in line at the bank or on an airplane, around by people who are, like us, deeply look at their smartphones or, worse, fighting with the uncomfortable silence.

What’s the problem? It’s more likely that none of us start a conversation because it’s challenging, or we think it’s unnecessary. But the next time you find yourself among strangers, consider that small talk is worth the trouble. Experts say it’s an invaluable social practice that results in big advantages.

Small talk is the grease (润滑剂) for social communication, says Bernardo Carducci, director of the Shyness Research Institute at Indiana University Southeast. “Almost every great love story and each big business deal begins with small talk,” he explains. “The key to successful small talk is learning how to connect with others, not just communicate with them.”

In a 2014 study, Elizabeth Dunn, professor of psychology at UBC, invited people on their way into a coffee shop. One group was asked to look for an interaction (互动) with its waiter; the other, to speak only when necessary. The results showed that those who chatted with their waiter reported higher positive (积极的) feelings and a better coffee shop experience. “It’s not that talking to the waiter is better than talking to your husband.” says Dunn. “But interactions with peripheral (边缘的) members of our social network matter for our well-being also.”

Dunn believes that people who reach out to strangers feel a greater sense of belonging (归属感), a relationship with others. Carducci believes developing such a sense of belonging starts with small talk. “Small talk is the basis of good manners.” he says.

1.What’s the main idea of Paragraph 1?

A.Interest in smartphones. B.Unsuitable behaviours in public places.

C.Absence of communication between strangers. D.Impatience with slow service.

2.What does the coffee-shop study suggest about small talk?

A.It improves family relationships. B.It raises people’s confidence.

C.It matters as much as a formal talk. D.It makes people feel good.

3.What is the best title for the text?

A.Conversation Counts B.Advantages of Small Talk

C.Uncomfortable Silence D.Ways of Making Small Talk

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