Weekly Lesson: Indigenous Languages in the UK

For study until 23 June 2024

Audio: On usual Social media platforms.

1.Many people are quite surprised to learn that the UK is home to several indigenous languages. While English dominates as the primary language, indigenous languages like Welsh, Scots Gaelic, Irish Gaelic, and Cornish are integral to the nation’s heritage. These languages, although spoken by minorities these days, play a crucial role in cultural identity, historical continuity, and linguistic diversity. Even to class (classify) speakers of these languages as minorities, brings about a label, an identity, which supposedly needs protection.

2.Indigenous languages in the UK have ancient roots, predating the arrival of the Anglo-Saxons. Welsh, for instance, evolved from the Brythonic language spoken by the ancient Britons. Scots Gaelic has its origins in the Celtic language brought to Scotland by settlers from Ireland. Cornish, a member of the Brythonic branch of Celtic languages, was spoken in Cornwall until it nearly died out in the 18th century but has seen a revival in recent decades.

3.Today, these indigenous languages vary significantly in terms of vitality and number of speakers. Welsh is the most robust, with about 29% of the population in Wales reporting they can speak it. Scots Gaelic, primarily spoken in the Scottish Highlands and Islands, has around 60,000 speakers (*2011 census). The language enjoys support through initiatives such as Gaelic education and broadcasting services like BBC Alba and Radio Nan Gaidheal. There are currently two Gaelic High Schools in Glasgow. Irish, while more commonly associated with the Republic of Ireland, is also spoken in Northern Ireland albeit with a different dialect. Efforts to promote Irish include bilingual signage, educational programs, and media broadcasting. Cornish, from Cornwall, although it almost became extinct, has seen a remarkable revival. Today, it has a small but dedicated community of speakers, numbering around 500 to 1,000. Cornish language classes, cultural events, and media production contribute to its resurgence.

4.Some people argue however that these languages have been kidnapped and are being held hostage at the hands of ruthless politicians who use them to exploit and create some kind of political agenda saying how different they are from their English neighbours. Wales, Ireland and Scotland have all seen a decline in the number of speakers of their languages. The protection of these beautiful ancient languages is indeed a noble cause but to what end?

5. As we enter into a mindset where each individual and his rights must be respected, these minority languages look set to feature more prominently in politics. We must not forget as well that other parts of the world had 19th century Scottish immigrants who kept Gaelic traditions and culture alive such as Canada for example where Gaelic is thriving today. The future of these languages is uncertain but while they have a political use, there is no doubt they will be encouraged.

Monday : Affirmation – English is very important to me and I strive to learn it daily.

People seem willing to fight to protect languages that they like, how does that compare to your feelings about your English Learning Journey? What would motivate you more and would you fight to preserve your learning? What obstacles did or do you need to overcome?

Tuesday: Affirmation – Language practice is free and easy.

People sometimes make reference to the Gaelic Pound – what do you think is meant by that? Compare it to the “Pink Pound” an expression some people use to talk about the amount of money made from investing in equality for Gay People. How do industries make money from political changes?

Wednesday: Affirmation – Learning English is my choice and it is fun.

Learning minority languages is often more expensive than learning common ones – why do you think that is and how should that affect motivation to learn? Why do you think people want to learn a language which exists only as a local minority?

Thursday: Affirmation – English is only as complicated as I make it.

Ancient languages often use different pronunciation, letters and ways of expression. Reflect on what your English journey has been like and how different that is from your native language.

Friday: Affirmation – Today, even for a few moments, I will speak English.

When you speak a second language in a culture which you were not born into, in what ways does it make you more open minded and in what ways does it become a handicap?

How do you think young Indian, Pakistanis and Arab Children in the UK feel speaking one language at home and another outside?