Language and Identity in Tan's Work

Amy Tan's 'A Mother Tongue' explores her experiences with different forms of English, particularly her mother's 'broken' English. The essay highlights the challenges faced by non-native speakers in a xenophobic society and how language proficiency often unfairly determines perceived intelligence. Tan discusses her journey to embrace her mother's English in her writing, which ultimately led to her success as a writer. The narrative emphasizes the importance of understanding and valuing diverse language expressions.

What was the original format of Amy Tan's 'Mother Tongue'?

• A poem

• A play

• A speech

• A novel

In what year was 'Mother Tongue' nominated for the best American essays?

• 1992

• 1989

• 1990

• 1991

How did Tan's mother's English affect her life?

• It made her more popular in school.

• It had no impact on her life.

• It influenced her communication and career.

• It helped her learn multiple languages.

What are the different Englishes Tan uses in her life?

• Technical English and casual English

• Formal English and her mother's English

• British English and American English

• Slang and academic English

What challenges did Tan face due to her mother's English?

• Difficulty in making friends

• Social and interpersonal limitations

• Trouble in learning new languages

• Issues with writing essays

How does society often misjudge people with limited English fluency?

• By considering them less intelligent

• By offering them more opportunities

• By ignoring their cultural background

• By encouraging them to learn more

What does Tan argue about people with language difficulties?

• They have a unique expressive command of English.

• They should focus on learning grammar.

• They cannot express themselves well.

• They should not attempt to write.

How did language limitations affect Tan's identity?

• They hindered her identity as a writer.

• They had no effect on her identity.

• They helped her become a better speaker.

• They made her more confident.

What led to Tan's success as a writer?

• Writing in a different language

• Embracing her mother's English

• Ignoring her mother's English

• Focusing on technical writing

What does Tan say about the efficiency of language and communication?

• It depends on grammar rules.

• It is based on pronunciation.

• It relies on perception.

• It is determined by vocabulary.