Text 1: Linguist Dr. Elena Park studies language change. "Languages naturally evolve through use," Park explains. "New words emerge, meanings shift, grammar simplifies. Resisting change fights linguistic nature."
Text 2: Language educator Dr. James Wong advocates for standards. "Standard forms enable clear communication across regions and generations," Wong argues. "Without shared conventions, mutual comprehension degrades."
What tension do Park's and Wong's positions represent?
Between descriptive and prescriptive approaches to language
Between spoken and written communication
Between ancient and modern languages
Between formal and informal settings
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the correct answer. Park describes how language naturally works (descriptive). Wong prescribes standards for effective communication (prescriptive). The classic linguistics divide.
- Evidence: Park: languages "naturally evolve"; Wong: need "shared conventions."
- Reasoning: Observation vs. prescription creates fundamental tension.
- Conclusion: Descriptive vs. prescriptive is the core tension.
Choice B is incorrect because medium isn't the focus. Choice C is incorrect because historical period isn't discussed. Choice D is incorrect because register isn't the central issue.