81 Unit 06 All men are created equal Read the text about politically correct language. Some words are missing. Choose the correct answer (A, B, C or D) for each gap (1–15). Put a cross ( ) in the correct box. The first one (0) has been done for you. LANGUAGE IN USE 1 An immigrant to Canada explains why you shouldn’t say ‘Indian summer’ It was a particularly warm, sunny day in the autumn when I used ‘Indian summer’ to describe the weather as I was chatting with a friend. As a newcomer to Canada who is experiencing the four (0) for the first time and whose English is far from perfect, I was particularly (1) of using a new English term for such days which I’d just learned. I was disappointed when my friend said, “You probably shouldn’t be saying that.” It (2) out, ‘Indian summer’ is not a politically correct term. Politically correct language is (3) on the idea that words have power. They can change how we think about and (4) others. This is why it is important to (5) language that insults or harms people, especially those who are already (6) disadvantage or discrimination because of their gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, abilities, or sexual orientation. More than anything, it (7) using language that is respectful, inclusive and empowering. That’s (8) we now use ‘firefighter’ or ‘police officer’ instead of ‘firemen’ or ‘policemen’ in order to be gender-inclusive, or ‘person with disability’ instead of ‘disabled’ to change negative stereotypes. Going back to the term ‘Indian summer’, I learned that it’s politically incorrect because of its negative (9) about Indigenous Peoples. The term can (10) that Indians are usually late since the period comes late in summer, or that they are (11) or phony since it’s a brief spell of warmth in an otherwise cold season. That’s why it’s not right to use it. (Incidentally, the correct term to use is ‘Indigenous Peoples’ when referring to the first peoples of Canada. Not Indians.) Learning about and using politically correct language is important for everyone, not only newcomers to Canada. Politically incorrect terms can (12) relationships and help perpetuate negative stereotypes. This can be challenging for newcomers, especially (13) we’re still learning the language. It’s like adding another layer of meaning while we’re still understanding the initial layer. However, what (14) is that we try and don’t stop trying. (15) in mind that being PC is all about using language that helps instead of harms. It simply means that you’re trying to be aware of the effects of your words and learning how to be a better, kinder human being. Key Nur zu Prüfzwecken – Eigentum des Verlags öbv
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