English US » Dutch | 13 [thirteen] | Activities

13 [dertien] Activiteiten

What does Martha do?	Wat doet Martha?
She works at an office.	Zij werkt op kantoor.
She works on the computer.	Zij werkt op de computer.
Where is Martha?	Waar is Martha?
At the cinema.	In de bioscoop.
She is watching a film.	Zij kijkt naar een film.
What does Peter do?	Wat doet Peter?
He studies at the university.	Hij studeert aan de universiteit.
He studies languages.	Hij studeert talen.
Where is Peter?	Waar is Peter?
At the café.	In het café.
He is drinking coffee.	Hij drinkt koffie.
Where do they like to go?	Waar gaan ze graag heen?
To a concert.	Naar een concert.
They like to listen to music.	Zij luisteren graag naar muziek.
Where do they not like to go?	Waar gaan zij niet graag heen?
To the disco.	Naar de disco.
They do not like to dance.	Zij dansen niet graag.

Media and language

Our language is also influenced by media. New media play an especially large role here. A whole language has emerged from text messages, email and chatting. This media language is of course different in every country. Certain characteristics, however, are found in all media languages. Above all, speed is important for us users. Although we write, we want to generate a live communication. Meaning, we want to exchange information as quickly as possible. So we simulate a real conversation. In this way, our language has developed a verbal character. Words or sentences are often shortened. Grammar and punctuation rules are generally ignored. Our spelling is looser, and prepositions are often missing completely. Feelings are only seldom expressed in media language. Here we prefer to use so-called emoticons. These are symbols that are meant to indicate what we're feeling at the moment. There are also distinct codes for texting and a slang for chat communication. Media language is therefore a very reduced language. But it is used by all (users) in a similar way. Studies show that education or intellect doesn't make a difference. Young people especially like using media language. That's why critics believe that our language is in danger. Science sees the phenomenon less pessimistically. Because children can differentiate when and how they should write. Experts believe that the new media language even has advantages. Because it can promote children's language skills and creativity. And: More is being written today – not letters, but emails! We're happy about this!