Essays About English: Top 5 Examples and 7 Writing Prompts

An understanding of English is a great advantage for success. Take a look at our guide for inspiration for writing essays about English. 

Although English is not the most spoken language in the world, it is undoubtedly the most famous. Almost everyone can speak or understand it, and it has the most diverse speakers. The ability to speak English comes with many advantages. 

For one, it helps you better enjoy a visit to one of the numerous English-speaking countries since you know the language. It also makes browsing the internet and watching television shows, movies, and other video content much more accessible. Most of all, it allows you to practice better communication skills, whether with fellow English speakers or not.

5 Top Essay Examples

1. How to Improve Your English by Jennifer Moody

“Because of its important role, English is considered as one of the most popular language in many countries. Its main purpose is to make students be able to know how to communicate with others if they leave the country for university or business. It helps us to communicate with other people from other countries.”

In this essay, Moody discusses the importance of learning English, the reasons for learning English, and ways to improve your English. It is the dominant language in the world, with billions of speakers, so it would be advantageous to speak it. It can help you understand media better, attract job opportunities, and read English literature. Check out these essays about literature and essays about writing.

2. Importance Of English Language (Author Unknown)

“The English Language opens an ocean of career opportunities to those who speak this language anywhere in the world. Similarly, it has turned into an inevitable requirement for various fields and professions like medicine, computing and more.

In the fast-evolving world, it is essential to have a common language to understand to make the best use of the available data and information. As a result, English has become a storehouse of various knowledge ranging from social to political fields.”

This essay discusses why speaking English is so important; mainly, it is a common language shared by many, so being able to speak it allows us to communicate with more people. It can help us get a job, meet new people, and make our traveling experience easier, among other advantages. You might also be interested in our guide on how to teach writing.

3. The Origin of the English Language by Alyssa Gould

“Well, as Latin spread and speciated throughout Europe, it also adapted as a common aspect of England’s everyday life. This is why Romance words make up a huge percentage of the English vocabulary.

Despite all the influence of other languages, English still remained the primary language of Great Britain. In 1362, English had begun to be used in schools and was now being used in the courts as well (replacing French).”

Gould briefly goes over the history and origins of the English language. It was first formed due to Viking influences on Germanic tribes’ culture and was further influenced by the French. Gould also compares English to Romance languages such as Latin, French, and Spanish, explaining how despite these languages’ popularity, the people in Britain continued to use English until it outlasted them. As we know, it eventually grew into the modern English countless people use today. You may also like these articles about articles.

4.  Learning English Saved My Life! by Adele Aava

“I kept struggling because I LOVED what I was doing. Speaking and reading in another language gave me a feeling of dominance and strength; it made me feel worth the effort. It was trying, but the tenacity and perseverance I had to show brought about a satiety in self-construction; something I was not aware of, but turned out to have had the greatest impact on the formation of my character as a young girl.”

In Aava’s essay, she describes the impact that English has had on her life; using what little access she had in her small Middle East town, she started learning English and got better and better at it over time. She persevered even if she struggled to understand some grammar and writing conventions. She read books, watched movies, and listened to podcasts, making her life so much more enjoyable- it even saved her from depression. 

5. English is your 2nd language, so what? by Jessie Chen

“Sometimes I’m concerned about how I sound when I speak. Public speaking is my most difficult challenge, even when I use Chinese, my native language. If public speaking in your own native language is hard, you would triple the effort using a second language. I face this challenge every day at work, but I won’t ever let it stop me from contributing my ideas and growing.

Imagine all the fears… imagine all those possible self-doubting moments.”

Chen’s essay discusses her background and how it shaped who she is today. English is her second language, and she cannot communicate her thoughts. She also discusses how her challenges help her strive to do better. She reminds readers not to be judgmental, as she is an American like any other, even if English is her second language. She cites Michelle Obama, who encourages everyone to strive for greatness. 

7 Writing Prompts on Essays About English

1. The Role of English in Your Life

The English language plays different roles in different people’s lives. Reflect on the role English has played in your life; it could have helped you embrace a new country, convey your thoughts articulately, or even make important decisions in life. Be as descriptive as possible, and make sure to draw inspiration from your own experiences alone- do not be influenced by external sources. If you still need help, our guide to grammar and punctuation explains more.

2. The Different Dialects of English

Under the umbrella of the English language lies a myriad of dialects, each influenced by the environment and culture of its speakers. Whether Australian, African-American, or Cajun, research one English dialect and write about it in your essay. Discuss its origins, influences, and how it is used today.

3. Why Should You Learn English?

The ability to speak English has many advantages. In your essay, enumerate some of these advantages and connect them, explaining why one should be able to speak English. Support your arguments with credible sources. 

4. Should English Become the Official Language of the U.S.?

English is the de facto official language of the United States, but not by law. There has been much debate on whether it should officially become the national language; proponents say it encourages patriotism and cultural assimilation, while opponents believe an official language is unnecessary. Look into the perspectives of both sides, then decide on your opinion. 

5. The History of the English Language

English originates from Europe and has a deep, rich history set in the traditions of the Germanic peoples. For an interesting essay, research the history of the English language and write about how it has evolved over the centuries. Whether it be the mid-Atlantic accent or today’s texting-influenced slang, discuss one major trend in English usage, past or present, as well as its origins and usage. 

6. Why Is English Important?

Just as some of the essay examples above did, you can write about the importance of the English language. From international communication to the internet, there are many reasons for the importance of English. Write about why English is important from a general perspective, a personal standpoint, or even both. If you’re looking for more ideas, check out our essays about bullying topic guide!