Ejercicio Texto 2 - Cuestión 5 · Inglés PAU Asturias Extraordinaria (2ª lengua extranjera) 2024

Texto 2

Moving abroad

The decision to move abroad is not to be taken lightly. It includes many factors. One must consider the legal and emotional aspects of such a move, the age of the person and, most important of all, the reasons for going to live away from your homeland. The first problem a foreigner finds is the language barrier. It is always advisable to learn at least a few necessary phrases before departing from home. Not knowing the language and being unable to communicate with others lead to a strong sense of loneliness. The older a person is, the harder it is to learn a new language, but you must give it a try, if only for your own well-being. However, it is pointless to think that you can 'go native' and become 'just like everyone else': if you are not able to communicate naturally with others and you can only find comfort in other ex-patriots, that does not make you part of the countryside, so to speak, while it makes you remain isolated.

Legal troubles are likely to appear from the start. Will you need a visa to enter the country? How long does it permit you to stay? Can you get permanent residence? These are questions which must be answered before setting foot in the new country. Only a good lawyer can answer them, although the newcomer has the tendency to trust the advice of veteran ex-patriots who are willing to hand out their words of wisdom on how to navigate the legal jungle.

Just as it is hard to teach an old dog new tricks, it is hard for an older person to get used to a new way of life. The lack of understanding of the local ways can and will lead to trouble and conflicts. Young people tend to adapt more easily. An elderly person cannot be expected to throw away the routines they have followed their whole life, but they must be willing at least to accept some things around. Speaking to their new neighbours, going out and finding new friends help take their mind off what he or she may consider 'the strange habits of the native population'.

Fill the gaps with the correct, most appropriate word in each case. (0,25 por acierto = 1 punto)

5. If you are intending to drive (A)

in your new country of residence, ensure you know the local driving laws and regulations. Apart from ensuring you drive on the right (B)

of the road, there are many customs and laws (C)

you need to be (D)

of, not least the driving license requirements.