2
Uzbek — the state language
Textbook: pp. 4–6
GoalKnow the status of Uzbek as the state language and its importance.
New words
state language · davlat tilistatus · maqomprestige, authority · nufuzoffice work, record keeping · ish yuritish
Explanation
On 21 October 1989 Uzbek was given the status of the state language. After that, meetings and official documents in state offices began to be conducted mostly in Uzbek. In the years of independence the prestige of our language grew further, and practical work began to raise its international standing. According to the Law «On the State Language», every citizen has the right to write his or her name, patronymic and surname in line with national and historical traditions. Television and radio programmes are broadcast in the state language and also in other languages.
Worked examples
The parents’ meeting at our school was held in Uzbek.
National tradition is kept when writing names: Aziza Karimova, Bobur Rahimov.
Class activity
“In honour of our language”: groups propose three practical actions to raise the prestige of Uzbek.
Practice
1
When was Uzbek given the status of the state language?
On 21 October 1989.
2
What changed after the state-language status was given?
Meetings and official documents in state offices began to be conducted mostly in Uzbek, and the language’s prestige grew.
3
What does the word «nufuz» mean?
Prestige, authority, influence.
4
Why does every people try to protect its mother tongue? Write your idea.
Because language preserves a nation’s history, culture and unity; if it is lost, the nation loses its identity.