European Languages SS6G11b. Explain the diversity of European languages as seen in a comparison of German, English, Russian, and French

People who speak the same language share similar cultures. As people moved around, they brought their language, customs and traditions with them.

GERMAN Official language of Germany and Austria Spoken in Switzerland, eastern part of France, Luxemburg, Italy, and parts of Eastern Europe. English language is considered a Germanic language (roots are from German) Germans settled in England 1500 years ago. The language they brought developed into English

FRENCH AND ITALIAN Both trace their roots to Latin. Brought to them by the Romans (this is why they are referred to as Romance languages) French – official language of France Also spoken in Belgium and Switzerland. Italian – official language of Italy

GREEK The Greek dialect spoken in Athens, Greece comes from the Ancient Greek Major language of the ancient world Evolved to what is spoken today

SLAVIC Basis of three modern languages: Ukrainian, Belarusian, and Russian. Constantine invented the Slavic alphabet many letters took from the Greek alphabet