Purpose and Tone Exercise 6

Read each selection to determine the purpose and tone the writer conveys.

Assimilation has become a powerful and often volatile word in American culture. As assimilation relates to becoming an "American," it has often come to mean that newcomers will absorb or assume quickly "American" language, ways of behavior, and traditions. However, much of what is now considered to be "American" is a rather fascinating blend created over America's history by its immigrants, many of whom were initially of European descent. In reality, assimilation is actually a long, complex and on-going process, not something that happens quickly. As new immigrants enter America from a variety of countries, "American" culture is affected, subtly changing: "Americans" are introduced to new languages, new customs, new ways of thinking. Conversely, those entering the country change, too, for change is inevitable and assimilation does, indeed, occur. Immigrants are exposed to English, new foods, new ways of dress, new mannerisms, and traditions. However, one never masters the ways of the new place overnight, and one never totally leaves behind the heart and soul of the place from which he or she came. America is a country settled by immigrants from a variety of places, and Americans must be aware that "assimilation" is a process, a natural part of America's tradition of freedom and growth. It takes time.