Week Starters
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by Jessica Yu If you have finished or are currently in high school, chances are, you’ve probably taken some type of foreign language class. More and more high schools are incorporating foreign languages into their curriculum, making it mandatory for students to learn a new language before they graduate. Being able to communicate in another language is a very useful tool that opens a door to new opportunities. However, learning new languages is not everyone's cup of tea. For students who struggle to wrap their head around a new language or do not express any interest at all in learning it, is it really fair for school systems to require them to take these classes? Some may argue no, that foreign language classes should not be required. Making foreign language classes mandatory takes away opportunities for students to choose other classes that they may be interested in. A student may have to sacrifice an arts or music class in order to take a language class that they do not want to take. If they’re not interested in the language, they won’t be able to learn it thoroughly, and therefore won’t be able to utilize it outside of the classroom. Students who have trouble grasping a new language may have additional stress trying to force themselves to understand it, as well as the core classes that they need to focus on as well. On the other end of the spectrum, some argue that foreign classes are extremely beneficial, and that they should be mandatory. Many students who were not previously interested in learning another language have changed their attitudes after taking classes, and find them useful. Their perspective is that if you never try, you’ll never know! Coming out of high school with a background in a language other than English is very appealing to colleges and employers as well. What are your opinions on high school foreign language classes? Should they be required, or should students have the choice of choosing whether they want to take it or not?
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