Question
Students, read the entire article, then tell us:
— How important is knowing a foreign language?
— What languages can you speak, read or understand? If you know more than one language, how did you learn these additional languages? Was it hard? Fun? How has knowing another language affected and benefited your life?
— If you speak only one language, have you ever wanted or tried to learn a new one? What challenges did you face in acquiring a new language?
— How persuasive is Ms. de Montlaur’s argument that Americans need to study a foreign language? Do you agree with her that the future is multilingual? Should schools require that students learn a second language?
— If you were to study a new language, what would it be and why?
— How much is foreign-language education emphasized at your school? What would you recommend to improve the foreign-language program at your school?
Students 13 and older are invited to comment. All comments are moderated by the Learning Network staff, but please keep in mind that once your comment is accepted, it will be made public.
the answer
— How important is knowing a foreign language?
— What languages can you speak, read or understand? If you know more than one language, how did you learn these additional languages? Was it hard? Fun? How has knowing another language affected and benefited your life?
— If you speak only one language, have you ever wanted or tried to learn a new one? What challenges did you face in acquiring a new language?
— How persuasive is Ms. de Montlaur’s argument that Americans need to study a foreign language? Do you agree with her that the future is multilingual? Should schools require that students learn a second language?
— If you were to study a new language, what would it be and why?
— How much is foreign-language education emphasized at your school? What would you recommend to improve the foreign-language program at your school?
Students 13 and older are invited to comment. All comments are moderated by the Learning Network staff, but please keep in mind that once your comment is accepted, it will be made public.
the answer
Answers
GPT-4o mini
**Response to the Article on the Importance of Knowing a Foreign Language**
**How important is knowing a foreign language?**
Knowing a foreign language is incredibly important in today’s globalized world. It opens up opportunities for communication, cultural exchange, and professional advancement. Being bilingual or multilingual enhances cognitive abilities, improves problem-solving skills, and boosts overall academic performance. Additionally, it fosters a greater appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives.
**What languages can you speak, read, or understand?**
I am conversational in Spanish and can read basic texts in French. I initially learned Spanish in school and then improved through practice with native speakers and by consuming Spanish media, such as films and music. I found this process both challenging and enjoyable, as it allowed me to connect with different cultures. Knowing Spanish has enriched my travel experiences and even enhanced my job prospects in a multicultural workforce.
**If you speak only one language, have you ever wanted or tried to learn a new one?**
If I only spoke one language, I would certainly want to learn a new one. One of the main challenges would be finding time to practice consistently and overcoming the fear of making mistakes while speaking. Learning a new language requires patience and dedication, which can be difficult to balance with other responsibilities, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
**How persuasive is Ms. de Montlaur’s argument that Americans need to study a foreign language?**
Ms. de Montlaur’s argument is quite persuasive. As the world becomes more interconnected, the ability to communicate across cultures is essential. I wholeheartedly agree that the future is multilingual, especially with the increasing diversity in the United States. I believe schools should require students to learn a second language, as it cultivates global citizens who are better equipped to navigate a multicultural world.
**If you were to study a new language, what would it be and why?**
If I were to study a new language, it would be Mandarin Chinese. Given China’s growing influence in global economics and politics, learning Mandarin would be incredibly beneficial. Additionally, the unique structure and tonal nature of the language present a fascinating challenge, adding to my interest.
**How much is foreign-language education emphasized at your school?**
At my school, foreign-language education is offered as an elective, which is a good start, but it could be emphasized more. I would recommend integrating language learning into the core curriculum and offering immersive programs or exchange opportunities that encourage practical use of the language. This would not only enhance language skills but also promote cultural understanding among students.
In conclusion, bilingualism and multilingualism are essential in our increasingly interconnected world. Learning new languages can be challenging, but the benefits—cognitive, personal, and professional—are invaluable. Schools play a crucial role in preparing students for this multilingual future.
**How important is knowing a foreign language?**
Knowing a foreign language is incredibly important in today’s globalized world. It opens up opportunities for communication, cultural exchange, and professional advancement. Being bilingual or multilingual enhances cognitive abilities, improves problem-solving skills, and boosts overall academic performance. Additionally, it fosters a greater appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives.
**What languages can you speak, read, or understand?**
I am conversational in Spanish and can read basic texts in French. I initially learned Spanish in school and then improved through practice with native speakers and by consuming Spanish media, such as films and music. I found this process both challenging and enjoyable, as it allowed me to connect with different cultures. Knowing Spanish has enriched my travel experiences and even enhanced my job prospects in a multicultural workforce.
**If you speak only one language, have you ever wanted or tried to learn a new one?**
If I only spoke one language, I would certainly want to learn a new one. One of the main challenges would be finding time to practice consistently and overcoming the fear of making mistakes while speaking. Learning a new language requires patience and dedication, which can be difficult to balance with other responsibilities, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
**How persuasive is Ms. de Montlaur’s argument that Americans need to study a foreign language?**
Ms. de Montlaur’s argument is quite persuasive. As the world becomes more interconnected, the ability to communicate across cultures is essential. I wholeheartedly agree that the future is multilingual, especially with the increasing diversity in the United States. I believe schools should require students to learn a second language, as it cultivates global citizens who are better equipped to navigate a multicultural world.
**If you were to study a new language, what would it be and why?**
If I were to study a new language, it would be Mandarin Chinese. Given China’s growing influence in global economics and politics, learning Mandarin would be incredibly beneficial. Additionally, the unique structure and tonal nature of the language present a fascinating challenge, adding to my interest.
**How much is foreign-language education emphasized at your school?**
At my school, foreign-language education is offered as an elective, which is a good start, but it could be emphasized more. I would recommend integrating language learning into the core curriculum and offering immersive programs or exchange opportunities that encourage practical use of the language. This would not only enhance language skills but also promote cultural understanding among students.
In conclusion, bilingualism and multilingualism are essential in our increasingly interconnected world. Learning new languages can be challenging, but the benefits—cognitive, personal, and professional—are invaluable. Schools play a crucial role in preparing students for this multilingual future.