by Erica Dallas

Created on: January 13, 2008

We are a world of many cultures. Down to the smallest town or city, there are certain traits that set each person or group apart. Growing up in America puts a complex persepctive on the subject of foreign language. Many feel that those who enter into America to become citizens should learn the language. However, Americans also expect everyone else around the globe to speak English. This is unfair and quite arrogant of us. Although I have always been intrigued by other cultures, it took education in Sociology to help broaden my mind. Picture this, you and your family decide to take a trip to Italy or Paris one month in the summertime. Wouldn't it be so much more fun if you were a little more than familiar with the customs and knew the language? It frustrates us to no end when we cannot understand someone. There have been many times I've seen others from foreign countries being blatantly disrespected because of miscommunication. Its really not a fair deal.

The reason pupils should be made to learn at least one foreign language is because (1) they may find it extremely useful when communicating with another race, (2) it is seen as an accomplishment, (3) it is a sign of open-mindedness and respect, and (4) it will broaden their outlook and we need to be humble no matter how wonderful America may be.

There are lots of books out there today that provide the english-spanish version. Kids can now watch dvds which include spanish and french subtitles. Teachers should definitely expose their students to how wonderful different cultures are and have them to do research on a country that interests them. I actually have a three part cd rom that has step by step intro on over 50 languages from Arabic to Irish.

Lots of children are raised to view difference as negative and then they grow up to have these awful adn distorted views. It is what breeds racism and sexism into the world. Culture is a wonderful thing. Language is a form of communication and one shouldnt expect everyone to know their own language.

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