Freedom Considers if Mandating Langauge Courses is Important

[Story by Rachael Phillips and Hazel Nguyen]

Language is the method of communication that is used whether with words, writing or gestures. As a society, language is essential in our daily lives. Although, there’s still the debate of whether or not knowing another language is essential in our daily lives.

Starting in seventh grade, taking a language course is mandatory throughout middle school in LCPS. Loudoun County Public Schools offers courses such as French, German, Latin and Spanish. In addition, high school students have the option of taking sign language. However, once students get to high school, taking a language class is no longer mandatory.

Due to this, a lot of students choose to opt out of their language courses once entering ninth grade, believing that languages are not necessary anymore.

“I don’t think students need to take languages all throughout high school, but I do think that there should be a language requirement,” said junior Anna Caron.

Although not everyone agrees with the language requirement, students believe that having the knowledge of another language can be useful to real-world communication skills and learning about different cultures.

FHS Junior Caitin Wagner said, “Language is essential because it can expand your communication with others in parts of the world.”

According to a 2019 report by the U.S. Census Bureau, it is estimated that almost 70 million Americans speak a language other than English. That is 1 in 5 people in the US. Not only does this apply in the United States, but around the world as well. Around 75% of the world’s population doesn’t communicate using English.

Whether it’s a trip around the world or a quick trip to the grocery store, chances are there are people all around who speak a completely separate language than just being monolingual.

In addition to knowing languages to communicate with the world around you, some believe that languages can help improve your chances of getting a job or getting into a top college.

“Knowing a second language can open opportunities for success in all life situations,” said Frederick Reed, Spanish teacher.

While most schools only require or look for two years of a language, some top schools such as NYU and Brown University look for students who have taken three to four years of a language course. Many colleges have stated how taking numerous years of a language class grabs their attention, but this may not be a significant determinant of an accepted or rejected email.

With the use of better communication or helping get into a college, it also appears that languages can help an individual in further stages of life.

“A second language can only make you a more well-rounded person,” Reed said.

Although knowing a separate language seems to be important, people still wonder if it should be mandatory or not.

“I don’t necessarily think taking a language is better than picking a different elective,” Caron said.

Many students can agree that taking a language course in the first place is important and necessary, whether that is sticking with your language all the way until senior year, or starting new your freshman year. Language electives are classes that many students may not prefer, but it is a considerable option for those wanting to improve their communication skills and cultural connections.