1. Why study a foreign language?

2. True or false? Take a guess
Teenagers and young adults have the ability to learn languages quickly and easily.
Pretty much everyone speaks English these days.
Language learning is unnecessary with modern translation technologies.
True! The brains of teenagers and young adults are flexible enough to learn a second language. By this age, you’ve had the chance to be exposed to grammar rules and vocabulary in your own language, which helps tremendously in learning a new one.
False! Just one quarter of the world’s population speaks English to some degree. How about the remaining 5 billion people?
False! Sure, Google Translate can help with vocabulary, but how about grammar? How does this help you communicate in real life?

3. What do all of these people have in common?

4. Yes, they’re all worldwide celebrities. But…they’re also multi-lingual!
Shakira speaks five languages, Heidi Klum is a native German speaker, Mila Kunis was born in Ukraine and speaks fluent Russian, Kobe Bryant speaks fluent Italian and Spanish, Johnny Depp speaks French, Kelly Clarkson speaks Spanish and Swedish, and Kerry Washington speaks SEVEN languages!

5. Just for fun…here’s what we DON’T want to happen in this class…

6. There are many reasons to study a foreign language
There are many reasons to study a foreign language. Take a few minutes and brainstorm with a partner as many reasons as you can think of. Be prepared to share!

7. Studying another culture allows people to have a more profound understanding of their own culture.
One participates more effectively and responsibly in a multicultural world if he/she has knowledge of a foreign language.
Offers a sense of the past, both culturally and linguistically
Leads to an appreciation of cultural diversity

8. Foreign language study breaks down barriers and lessens prejudice toward people who are different than you.
Teaches and encourages respect for other people; fosters an understanding of the interrelation of language and human nature
Makes people more flexible and tolerant
Lessens distrust and fear of others who are different

9. Analytical skills improve when students study a foreign language.
Knowledge of foreign languages improves decision making skills
Increases brain power

10. Foreign language skills make an employee more valuable in the marketplace.
Foreign language study enhances one’s opportunities in government, business, medicine, law, technology, military, industry, and marketing.
Four out of five new jobs in the United States are created as a result of foreign trade.
Offers applicants a competitive edge

11. Creativity is increased with the study of a foreign language.
Knowledge of foreign languages opens the doors to art, music, dance, fashion, cuisine, film, philosophy, science…

12. International travel is made easier.
People become more worldly as they begin to understand how others communicate.
It expands interest and involvement in other cultures and people.
Makes people more aware of global cultural differences

13. Skills like problem solving and dealing with abstract concepts are increased when you study a foreign language.
Enhances listening skills and memory
Many Michigan college and universities recommend that you have two or more years of a foreign language in high school to be a candidate to be accepted to their school. Credits can be earned by demonstrating foreign language proficiency.

14. The study of a foreign language improves the knowledge of one’s own language.
English skills increase and improve, including broadening your vocabulary and deepening your understanding of grammar.

15. The need for foreign language skills in the US increases daily
The need for foreign language skills in the US increases daily. Can you think of why this might be?

16. With a partner, brainstorm a list of careers where knowledge of a foreign language would prove beneficial. List as many as you can, and be prepared to share!