Bilingualism

I've been wanting to discuss the topic of bilingualism for a while, so here it goes.

In the Czech Republic, it is mandatory for students to begin learning English in elementary school, then continue with it throughout secondary school. Many of my students are quite talented English speakers! During secondary school, students have the opportunity to pick up a third language, and most students choose German. 

Unfortunately, they don't speak German as well as English because they only take it for a maximum of four years. The upside is that Germany is a bordering nation, so students could travel just about two hours and be in Germany. This would give students the opportunity to practice their German with native speakers, whereas the closest English speaking country is England, which in terms of travel, is further and more expensive to get to for Czechs. 

When the German colleagues from Nabburg were visiting, I had the opportunity to talk with their headmaster (principal). He was so excited that he was able to talk to an American, and I must say quite jealous of my headmaster for having the opportunity to have a native English speaker at his school. You see, English is the language of the future. Two superpowers, Great Britain and America, both speak English. Most countries these days require their students to become bilingual in order to participate in a globalized, interdependent world. Sure you can succeed with knowing solely your native language, but there are triple the opportunities in life if you can also speak English. Not to mention, you can find a profession that pays you more, too. 

Countries all over the world desperately want native English speakers to teach or volunteer in their communities. Students have the opportunity to hear the correct pronunciation of words and are forced to listen to the rapid and natural linking of words in our everyday speech. In addition, English foreign language teachers have the opportunity to ask the native English speakers questions. From experience, my colleagues ask me things all the time, and I'm happy to help! 

During our discussion, I stated how I wished Americans were more bilingual, but the headmaster pointed out that they "don't need to be". I became very sad because I don't think that's a mentality Americans should have. On the contrary, I think we need to have our students learn a second language sooner in their education. Four to six years of learning a second language is just not enough! And yes, Americans who are bilingual are more likely to obtain and keep their job as well as get paid more than those who only know English. If you're reading this and you are or have a school-aged child, perhaps you should pay more attention to the education being received. 

Unfortunately, many schools are cutting foreign language programs due to budget deficits. Did you ever notice that most schools only seem to offer Spanish, Italian, or French, too? Western Europe is fabulous, but what about other parts of the world? Stand up for your future or the future of your children. Find resources and opportunities to practice a second language, or even better, go to a foreign country for a summer and be immersed in another language. There are so many wonderful opportunities out there if you would only inquire. The best part is that most programs only make you pay for the airfare; you can work somewhere and instead of getting paid wages, your lodging will be free. Many of you may not think it's important now, but know that this is a matter of great importance, especially when an economy goes downhill!