It has been brought to many language teachers’ attention (especially at GCSE level) that modern foreign languages are the dreaded subject for many students. Understandably, learning another language is naturally difficult, but often, MFL lessons are used to ‘mess around’ in school.
Many students claim to not see the point in learning a new language out of pure laziness and entitlement. With so many foreign countries speaking English, why should we learn their language? This attitude is also observed in parents who believe MFL are a waste of time and tell their little darlings not to worry if they fail their French GCSE. As it currently stands, you must learn a foreign language at school between the ages of 7-14 but are not obliged to choose it at GCSE; however some schools do require you to select a language as an option.
Language qualifications gift a great advantage at high paid job positions which is what most people do not realise. For example, a family member with an A-level in French was paid £2000 more than the colleague next to them for simply knowing a language. If you’re unsure about being too specific with your A-level choices, a language is a great filler to enhance your career and make you 10 times more employable in job applications.
As previously mentioned, one of the largest contributing factors to the ignorance in languages is the fact that many foreign countries make the effort to speak English to holidaymakers. Whether they can tell by the excessive amount of sun cream or always ordering steak and chips, the waiters at restaurants can smell the English from a mile away and never fail to perform perfect English. I’m sure we could reciprocate the effort even if that’s just your dad whipping out Duolingo on your family holiday to Spain.
Languages are incredibly fascinating to study, as well as being mildly frustrating, so they should be respected along with the teachers who are educated to share their knowledge or even their native language. MFL lessons are valuable to your future and employability, so don’t take that opportunity for granted.