French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, German, and Chinese. These 6 types of languages are ones NYC high school students have the option of taking in schools like Edward R. Murrow, Midwood, Brooklyn Tech, Madison, etc. But how many does John Dewey High School offer? Just 2: Spanish and AP Chinese.
Why is it so important to have a diverse choice of foreign language classes?
Learning a different language is just as crucial as learning about algebra, economics, our government, and chemistry. It provides multiple cognitive benefits like improving memory and concentration, increasing academic performance nurturing creativity, and building strong communication skills as stated on Cambridge.org.
“In a meta-analysis of 20 studies examining language learning and its impact on academic performance, the majority of studies (90%) showed that language learners perform better across a range of academic subjects than students who don’t study a second language. ”
Learning a new language requires analytical skills, being able to memorize and practice sentence structure, and strong concentration skills. When asked about the addition of more foreign language classes, Ms. S Moscol said that, “When you study languages it’s not just grammar and how to write a sentence and how to talk to each other….when you’re learning a new language you learn a different way of thinking, a different way of communicating. even if it’s just learning the basics you’re still learning how to communicate in a different way because its not just translating and not everything translates the same.”
As you learn a new language all these upgraded skills translate to other school subjects and students may find that after learning a new language it’s much easier to study for their tests, solve equations in their algebra 2 class, and analyze articles thus increasing academic performance.
Additionally, it also fosters cultural awareness as supported by Ms. Moscol, “When you study languages its’s not just grammar and how to write a sentence and how to talk to each other. Obviously it’s a way of communication but you also learn about culture. So, I feel like if you get students to learn more about other cultures they’ll be more open minded and they’ll be more inclusive of their classmates and their friends.”
How does John Dewey High School hinder foreign language learning?
However, most students in Dewey are already bilingual and have second languages like Spanish, Russian, and Chinese and have learned them from a young age thus completely defeating the purpose of improving all the skills previously mentioned.
“There are many Hispanic and Latin students at Dewey,” said Salvadoran senior Gabriela Rodriguez. ”We want the opportunity to learn more than the language we were raised with even if the Spanish we learn growing up is NOT the Castilian Spanish we learn at school.”
If more foreign language classes at Dewey, bilingual students will get the chance to learn more about different cultures and become more culturally aware as well as have an additional mastered skill that can go on a persons resume and give them an upper hand when looking for job opportunities.
What languages should be taught?
“By offering more language classes at Dewey, we can help students embrace diversity and thrive in our globalized world,” Sophmore Minahil Syeda shared similar views to other students and staff at Dewey.
Some languages that students and staff have suggested that could be added is French, Portuguese, Italian, Bengali, Arabic, and Urdu. Overall, John Dewey High School could raise its status as a school that develops well rounded students when it comes to foreign language and increase students’ love for the school if our voices are heard.
