At Lake Stevens High School, completing two years of world language study is a requirement for students aiming to attend certain colleges. This requirement is more than a box to tick; it plays a crucial role in preparing students for their future.
Learning new languages can help students understand and appreciate different cultures from all around the world. In these classes at Lake Stevens High School, they can learn about the different cultures and people who speak a certain language, as well as taste the food of the country and culture.
“It could be accent issues that could throw off some people and how to pronounce the word, such as in some languages like Spanish, they roll their “R’s”. For some people, it’s very hard to do that,” senior Bryan Hansen said.
Studies have shown learning a foreign language can enhance certain abilities, such as problem-solving skills, memory and creativity.
These might not seem like crucial things in high school, but they can help out in the future. Knowing languages can help people land different types of jobs because they can communicate with their customers. Learning more than the English language can also help with studying abroad.
“The language requirements support students by teaching them how to speak the language and learn the language that is abroad, learning the language and helping them understand the culture around them,” senior Giselle Mata-Villa said.
Additionally, colleges often offer study abroad programs for students who want unique learning experiences. Having a solid foundation in a world language allows students to fully immerse in a different culture.
The two-year language requirement also serves as a benchmark for college readiness. Completing this requirement demonstrates a student’s commitment to their education and willingness to challenge themselves academically.
Lake Stevens High School language teachers make sure that they leave the students with valuable skills and opportunities, making them well-rounded and competitive in both their academic and professional interests.
