Most French speakers can relate that when they are engaged in conversations, and it is discovered that they are bilingual or speak French, the most common response is “You do? I wish I continued with French when I was in school”.
Most students are required (in Ontario) to take French as a subject until the 9th grade and it’s an unstated fact that the majority choose to no longer continue when they finally have the option not to. So why do students drop French? What is it about the class/language that make students so eager to drop this class? I’ve heard many arguments ranging from unpopular teachers and teaching styles, to lack of interest. Could it be that the benefits of learning French (especially while living in Canada) is not a main focus? Are our teachers spending time on providing insight on the rich diversity of French culture globally? Or how it can be useful for future opportunities (career and personal). It’s arguable that when we enter the workforce or begin to travel, the true value of knowing another language begins to make much more sense.
Having the opportunity to learn another language in our schools is not only an asset as it challenges us to think differently but French is the only language along with English spoken on ALL 5 continents :).
My challenge to teachers/ language instructors is to not only re-introduce the passion and countless benefits of the French language, but to help students think beyond the classroom. We should no longer treat French as just another subject, but rather as a tool that once we add to our tool belts, can increase the potential and opportunities that students can have access to.
Happy learning!
