Key messages from International Language Week 10-16 August
Speaking only one language is like a grey, dull winter � it�s time to Spring into the colour and variety of learning other languages!
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Speaking other languages will take you places � mentally, physically and emotionally. Speaking international languages opens up jobs, friendships, travel, and new ways of thinking and expressing yourself.
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Every child should have the chance to learn a foreign language at school.
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Languages belong in the core curriculum.
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Learning a language isn�t just about a short taster course � it needs to be ongoing and cumulative.
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With languages, little and often is best � half an hour four times a week is better than a two-hour block once a week.
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Language learners need regular and ongoing classes. The number of hours of class time relates directly to their success.
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International studies have shown that people who can speak more than one language do better across the whole curriculum.
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In the international marketplace, speaking more than one language gives people a competitive advantage.
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International language skills boost success in business.
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English is a bit like vanilla ice cream. It�s everywhere, it�s nice, it�s basic. But there are so many more flavours and tastes out there! Why not try them?
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Everyone masters one language (their first, or mother tongue), the second (or third!) might be even easier!
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This is the communications age � and languages are the heart of communication.
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You are never too old, or too young, to learn a new language. (There are manyexamples of older people successfully learning languages, and of primary or pre-school language classes).
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Studies show that people who learn other languages tend to be more flexible, more reasonable and more broad-minded. They understand!
Lots of ideas, competitions, events and greetings at http://www.international-languages-week.org.nz/
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