The Nexus

As technology makes communication in our increasingly globalized world faster and easier, the need for a strong education in foreign language becomes greater than ever.

However, due to the complexity of languages and their components: grammar, pronunciation, spelling and vocabulary, second languages require years to acquire.

Westview offers a long-term course path for Spanish, French and Filipino. Taking a single language all the way from the beginning 1-2 level to an AP class takes four or five terms. Though Westview’s class times are longer than the average, learning languages necessitates extra time in order for students to better develop speaking skills.

For students to achieve the knowledge that modern times demand, Westview students must have the option of year-long, rather than term-long, language classes similar to math classes like Algebra 3-4 Extended and linked AP classes.

Offered over the entire year, language classes would allow students who have a passion for languages to understand the course’s material with greater depth.

According to the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages, language programs must start early and take place over a long period of time in order for students to become truly proficient speakers.

Therefore, schools such as Poway and Ranch Bernardo with year-long classes actually benefit students, especially those who seek to take and succeed on AP language exams or respective SAT Subject Tests.

Although California’s education budget is small, language skills are vital and the benefits of year-long language classes would outweigh their increased price.

Close to the border, knowlege of languages is critical. According to the 2006 U.S. census, nearly 35 percent of the California population speaks Spanish at home.

Getting a successful start on building a foundation in foreign language before college is also a goal for many students. Most selective colleges have language requirements for both admission, and later, graduation.

But if Westview students complete their language requirements in their freshman or sophomore years in high school, they will soon forget the language. When they enter college, students might have difficulty picking up where they left off, or may even have to start re-learning the language from square one.

However, if students opted to take year-long language classes, there would be less time to forget what they’ve learned and more time to really grasp the basics.

However, Westview’s block scheduling inhibits its foreign language program. In order to meet world and nation-wide need for communication, Westview needs the option of year-long language classes.