English native speakers unfairly branded
I don't really agree that the English "can't be bothered" to learn languages, since everyone learns at least one language at school, many learn two, and people living in many parts of Wales, Scotland and Ireland learn their language. In the past, we may not have focussed on language-learning, and just relied on English, but that's changed now, so everyone else should realise that we are willing to learn. Some people may not enjoy learning languages, but they have done so for a few years at school, so they should be credited for that, and given a chance to use it.
Sent by: Ellie
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Although I gave up both German and French after gcse due to wanting to pursue a different sort of career, I agree with this comment, it is impossible for an English speaker to learn all the languages of the world and at the moment the one that is most commonly understood.
To say all English native speakers cannot be bothered is far too wide a generalisation considering the many,many millions there are on the planet.
@Aurora
German-Americans are the biggest ethnic group in the country. Not having that language as a choice would be a slap in the face to most Americans.
I agree Ellie. I learnt French, German and Italian at school and then continued my studies at University with a degree in French and two wild modules on Spanish and Italian. I think it's very important for schools to offer languages and to support learners as far as possible. Keep up the good work!
It's not true that everyone learns at least one language in school. In the US, anyway, most schools have foreign languages as electives, and most people really can't be bothered. Sometimes it's the school that can't be bothered - many schools don't even have foreign languages. Our local school has two - Spanish and German (when will you use German in the US?), but I know if there were any significant budget cuts, they would be the first classes to go - them and music. Of course, music and foreign languages have been proven to increase grades and test scores. But who ever said politics made sense? What's more ironic is that most of the people who take foreign language classes are in the top of their class (although not all of the top of the class takes languages). It might be because they are more ambitious, or because they understand it better, but I don't think it's a coincidence. I do think, however, that it is an overgeneraliztion that they should save for those people who really can't be bothered - and there are plenty.
I agree Ellie. I work in a call-centre taking calls in another language. Like many people I just took the time to learn the hard way! Language classes in my local adult education programmes are always full of eager Brits. Thanks for sticking up for us :)
I also agree. I am Scottish but don't speak a single word of Gaelic, however I speak fluent Esperanto and sufficient French. At my school only three languages - French, Spanish & German - are available to learn. I really wish people in the rest of the world would open their eyes and see that some people in the UK want to learn more languages, however they simply aren't available to be learned.
I am very willing to learn. I'm an American, who is attempting to learn Welsh and Irish. I agree we are unfairly branded.
I love learning languages! They are great, people just need to give other cultures a chance because once you know more languages you can understand people. I agree with you Ellie, and Brandon, im taking German right now in School and love it.
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