Immersion Schools--Why French?

A local news station did a report on immersion schools a couple months ago, so check it out if you want to see how it works.

According to the Center of Applied Linquistics (CAL), learning a second language at an early age:

• has a positive effect on intellectual growth and enhances mental development
• leaves students with more flexibility in thinking, greater sensitivity to language, and a better ear for listening
• improves children's understanding of their native language
• gives children the ability to communicate with people they would otherwise not have the chance to know and encourages cross-cultural friendships
• opens the door to other cultures and helps children understand and appreciate people from other countries
• gives students a head start in language requirements for college
• increases job opportunities in many careers where knowing another language is a real asset

I have told a lot of people about my new job teaching kindergarten in French, but they all have the same questions--why French?  Wouldn't Spanish be more useful?  Yes, Spanish is spoken more than French locally, but for those who do not plan on living in Utah forever, here are some benefits of learning French:

• French is not just spoken in France, but in over 50 countries--it is spoken on every continent by over 125 million people
• There are almost as many people in Africa who speak French as people living in South America who speak Spanish
• French is an official language of the United Nations, the Olympics, and many international organizations
• It is considered a business language
• After English, French is the most commonly taught foreign language in the world
• About 50% of all English vocabulary comes from French
• In many scientific fields, most American universities require a reading knowledge of French in order for scholars to be able to conduct research.  France continues to be a leader and innovator in science and technology.  Civil engineering, space/aeronautics, medical technologies, and telecommunications are just a few areas in which France is a world leader.

There are currently only six French Immersion schools in all of Utah, but that number is growing rapidly (Utah currently has French, Spanish, and Chinese Immersion schools).  About a month ago, I observed three Immersion classes where my mission friend works as a kindergarten teacher.  When I went into the 2nd grade classroom, the teacher allowed the students to ask me questions in French to get to know me.  I was blown away at how well they were able to understand, speak, and form questions. 

Sam has received a lot of French exposure already just in our home, but I am so super excited for him to be fluent.  This is the age to learn a second language because their brains soak it up so quickly!  Really, starting in middle school and high school doesn't make as much sense compared to starting at a younger age!  When I taught middle school French three years ago, my students' comprehension and speaking abilities were far below what I observed from that 2nd grade immersion class. 

Anyway, there is my plug for Immersion schools and for the French language specifically.  I'm sure I will have lots of fun stories to tell once school starts again next fall!