French, or learning languages in general, can take you to places.

Last week, it took Year 10 French students Madeleine Mullins and Amyliah Harrison to Alliance Française, French cultural centre in Brisbane where the girls took part in DELF exam (Diplôme d’Etudes en Langue Française). DELF tests are official qualifications awarded by the French Ministry of Education to certify the linguistic proficiency of non-native French speakers.

This is what the girls thought about their experience:

“The DELF examination was a great opportunity to gain important qualifications that are identified globally. This diploma will help us with future employment opportunities and help us continue our studies after school, preparing us for future travels abroad. There were four parts to the examination:  listening comprehension, written production, reading comprehension and speaking component. Even though the test was nerve-wracking and stressful, overall it was a very positive experience.” 

Why is it important to learn languages?

In the 21st century knowing a second language is beneficial for success in life. The continual globalization of the world is bringing diverse cultures and communities into more frequent contact with each other.  The ease of global travel and the internet have collapsed the barrier of distance that once kept the world’s communities separate.  From the business world to the individual consumer, from the pre-schools to universities, the world community has become integrated and interdependent.

Employers and businesses are seeking applicants who can navigate the modern global economy.  It is through learning another language that students can develop these skill sets.  Learning another language also provides many other benefits including greater academic achievement, greater cognitive development, and more positive attitudes towards other languages and cultures. Simply put, language learning is extremely beneficial for students to effectively navigate the modern world.