I read with interest your Feb. 27 article on Massena Central School District considering the teaching of foreign languages at the elementary level. (“Teach languages in elementary? Massena schools look at Lake Placid’s example,” Watertown Daily Times, Feb. 27.) I’ve vigorously promoted this for decades because it makes pedagogical sense. I’m heartened to see the recent letters of support for early foreign language education.

But first, why does foreign language even matter?

Electronic translators and AI technology are making great strides, for better or worse (as an educator I’m afraid I lean a bit toward “worse,” but I digress). These tools can be very useful. However in my view nothing can replace human sensibilities for appropriate context, tone and cultural competence.

Having taught foreign language at the college level for over 25 years (with a few stints in grades 7-12 along the way), I know that in the U.S., foreign language is often not taken too seriously. I understand the staffing/teacher training challenges, especially for elementary schools — but that’s a multi-layered problem for a separate conversation — still, this quote from a school board member in the above referenced article is typical:

“Maybe an extracurricular offering until we catch that up … There’s maybe some kids that might be interested in it, but at what cost of taking away the resources for the mainstream things …” as if this is an “extra” only for students who are “interested,” like volleyball or Travel Club.

Most American high schools, colleges and universities do have a foreign language requirement of some kind (sadly, not a few have woefully inadequate programs). Americans still tend to dismiss its necessity:

“Who cares? Everyone in the world speaks English now anyway.” “I’m not leaving the U.S. so I’ll never need it.”

This common attitude misses the point and reinforces Americans’ reputation for disinterest in the world outside the U.S., while the rest of the world accommodates us by learning English; not to mention their constant exposure to American culture from Hollywood, American corporations and our global military presence.

I generalize here, but Americans are notorious in the world for impatiently expecting foreigners to speak fluent English not only when they come here, but sometimes even when we are guests in their country. I’ve personally witnessed this many times — Americans in other countries, repeating their statements in English, louder and louder as if this will help the listener understand. Cringe. It doesn’t have to be this way, and you don’t have to be fluent to avoid it.

Right now, Ukranian teenagers, despite living through the trauma of a horrific war, are speaking to American journalists, on camera, in fluent English. Think about that.

While it may appear from our perspective that English is (conveniently) the lingua franca of diplomacy and global business, that’s not completely true, which brings me to my first point.

We live in a global economy. Understanding foreign languages and cultures is essential. The second largest economy in the world is China. South America is a trading partner and competitor where business is carried out in Spanish and Portuguese. New York’s closest trading partner is Quebec. If we don’t have some understanding of these societies, how can we sell them our products? How can we carry out successful diplomacy?

Second, a simple Internet search provides copious evidence of the academic benefits of foreign language study. It improves memory, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, enhances concentration and increases test scores. It deepens learners’ understanding and mastery of their native language, improving reading comprehension, vocabulary, and oral and written communication skills. This matters no matter what line of work you pursue.

Third, studying other languages gives you access to information that would otherwise be off limits. Foreign news, entertainment, social media and other content are now within your reach. The rest of the world is consuming our output — we’re at a disadvantage if we can’t consume theirs. Plus, studying just one language — any language — gives you a tool box of strategies and skills that will help you navigate any foreign environment.

Finally, foreign language curriculum isn’t just vocabulary lists. It’s history, contemporary society, geography, literature, music and art, enriching “core” subjects. With today’s technology, students are directly interacting with their peers in other countries. The ability to compare and contrast cultures is essential to a good education. It breaks down stereotypes and opens our eyes to how others see the universe and why. It cultivates empathy, even within our own community.

Starting foreign language in primary grades is taken for granted in numerous countries. While many Americans, I included, successfully acquire foreign language proficiency as adolescents and adults, linguists and psychologists have known for eons how much easier it is for children under the age of 10 to acquire a second language. Again, a simple Internet search will provide ample evidence of this. I list just one source below (1). Listen to any child raised in a bilingual home as they effortlessly switch from one language to the other with no confusion and no accent.

Learning another language is akin to behavior modification. It requires changing our thinking and forming new habits, accepting a foreign system of symbols and codes. If you’ve ever tried to stop or change a habit as an adult, you know it can be intimidating, challenging and uncomfortable and the older we get, the more we tend to resist that discomfort.

We are born ready to acquire language, and under the age of 12, children’s brains are more pliable and receptive to integrating more than one linguistic system. They become more divergent and innovative thinkers. Starting early also makes it easier to add languages later, which would put Americans on par with their foreign peers, who typically have two or more foreign languages under their belt by the time they are 18.

Foreign language study is part of a decent public education and should start early. It keeps us competitive in the world. It improves cognition. More importantly, it cultivates empathy and understanding — something this world desperately needs.

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Annette Scheuer has an M.A. in French Studies and has studied German, Italian and Spanish. She taught French language, literature and culture for 25 years, primarily at the college level, but also in grades 7-12. She lives in Saranac Lake.

(1) Source: www.publicschoolreview.com/blog/benefits-of-foreign-language-education.