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Why study languages?
Learning languages and finding out about other countries can be fun, as well as useful, and this free course, Why study languages?, is an introduction to the differences in culture and language about which we all need to be aware. There are 10 independent sections: any selection of them can be studied in any order. Some are about why knowledge of other languages and cultures can be important; others are about what it's like to study a foreign language or to have a career using a foreign language. The course is aimed at secondary school students, age approximately 11-16.
Course learning outcomes
After studying this course, you should be able to:
- give examples of how language is related to culture in local, national and global contexts
- describe some traditions related to different cultures, using words from the relevant languages
- explain the importance of learning languages and being aware of cultural differences
- develop strategies for improving foreign language writing and speaking skills
- identify the opportunities for studying languages at school and post-compulsory education.
First Published: 10/08/2012
Updated: 13/08/2018
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