EDL: Learning Languages to Travel
Posted on 30. Sep, 2009 by Mrs Moorhouse in Español, Languages
Ross D shared his thoughts on why he learns Spanish in our special EDL assembly on Friday. Here’s what he had to say.
Being able to travel, fully immerse oneself in the country you are visiting and appreciate the culture… is a rare… yet hugely useful skill.
Being able to “go native”, taking part in the everyday life of regular people, allows you to get the most out of your travels and visits.
Of course, we all know it is possible to travel anywhere these days without speaking the native language; English will probably get you through your week without too much embarrassment.
However, with that said, the language barrier can be anywhere from mildly frustrating… to dangerous and intimidating. Having studied a foreign language, you will feel comfortable in ordering food, understanding directions, being able to fully travel on public transport and possibly even save considerable money – maybe even being able to barter for things in shops and markets, for example – something you certainly can’t do in English.
This is all very well in theory, but certainly requires practice. My ability, or lack of, to follow Spanish directions was highlighted rather unfortunately on last year’s Spanish trip… Not even mentioning the fact that I wasn’t once able to obtain my desired flavour of ice-cream throughout the entire week…
But despite this, many people will always appreciate it when you communicate in their language – or in some cases, like mine, at least try to!
Written by Ross D
Photograph by Mariano Grueiro
One Response to “EDL: Learning Languages to Travel”
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SuziB
Sep 30th, 2009
What an eloquent young man. You made some v good points and I wish you well in your languages studies.
Madame Bewell Languages teacher, York