Why World Languages?

Why take a World Language …?

1. … Because 6-to-8 credits are required for the Academic and or Technical Honors Diplomas.  70% of Penn students are currently enrolled in a world language.

2. A minimum of 2 years is required for admission to most colleges and universities.

3. Most world language students receive at least two semesters of college credit from the placement exam in college after completing three or four years of a language at Penn.

4. Students of world languages score higher on the math and verbal portions of the SAT. (The College Board SAT, 2003).

5. Opportunities to study abroad through the GAPP Program (German) and the IU Honors Program (Chinese, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish).  Every couple of years travel exploration trips are planned to countries that speak the languages taught at Penn.

6. Knowing more than one language gives applicants a competitive edge in the job market.

7. It's fun!

What should the student expect?

1. You will learn a second language in exciting new ways, using technology and focusing on communication.  Learning a language is not just learning grammar and vocabulary.  Language is learning new sounds, expressions, it is learning about a new culture.

2. You will be speaking, reading, writing, and listening every day in class.

3. Practice! Learning a second language is a skill like playing the piano or playing soccer… the more you practice, the better you become.

4. The World Language teachers pride themselves on creative lesson plans, integrating technology, and incorporating the newest teaching techniques to ensure success for every student. 

5. Kingsmen tutors will be available for many of the classes for those students who need extra help.