August 31st, 2010 | 
Author: A quick glance at today’s ‘Education’ columns could leave potential learners of French wondering if it’s really worth the effort.
An article by BBC News highlights a 45% fall in the number of pupils taking GCSE French since 2002, and suggests that Britain as a nation is gradually falling out of love with the language.
According to The BBC, most pupils decide not to study French simply because the exams are difficult, and because they doubt the relevance of language skills for future careers.
“The core reason [for pupils avoiding French] is because pupils know French is difficult to pass, and difficult to get something out of it,” language learning expert Paul Noble told BBC News.
“With French or any language, you either know how to say it or you don’t – you can perhaps be a bit more vague with subjects like religious studies,” he added.
With foreign languages no longer compulsory in many schools, it would be easy to assume that Britons have given up on language learning, and that taking French classes is something of a waste of time.
The fact remains, however, that a basic knowledge of French – even just a few words – can add a whole new dimension to your trips abroad and make your French holiday an altogether more enriching experience.
Even if you mispronounce a word or make a small mistake, French people will genuinely appreciate the fact that you tried. So don’t give up on French just yet; the warm smile you receive at the end of your first sentence will be enough to make all your efforts worthwhile.
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