The question of whether American’s should learn Spanish as second language has become a contentious issue in many forums. As this is happening, it is to be admitted that apart from English, Spanish is the second most spoken language in United States. Despite the fact that some people are taking up the challenge of learning Spanish, there are still debates whether the language should be recognized as a second language rather than just a foreign language. We shall be analyzing arguments as presented by two authors on what they feel about Spanish and United States.
Reasons to Learn Spanish As A Second Language is an article by Douglas Bowe who writes to us on why he believes Americans should adopt Spanish as a second language. He highlights some of the benefits that will accrue to both individuals and the nation if they took up the challenge of learning Spanish as a second language. Some of the reasons he gives is that it is the most common foreign language spoken in America, the language is spoken in over 21 countries and the trade ties between America and Mexico. Bowe feels that having Spanish as a second language will not only boost its economic ties with other Spanish speaking nations but that it will also be a bonus to individuals who will have a larger employment scope.
Spanish in the United States: Second Language or Foreign Language? Is an article that looks at how the language is viewed in United States. With over 40 million Americans speaking the language, the author wonders whether it should be referred to as a second language or a foreign language. There is a difference in perception of Spanish being a second or a foreign language, which affects the number of people who learn the language. Spanish as a second language implies that it has been accepted as an official language in America. This means that it can be used in official meetings and even considered to be part and parcel of American languages. On the other hand, as a foreign language, it implies that it has not been recognized in United States despite its wide use. This therefore means that such a language cannot be used in public or any official meeting. Even though the language is yet to be recognized as an official US language, it is widely used in board meeting and even advertisements to lure potential customers. Courts and even government proceedings are given a Spanish translation just to take care of the needs of those who speak Spanish.
The two articles recognize the fact that Spanish is an irresistible language in United States. The country is already benefiting economically from the Spanish-speaking people in United States. This is revealed by the number of immigrants who have not only established investments in America but also allowed the United States to carry out business activities in their nations. Spanish being widely spoken in America, recognizing it as a second language rather than a foreign one will enhance the already existing ties. With numerous establishment of Spanish nature in united states, having many more people familiar with the language will save the management from getting Spanish speaking people from other nations to work in the organizations. The American populating can benefit from job opportunities being offered by such organizations.
The main issue of contention between the two articles is why the Americans need to learn the language and why it should be recognized as a second language rather than a foreign one. Reasons to Learn Spanish As A Second Language mainly highlights the benefits that will accrue to the nation if Spanish is adopted as a second language. Spanish in the United States: Second Language or Foreign Language? On the other hand, highlights some of the fears that the Americans have when it comes to accepting and appreciating Spanish as a second language. Bowe recognizes that there is a difference in behavior and relationship that is adopted by people who know more than one language. They seem to have a more sense of diversity and interaction and are hence exposed to numerous opportunities. This is contrary to those who only know English; they seem to be less informed about international matters. Their mind may be blocked to changes which may affect their level of interaction with other people. Spanish in the United States: Second Language or Foreign Language? Is an article that looks at why Americans will have a hard time appreciating Spanish as a second language. First, they believe that they are too old to learn a second language. This is because of a whole pattern of grammar they will have to adopt to and a set of new vocabularies. In the process of learning the language, there is also the challenge of culture mix which cannot be avoided.
America has been considered a state of diversity with a host of immigrants from almost every nation. The aspect of having a second language is however, what has not been adopted and accepted in the land. With many immigrants of Spanish nature, America will have to accept the fact that Spanish will do the nation more good than harm. Since it is being used undisputedly in official meetings and public, it should be accepted as a second language and the same reflected in the syllabus. Once the nation gets rid of the resisting generation, the younger generation will have a lot to appreciate from having Spanish as a second language.
Works cited
Bow, Douglas. Spanish in the United States: Second Language or Foreign Language?
Spanish in the United States: Second Language or Foreign Language?
