choosing a second language in America 

For some Americans who want to learn a second language, deciding which language to learn might not be easy. Benefits are well-documented, but second-language acquisition is easier for some than others. Many might not have grown up speaking a second language at home or early in school but still want to learn. Language learning is an interesting topic for me, so I would like to offer a perspective. 

If you are in this situation, how would you choose a second language? 

Genuine Interest vs. Usefulness

Let’s start with genuine interest. You want to be genuinely interested in learning the language because you will naturally be more motivated to learn. However, the younger you are, the lower the stakes are for learning, so there is more flexibility. So, if language learning is something that interests you but makes you nervous, do not worry. 

Regarding usefulness, if you find that learning a different language is more useful later, you can try using the language learning strategies you acquired previously in order to learn the third language. Learning from your previous mistakes might make language learning easier for you later. Ideally, your desired target language would also be very useful for you, but sometimes this is not the case.

Geographic Practicality

In America, there are many ways to learn a second language. However, some languages are more geographically feasible. For instance, let’s say you are in Texas and want to learn Icelandic. You somehow became fascinated with this language. Though Texas is very diverse, you will find more native speakers of Mexican Spanish than native speakers of Icelandic in this state, for example. Communicating with native speakers of a target language in the actual language is invaluable for language fluency. Especially if you are not able to travel to the foreign country where the language is spoken. Thus, it will be harder to acquire Icelandic and find native speakers unless you travel or live closer to Iceland. In this case, it might be more practical to consider learning another interesting language before Icelandic. I do not dare discourage you from learning your language of interest, however. These are just considerations; not laws.

I hope you consider this post good food for thought.

May you be blessed.

Yours Truly,

Dear Youth Global

Elizabeth Hart