Effective communication takes place in a variety of situations, and success depends on the student's understanding of context, building on prior experience of a similar kind. All students should be able to communicate in at least one language in addition to English. The process of learning another language provides an opportunity for all students to think in a different way and to learn to appreciate differences among people. World language teachers can best encourage such respectful attitudes if their students also represent different backgrounds and experiences. By working together, diverse learners realize that they share a need for language as a tool of expression and communication.
Culture is an integral part of world language learning .
Including the cultural component in all skill areas is important. Connecting language and communication skills with culture creates a more powerful learning experience for students. An effective world language class is student-centered. Students are actively engaged in using the language by interacting with each other and the teacher, and by communicating about things which have meaning to them. World language programs should start in kindergarten and continue uninterrupted through grade 12.