Speaking to the Future in 1000 words
Speak to the Future is launching a new national challenge for languages this autumn, with the message that we should aspire for everyone to have at least 1000 words in another language.
And no, this is not about vocabulary learning. It’s a way of communicating to non-specialists that even early levels of communication are valuable. We’re not expecting everyone to be fluent. We need something measurable, and after all, A2 on the Common European Framework is not exactly the catchiest marketing slogan! We believe that a 1000 words represents a realistic and worthwhile target for all. Speak to the Future has created a badge of commitment for everyone that supports this goal, which can be downloaded from the website.
The 1000 words challenge is just one of a package of new measures that Speak to the Future will be promoting this autumn, under the leadership of former ALL president, Bernardette Holmes, who has been appointed Campaign Director. Following OCR’s withdrawal from Asset Languages exams in lesser taught languages, Speak to the Future will also be taking forward a project to provide accreditation in a wider range of languages and is encouraging everyone to write to their MP to get languages on the agenda in parliamentary circles.
For further information, and to get involved, have a look at STF’s updated website at www.speaktothefuture.org