With the numbers opting to take languages dropping sharply since it was made optional, what will persuade 14-year-olds to learn French?
The traditional line revolves around widening career options, gaining an insight into another culture, and enabling the learner to ask what platform they need for Lille.
But what if Thierry Henry, the French striker, strolled into class and all you could say was “Hello, I’m a cauliflower?” Or when rushing for the toilet in France you entered a blast furnace instead? Or worse, you found yourself being squashed by the Eiffel Tower?
Judging by the entries to the Laftas, the film competition run by Cilt, the national training organisation for languages, these are the type of scenarios that could persuade pupils to study languages.
Teenagers had to send in two-minute video clips, 150 of which are now on YouTube. While some are surreal, many revolve around the classic teen staples of bad hair, getting laid, or grisly death.
The winners will be chosen by a judging panel that includes Eddie Izzard and Sir Trevor McDonald.
http:www.youtube.comRoutesintoLanguages