The graph illustrates the proportion of second language learners, in particular French, Japanese, Spanish, German and other, from elementary school in New Zealand throughout the period of eight years, commencing with 2006.
Overall, it is evident from the chart that there were considerable fluctuations, particularly notable in French, German and Chinese. Additionally, French remained its position of being the most prominent language studied over the whole period.
In 2006, French was the predominant second language with the percentage just below 30. However, after experiencing some variables in figure, it rose to approximately 30 percent by 2014. In terms of Spanish, it started at around 20%, briefly achieving its peak in 2011 at 26%, finally culminating with 23%. Japanese, conversely, initiated as the second most eminent language at nearly 27 percent, succeeding with a steady decrease in the next seven years just before a dramatic increase in the end of the period, comprising 17%. Meanwhile, German language accounted for about 14% in the beginning of the period, further exhibiting a downward trend that resulted in the final representation of just over 5% by 2014.
Chinese, which started at just below 5 percent, gradually rose, overlapping with German in 2013 at over 10%, ultimately surpassing it and culminating at 15 percent in 2014. Moreover, “Other” languages category, that commenced in around 5 percent, witnessing a steady increase and ending at 8% in 2014.