Some people believe that schools should choose a foreign language as a compulsory subject, while others think that it should be an optional subject. Although this trend can bring several disadvantages, I strongly believe that it can have more potential benefits.
On the one hand, there are some drawbacks which are caused by the above trend. Firstly, forcing pupils to learn foreign languages like required subjects can cause a number of mental health problems, such as having a sense of stress, even getting depression. If students experience long-term pressure due to learning foreign language which they do not prefer and gifted in, students can get bad academic performance, leading to depression, even suicide. Secondly, many foreign language programs are ineffective, because they focus excessively on grammar and theoretical knowledge rather than practical communication. This teaching method makes foreign languages boring and difficult for students to acquire language skills.
On the other hand, I firmly concur that this tendency can bring significant advantages. One major advantage is that by studying foreign languages, such as English, pupils will have more job prospects to get a substantial income. For example, despite the fact that my older sister has just graduated from National Economics University, she has got the large earnings of $1200 per month, thanks to having the 8.0 IELTS Certificate. That salary is four times higher than that of a fresher without English in Vietnam. Moreover, achieving a new foreign language helps students broaden their horizons. Students, who can communicate fluently, exchange easily useful information, and helpful knowledge with foreigners from different nations, therefore, they can be more knowledgeable about a large number of cultures, customs, and religions.
In conclusion, this trend can bring both disadvantages in terms of psychological health issues and ineffective curriculums, and advantages regarding career opportunities and more understanding. However, I think that the benefits of studying foreign languages will outweigh the downsides.