The study of a foreign language helps students develop linguistic and cultural proficiency in Spanish, French or Chinese so they will be able to function in a multilingual, multicultural world. This includes:

• preparing students to use a language in addition to English to communicate in an increasingly interconnected, global community.
• helping students understand and appreciate other cultures' world views, unique ways of living and contributions to humankind.
• equipping students to interpret a variety of resources to learn more.
• helping students understand the nature of language systems, including their own.
• preparing students to pursue languages on their own for personal enjoyment and enrichment and to advance career opportunities.

Ohio's New Learning Standards for World Languages
Ohio's Model Curriculum