The importance of considering students’ cultural and linguistic backgrounds: Languages are friends, not enemies! certamente l’italiano e’ l’amico di tutti!

Abstract

Every language represents a different worldview, a different way to see the world and life. Language is a door that allows us to have access to a distinct reality that provides us with the opportunity to expand our horizons. Also, it gives us the opportunity to grow as human beings, which is one of the many reasons why second language (L2) learning should be interesting and exciting. Moreover, it should be characterized by our own personal development. In this paper, the importance and value of language is emphasized as well as the benefits of second language (L2) learning, for example, the learning of Italian in Mexico. Being bilingual is to be enriched by two languages and cultures. Therefore, it is underlined in this article that L2 learning does not mean abandoning our first language and culture. In other words, quality and real bilingualism must be about honouring and respecting our own language and culture while enriching ourselves through the learning of another language and cosmovision. This can be achieved through culturally relevant teaching where students’ cultural and linguistic backgrounds are considered in their L2 learning process. By doing so, cultural and linguistic diversity as well as sensitivity would be promoted. Let’s not forget that languages are a great tool to bring the community together as languages are friends, not enemies!