Should grade 12 University level English be a requirement for entry into all university programs?

Why the English class you might dread is so important

English is to date the most widely spoken and written language in the world, with approximately 4.8% of the population speaking it. Now, I know that percentage may not seem like much, but it tallies to about 1.35 billion people. Living here in Canada, you will almost never hear any other language being spoken, with the exception of French. It goes to show how oriented we already are in the language since birth and how important it is to be knowledgeable in the language, considering anything else you are learning is based in the language; from school, to work, to watching movies, to reading books. That goes to ask the big question; should grade 12 University-level English be a requirement for entry to all University programs? I'm here to explain why I think anyone who plans to go to University should have those credentials. 

For starters, I totally understand if English is one of your least favourite classes, I get it. I say that because I know that feeling all too well. I actually grew up only speaking French for the first six years of my life. Afterward, I went on to attend a French elementary school, then High school. In grade 11, I made the big decision to switch over to an English public school, and boy did I struggle. I never realized how difficult almost every class would be without just one language. Even math was hard! It took some practice and I did decide I wanted to try my best to stick to University level courses, so I switched to the ENG3U class. When I tell you I had no idea what to expect, I really had no clue what the curriculum consisted of at all. I had never written a proper essay or even fully read an English novel (which is quite terrible of me). I had no idea that I would end up learning so many skills from one class! English has ended up being one of my favourite classes to date and I have improved so much to the point I feel more confident having mature conversations and even writing blogs. 

Okay, now back to the real topic. University English is not just simple reading and writing. It helps improve communication skills, making connections when reading between the lines, your speeches and essays will improve dramatically, and your vocabulary will soar. When you decide to attend University you are expected to exceed at the highest level in whatever major you decide. Furthermore, in every class you have, whether it be: math, science, psychology, even art, you are consistently reading important lessons and papers: essays, charts, lab reports, biographies, etc. 

Your teachers want to see your best skills in a written and verbal format, having a prominent understanding of the English language and showing that in your work could potentially give you better grades. 

Not only does the ENG4U class teach you those skills, but it also prepares you for the heavier workload you'd be receiving in University.

Lastly, having these skills will follow you even after University. I say that because certain professions will even look for that one person who speaks in a more professional tone of speech and someday that English class you hated taking might help you get your dream job. So if you ever feel like reconsidering that grade 12 English class, try and put into perspective how significant it will be to your future. 

To conclude this blog, I completely understand that University is not for everyone and even though it is important, it should not be mandatory unless you plan to attend University. There are so many opportunities out there and personally, whether you're in post-secondary or not, English will have a large impact in everyday life no matter the circumstances. I hope this helped to grasp a better understanding of the ENG4U course and its significance.