egionally varying entry-levels of foreign languages and annual schedule of two examinations are two long-standing focuses in challenging China's foreign language teaching. Shu Dingfang from Shanghai International Studies University (SISU) finds solutions to these challenges in his paper which was published in 2020.

“In order to make sure the theory serves practice, we should investigate teachers’ and students’ practical experiences in the foreign language, ”said Shu.

Shu finds from survey that it is difficult for students to efficiently learn foreign languages in poor areas of China due to lack of foreign language teachers and improper methods.

“While many children learn foreign languages at primary school, we do not learn until junior high school,” said Ma Ping, a high school student from Tianjin.

“Students’ initial levels of foreign language are different, but the requirements of college entrance examinations are the same. I wonder how to reach the education fairness?” said Wu Yan, a high school teacher from Tianjin.

Many teachers consider it good to have the English college entrance exams twice a year. However, this will actually impact the learning passion of senior three or even sophomores.

“If students are satisfied with the results of the first exam, they will focus less on the following foreign language classes, which is against their initial will,” said Wu.

For students who are dissatisfied with the results of first exam, the current exam mechanism will add to their learning burden.

“I am not satisfied with the first test score, so I am preparing for the second test. Doing massive exercises may help improve test scores, but I think it is not beneficial to improve my actual foreign language ability,” said Ma Jinxiao, a junior high school student from Xinjiang.

Multilingual talents are essential for China’s participation in international affairs and global governance. Outstanding primary and secondary school students from many European countries take courses of two foreign languages at the same time.

“Individuals can survive without learning a foreign language, but learning foreign languages can benefit personal development. China’s development of more than 100 years has fully proved this point,” said Shu.