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Benefits of Learning Another Language
Learning a foreign language opens new doors and opportunities to students. We receive an exposure to new cultures and explore the lifestyles of other countries. Students gain access to an entire new community of music, literature, art, film, fashion and entertainment, which allows us to have a better understanding and perspective on foreign countries and of the world.
Benefits of Learning a Foreign Language
BY STEPHANIE DOWLING
As World Language week approaches at CHS, you may ask, “Why is this all necessary?” Why do we dedicate a week to celebrating world languages and culture? Are foreign languages really that important? The answer is yes! Learning and exploring a foreign language is exciting, fun, and beneficial for all ages.
Mastering a new dialect breaks down cultural gaps and allows for communication and unification throughout the world. Advancing knowledge in foreign languages provides numerous benefits in a student’s developing life. Multilingual brains operate differently than monolingual brains. Speaking in different tongues keeps a keen, sharp, and healthy mind and allows for certain skills to improve. Better memorization skills develop in the brain when learning languages, building precious “mental muscle”.
Along with memory improvement, studies have shown that multilingual speakers become better multitaskers because their brains have to endure the constant switching between multiple languages. Through writing, reading, speaking, and listening activities, students learning a foreign language establish a stronger understanding of their native language and, thus, become more aware of the grammar, structure, and mechanics of their own natural speech.
Studies have shown that students who learned a second language score higher on their SATs and other standardized tests and expand their vocabulary skills. Students become more effective communicators and sharper editors and writers as their knowledge and use of a foreign language flourishes.
Learning a foreign language opens new doors and opportunities to students. We receive an exposure to new cultures and explore the lifestyles of other countries. Students gain access to an entire new community of music, literature, art, film, fashion and entertainment, which allows us to have a better understanding and perspective on foreign countries and of the world.
When future travel opportunities surface, knowledge of a foreign language will help with translations and allow us the chance to communicate and experience a culture unlike our own.
Another advantage to learning a foreign language comes when applying and searching for jobs in the future. People who have a background in a foreign language have a competitive edge and stand out. In the workplace, people who utilize their knowledge of a foreign language are well paid, have better benefits, and are able to bridge the cultural gap between two parties or companies.
Lastly, learning a foreign language is shown to significantly decrease the onset of neural diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia. Learning languages can truly save lives! Understanding and studying a foreign language can significantly impact your life in a positive way and prepare you for a bright future.
Be sure to thank your foreign language teachers for allowing you to experience all the benefits of having multilingual life skills!