Why Learning a Foreign Language is Important
Learning a foreign language is being added to graduation requirements in many private and public schools. You know that studying a foreign language is valuable to your child’s education. But how do you answer them when they ask why they should make the effort to learn French or Spanish?
It’s not easy for many students to learn another language. It may not come quickly, but if they stick with it, most people will achieve a minimum proficiency. Giving students a choice of languages is helpful. Students can learn French, Spanish or Latin in most schools, but Russian, German and Chinese are some of the other options.
So, what are the benefits of learning another language?
Improve Academic Performance in Other Subjects
Research shows that learning another language can enhance reading skills, and knowledge of English structure and vocabulary. More surprising, students who started learning a foreign language in kindergarten did better than expected in all subjects when they were in 5th grade, especially in math. Also, it improves:
– memory
– creativity
– communication and listening skills
– complex problem solving
– spatial abilities
– abstract thinking.
Better Standardized Test Scores
Much research had demonstrated that foreign language learners consistently outperform others on standardized tests. According to the College Board, which administers the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), students who completed at least four years of foreign-language study showed improved performance of at least 100 points on each section of the SAT compared to students studying a half year or less.
Other studies correlate bilingual ability with higher scores on tests of both verbal and nonverbal intelligence.
Study of a foreign language increases the college admissions rate. Students are likely to earn better grades in college and more likely to graduate.
Learning a Foreign Language Improves Career Opportunities
There are many ways learning a foreign language can help your career. A growing number of businesses work closely with people in foreign countries, either within their own company, or with other companies or governments. Employees are needed who speak different languages and comprehend different customs.
There are large numbers of people living in the U.S. whose main language is not English. In order to interact with a wide range of people, many professionals will benefit from speaking a second language. Here is a list of some of these jobs: government, military, translators and interpreters, medical personnel, social workers, teachers, police, firefighters, marketing, hospitality and many more.
Gain Insight Into Other Cultures
The world seems to be getting smaller all the time. You can see, even here at home in the U.S., the effect of various cultures and lifestyles.
Learning another language teaches respect for other cultures. Researchers have discovered that people who know a second language are less biased against the differences among people. The ability to exchange ideas with people from other backgrounds benefits all countries and increases world security.
Whether you learn to speak French speak Spanish or some other language, you now know why its a such a good idea. For a quick and simple way to learn french or improve your existing skills, the Rocket French program offers 6 free lessons.