Benefits of Learning a Second Language
“Research suggests that children who learn a second language early on are apt to
become multilingual, become more proficient in their native language and score better in
their achievement tests.” (Bowles) Many studies have been completed, which prove that
not only are students that study foreign language more likely to learn their native
language and excel at standard tests, but that these students will be further able to
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communicate with a larger population, appreciate foreign cultures, improve their overall
school performance, and contribute to society.
Communication
A second language not only allows people to communicate with a larger
population but also allows for benefits in the workplace. It is important in today’s society
to be able to communicate with a variety of cultures in a variety of settings. (Looking to
the Standards) Speaking a foreign language allows a person to communicate with people
they would otherwise not be able communicate with because of the language barrier.
The
ability to speak a second language also offers an advantage in the workplace because it
opens up job opportunities. (Marcos, “Why, How, and When Should my Child Learn a
Second Language”) A survey was completed of business expectations regarding foreign
language studies which stated, “international study should not be considered a separate
specialization as much as a component of academic and occupational training programs.”
(McClendon) The ability to communicate and understand other cultures is becoming
increasingly important in business society, and many employers look for employees that
are fluent in two or more languages. Speaking another language also gives one an edge
over another employee with equal training when competing for a promotion.
Improved Overall School/Intellectual Performance
Studies have suggested that students who study foreign language are more
creative and are more capable of solving complex problems than those students that do
not study a foreign language. (Marcos, “Why, How, and When Should my Child Learn a
Second Language”) These students also demonstrate superiority in divergent thinking,
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memory ability, attention span, and score higher in both verbal and non-verbal
intelligence. (Benefits of Second Language Learning) “One study showed that by the
fifth year of an immersion program, students outperformed all comparison groups and
remained high academic achievers throughout their schooling.” (Marcos, “Why, How,
and When Should my Child Learn a Second Language”)
Students that study a second
language also tend to have higher test scores in subjects such as reading, language, and
mathematics. It has also been observed that for every additional year of a foreign
language a student receives, the more likely the student is to excel at other subjects.
(Benefits of Second Language Learning)
Improved Standardized Test Scores
Research states, according to a 1992 report, College Bound Seniors: The 1992
Profile of SAT and Achievement Test Takers, students who had taken 4 or more years of a
foreign language scored higher on the verbal portion of the SAT I. (Marcos, “Why, How,
and When Should my Child Learn a Second Language”) Other more recent studies
have been conducted that further support this report. In addition to SAT I scores, SAT II
foreign language test scores as well as advanced placement examination scores for
foreign languages would increase on an average. Higher standardized test scores would
help students become accepted to college and would ensure that the student is prepared
for further foreign language studies in college. These students may even be applicable to
receive college credit for work done in high school.
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Enhancing of Primary Language
Foreign language students are at a benefit because they are able to develop a
greater understanding of their primary language. Through learning the structures of other
languages students are able develop a better understanding of how the English language
works. Second language education has been proven to significantly strengthen the
student’s primary language in areas such as grammar, vocabulary, reading, and
communication skills. (Benefits of Second Language Learning)
Many educators and parents worry that the study of a second language early in the
child’s development of their primary language, will negatively affect the progression of
this primary language. This is not the case, because studies state that the earlier a child
starts a second language, the greater the positive effect on the primary language.
(Alberta) Studies have been conducted and offer evidence “that no long-term delay in
native English language development occurs in children participating in second language
classes, even in full immersion programs.” (Marcos, “Why, How, and When Should my
Child Learn a Second Language”)
Deeper Understanding of Culture
In today’s society, it is very important to be able to look beyond cultural
boundaries. “Language, communication, and education have become the national
defense of the year 2000. Language and understanding other culture will be more critical
than ever in this new world.” (McClendon) Students that study a second language are
introduced to a great variety of culture and as a result demonstrate a greater cultural
sensitivity. In addition to this, students are provided with superior cross-cultural skills
and are able to better accustom themselves to a variety of cultural contexts. (Benefits of
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Second Language Learning)
The awareness of other cultures will allow students to better
appreciate their own culture as well as those of their peers and even strangers. In the
workplace this is a very valuable trait because foreign companies are often more
receptive to culturally aware businessmen/businesswomen.
Contribution to Society
People that are able to speak a second language are a benefit to American society
because they “enhance our economic competitiveness abroad, improve global
communication, and maintain our political and security interests.” (Marcos, “Why, How,
and When Should my Child Learn a Second Language”) Foreign relations are very
important, and there is a desperate need for qualified people who speak foreign languages
in areas such as science, technology, medicine, and global commerce. (Alberta)
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