Benefits of Learning a Foreign Language
Posted on July 18, 2009
Filed Under Learn Spanish CD, Learn Spanish Online | Leave a Comment
More and more states have added a foreign language to their graduation requirements. Students often question why they should learn French or Spanish. But studies have proved that learning another language is helpful.
It’s not easy for many students to learn a foreign language. It doesn’t come overnight, but with perserverance, most people can fulfill the requirements. Students usually prefer to pick a language that interests them. Students can learn French learn Spanish or Latin in most schools, but some other choices can include German, Russian or Chinese.
So, why study another language?
Better Scholastic Performance
You might expect that learning another language can enhance reading skills, and understanding of English structure and vocabulary. More surprising, students who began studying a foreign language in kindergarten had surpassed expected in all areas when they were in fifth grade, especially in math. Students also exhibit better communication and listening ability, sharper memory, more creativity, and better complex problem solving skills.
Perform Better on Standardized Tests
Much research had demonstrated that foreign language learners consistently outperform others on standardized tests. The College Board, which provides the SAT, says that, students who take a minimum of four years of a foreign language 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.
Second language students improve their chances of college acceptance. Students are likely to earn better grades in college and more likely to graduate.
Learning a Foreign Language Enhances Career Opportunities
There are many ways learning a second language can help your career. A growing number of businesses work closely with people in different countries, both inside their own company, or with other companies or governments. Employees are required who can communicate in foreign languages and comprehend different customs.
Increasing numbers of of Americans speak languages other than English. In order to interact with a wide range of people, many professionals will benefit from speaking another language. Some of these include doctors and nurses, social workers, police and firefighters, hotel managers, etc. Other areas where knowing a second language is either beneficial or necessary include government, the military, law, sales and marketing, travel and hospitality, teaching, translation and communications.
Develop Cultural Understanding
The world seems to be shrinking faster all the time. You can see, even here at home in this country, the effect of various cultures and lifestyles.
Understanding a foreign language teaches respect for other cultures. Studies have even found that people who know a second language are less biased against people who are different in some way. Being able to interact with other human beings benefits societies and improves global security.
These are just a few of the many good reasons to learn to speak French speak Spanish or any other language.
If you would like an easy, inexpensive way to learn or improve your french, try the Rocket French program.
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