Why Learn a Foreign Language?
Learning a foreign language is being added to graduation requirements in many school districts. Undoubtedly it is important to have a solid grasp of the English language, but study of a foreign language is important for success as well.
Many people find it difficult to learn another language. It may not come quickly, but if they stick with it, most students will achieve a minimum proficiency. 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, what are the advantages of studying a foreign language?
Improved Overall School Performance
Research shows that studying a second language can improve your English language skills? That may not be surprising, but this might – it also improves math skills. In addition, it improves:
– memory
– creativity
– communication and listening skills
– complex problem solving
– spatial abilities
– abstract thinking.
Perform Better on Standardized Tests
There are many studies which show that foreign language learners tend to score higher on standardized tests. According to the College Board, which administers the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), students who take a minimum of four years of foreign-language study scored more than 100 points higher on each section of the SAT compared to students who took a half year or less.
Other studies relate bilingual ability with higher scores on verbal and nonverbal IQ tests.
Second language students improve their chances of college acceptance. Students are generally more successful during college and less likely to drop out.
Learning a Foreign Language Makes for A More Positive Job Outlook
Fluency in a second language can provide many employment opportunities for you. A growing number of businesses work closely with people in foreign countries, both inside their own company, or with other corporations or governments. These businesses need people who speak different languages and comprehend different customs.
Increasing numbers of of Americans speak languages other than English. In order to communicate with as many people as possible, many professionals will need to understand another 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.
Develop Cultural Understanding
The world seems to be getting smaller all the time. It’s obvious, living in the U.S., the effect of diverse cultures and lifestyles.
Studying a foreign language helps to improve communication and cultural perspective. Researchers have discovered that people who know a second language are more accepting of other cultures. The ability to discuss differences with people from other backgrounds benefits societies and improves global security.
So now you know that there really are many good reasons to learn to speak French speak Spanish or any other language. For a quick and simple way to learn french or improve your existing skills, the Rocket French program offers 6 free lessons.
Selecting Self-Study Foreign Language Materials
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Superb Chinese-English Dictionary Mandarin Characters Putonghua Pinyin Hardcover 400k Words 688 Pages The Foreign Language Press Superb Chinese-English Dictionary is unique as an accessible and user-friendly introduction to the Chinese language. Contents of this colored hardcover book format includes Tones (A-Z pronunciations) in Mandarin Chinese and Chinese-English Dictionary. Mandarin standards in China and Taiwan are distinguished. This dictionary is ideal for English and Chinese learners alik… |
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Spanish for Kids: Learn Spanish Beginner Level 1 $15.05 SPANISH FOR KIDS BEGINNER L1 V1 – DVD Movie… |
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Italian for Kids: Learn Italian Beginner Level 1 Vol. 1 $16.99 ITALIAN FOR KIDS volume 1 introduces this beautiful language to kids in a way that engages them from start to finish. Starring native speakers and 3-D animated characters, this video teaches the Italian language within the context of a fantastic birthday party – full of lively songs, delicious food and playful games. Marina and her cute puppy, Momo, clearly demonstrate useful phrases for everyday … |
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Spanish CD/ Book Set $12.74 SPANISH CD/BOOK SET… |
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Lyric Language – Japanese/English 1 [VHS] $14.95 Available in two equally exciting series. Each program includes 35 minutes of live-action music video with bilingual lyrics subtitled on the screen. Bil Keane’s famous Family Circus characters introduce each song…. |
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Lyric Language Italian/English Ser. 2 [VHS] $3.64 Used in homes and classrooms around the world. Each program includes 35 minutes of live-action music video with bilingual lyrics subtitled on the screen. Bil Keane’s famous Family Circus characters introduce each song. Features 10 songs. 5 languages available in video format, 5 languages in cassette, 4 languages in CD-ROM, and 6 languages in the joint cassette/book package…. |
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Spanish/ English Music Video [VHS] $0.99 This title includes 35 minutes of live-action music video with bilingual lyrics subtitled on the screen. Bil Keane’s famous “Family Circus” characters introduce each song. It features 11 songs…. |
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L’Auberge Espagnole (The Spanish Apartment) $4.21 L’AUBERGE ESPAGNOLE – DVD Movie… |
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Ectaco NTL iTravl MMC Memory Card for English Spanish Bidirectional Electronic Dictionary & Phrasebook $69.95 Add new languages to your handheld device with this MMC card! The card stores the full contents of ECTACO NTL iTravl Talking Electronic Dictionary and Audio PhraseBook. You need to have one of It features both state-of-the-art speech recognition and highly advanced voice capabilities powered by the latest TTS (Text-to-Speech) technology. It even goes so far as to include crystal-clear native-speak… |
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Hooked on Spanish Box Set, Ages 4-6 $31.95 Hooked on Spanish is a three-level program that teaches 4-to 6-year-olds how to speak Spanish. Using CD-ROMs for independent instruction and practice, the program also includes colorful workbooks filled with games and activities that offer kids an opportunity to introduce Spanish to their friends and family. Hosted by a cast of loveable characters, kids will have a blast learning to speak Spanish!… |