Benefits of Learning a Foreign Language

Many high schools have added foreign language study as a requirement for graduation. You know that learning a foreign language is valuable to your student's education. But how do you answer them when they ask why they should learn French or Spanish?

Many students find it hard to learn another language. It doesn't come overnight, but if they stick with it, most students can fulfill the requirements. Giving students a choice of languages is helpful. Most U.S. students learn French, Spanish or Latin, but Russian, German and Chinese are some of the other options.

So, why study another language?

Benefits Academic Progress in Other Subjects

You might expect that learning a second 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 subjects by the time they reached 5th grade, especially in mathematics. Also, foreign language study helps:
- memory
- creativity
- communication and listening skills
- complex problem solving
- spatial abilities
- abstract thinking.

Higher 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 scored more than 100 points higher on each section of the SAT compared to students who took a half year or less.

Other studies correlate bilingual proficiency with higher scores on verbal and nonverbal IQ tests.

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 Second Language Improves Career Opportunities

There are many ways knowing a foreign language can benefit your career. More and more businesses need to communicate with individuals in different countries, whether inside their own company, or with other corporations or governments. These businesses need individuals who speak foreign languages and understand other cultures.

There are many Americans who speak languages other than English. In order to interact with as many people as possible, many professionals will need to speak 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 Understanding Of Different Cultures

The world seems to be shrinking faster all the time. Even the U.S. is steadily growing more multicultural and multiethnic.

Learning a foreign language helps to improve cultural understanding and relations. Studies have even found that foreign language learners are more tolerant of people who are different in some way. The ability to discuss differences with people from other backgrounds benefits societies and increases world security.

Whether you learn to speak French, Spanish or some other language, you now know its many benefits. For a quick and simple way to learn french or improve your existing skills, the Rocket French program offers 6 free lessons.