2. Advance Your Career
Language skills can be a significant competitive advantage that sets you apart from your monolingual peers.
They are among the top eight skills required of all occupations- no matter your sector or skill level-and the demand for bilingual professionals is rising exponentially. In fact, between 2010 and 2015, the number of U.S. job postings specifically geared toward bilingual candidates more than doubled.
Write your reflection or opinion. What do you think about what you read?
D. Read independently and work with a partner to write a reflection or opinion about what you read. Share your answer with the class.
The many cognitive benefits of learning languages are undeniable.
People who speak more than one language have improved memory, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, enhanced concentration, ability to multitask, and better listening skills.
What do you think about the benefits? Would you like to take advantage of learning a new language?
E. Read independently and work with a partner to write a reflection or opinion about what you read. Share your answer with the class.
4. Deepen Your Connection to Other Cultures
Language is the most direct connection to other cultures. Being able to communicate in another language exposes us to and fosters an appreciation for the traditions, religions, arts, and history of the people associated with that language. Greater understanding, in turn, promotes greater tolerance, empathy, and acceptance of others--with studies showing that children who have studied another language are more open toward and express more positive attitudes toward the culture associated with that language.
Write your reflection or opinion. What do you think about what you read?
F. Read independently and work with a partner to write a reflection or opinion about what you read. Share your answer with the class.
5. See the World
Traveling as a speaker of the local language can revolutionize a trip abroad. While monolingual travelers are capable of visiting the same places, travelers who know more than one language are more easily able to navigate outside the tourist bubble and to connect and interact with the place and its people in a way that is often inaccessible to those without the language. Learning a second language also opens additional doors to opportunities for studying or working abroad.
Write your reflection or opinion. What do you think about what you read?
