Learning a foreign language is a priceless opportunity for children. This type of education not only influences and helps students in their own primary language learning, but offers them the opportunity to learn about other cultures, preps them for a global future, and can imbue them with added self-confidence as they make their way through life.
The popular opinion is that it’s best for a child to begin learning a foreign language when they are learning English, as they are more apt to absorb language at a young age. The truth is, it’s possible at any age. Many schools don’t even offer foreign language courses until students reach the middle school years. And plenty of adults discover they can learn a language too. It just takes time, perseverance, and work. Being immersed in a new language also helps.
For those who can’t move to a new country just to learn a language, the classroom is the ideal place to learn. Choosing which language to study depends on what students need in their lives today and the future.
International business continues to be a growing reality, and a global economy will certainly dictate the kinds of jobs and careers children will one day occupy. Learning other languages in school will better prepare them for whichever career path they choose. In the United States, it’s common to expect people of other countries to learn English. It’s important to keep watching the changing trends to see how being bilingual will become more essential for all students entering the working world.
On a smaller scale, parents and teachers will discover their students’ growth in a foreign language will actually accentuate their writing, reading, and critical problem solving in their own language. Learning the basics of one language reinforces concepts from students’ native language.
When a student discovers they can effectively communicate with someone who doesn’t speak their primary language, they will have a sense of fulfillment that comes with the confidence of knowing there are fewer barriers between them and understanding others in the world. Foreign language isn’t just a practical life skill, it’s a way to build a better sense of self for children of all ages.
Castle Learning currently offers Spanish and French courses, targeted to both beginners and High School students. These language subjects are organized around everyday topics with practice in vocabulary, grammar, listening and reading, all of which can help supplement the student’s experience. It gives teachers access to:
An expanded list of topics
- Authentic reading materials, such as newspaper articles, advertisements, announcements, posters, and schedules
- Full-length reading selections with a cultural emphasis
- Full-length listening selections
- Questions in the foreign language
- Audio recordings of native speakers from a variety of countries
Learning and mastering foreign languages continues to be one of the most valuable opportunities for all levels of growth.