Foreign language programs are often one of the first items to be scrutinized and cut when elementary, middle, and high schools in the U.S. face poor performance evaluations or budget crunches. However, many studies have demonstrated the benefits of second language learning not only on student’s linguistic abilities but on their cognitive and creative abilities as well. Duke TIP interviewed several experts in the field about the advantages of foreign language learning for children. … [Read more...] about Cognitive Benefits of Learning Languages
foreign language
Foreign Language Software: An Alternative to Classroom Learning?
There is a consensus among linguists and educators that second language acquisition is valuable in itself as personal educational development, but studies have shown that children who acquire a second language tend to do better in cognitive functioning and score higher in achievement and IQ {aptitude?} tests than single language students. If your child desires to learn a foreign language, the earlier that he or she begins, the more likely that near native fluency can be … [Read more...] about Foreign Language Software: An Alternative to Classroom Learning?
Family Fun—Connecting through Languages
Okay, confession time: my idea of fun (!) is to be thrown in a country where I speak two words of the language and have to navigate my way through it by speaking to the natives. Not in English. … [Read more...] about Family Fun—Connecting through Languages
Second-Language Learning
After several decades of gradual decline, foreign-language learning is now on the upswing. Educators and businesses alike see value in knowing a second language. There are several things parents should know about second-language learning to help their children be successful in this endeavor. … [Read more...] about Second-Language Learning
Meeting Educational Needs via the Internet
Our 16-year-old son, Samuel, was identified as gifted during kindergarten. He has remained in the public school system, and we have been pleased overall with the quality of his education. However, even the best schools are unable to meet the academic interests of every gifted and talented student. Like many gifted children, Samuel has eclectic tastes and craves intellectual challenges that set him apart from his peers. By taking classes via the Internet, Samuel enriched his curriculum while … [Read more...] about Meeting Educational Needs via the Internet
Habla Usted Español?
Does your child want to learn Spanish? Or improve his or her Spanish-speaking skills? Language-learning programs overwhelm both the educational products market and the parents and teachers trying to match products to their children’s and students’ needs. With help from Ken Stewart and his students at Jordan High School in Durham, North Carolina, I’ve reviewed three audio Spanish language kits. … [Read more...] about Habla Usted Español?
Dual-Language Education for Gifted Children
What is the ideal age to introduce a second language to children? Contrary to popular belief, cognitively mature students with advanced first-language skills acquire a second language faster, as long as their motivation to learn it remains high. Middle school is not too late to introduce a second language, but the later elementary grades are ideal for a child to learn to speak the second language with an authentic accent. It is a case of better late than never. We need to focus on the potential … [Read more...] about Dual-Language Education for Gifted Children