The Benefits of Learning a Second Language

The Benefits of Learning a Second LanguageName:Institution:
The Benefits of Learning a Second Language
Is it necessary to be bilingual in this age when globalization is rapidly impacting how different cultures relate? According to Marian and Shook (2012), language is central to every aspect of human life. It is a primary asset that man can not do without because it is essential in communicating personalized thoughts and feelings. Furthermore, language is important in connecting with other people, and uniquely identifying with their cultures besides understanding the world around. Because of all the rudimentary benefits of language, there is need to create a rich linguistic environment through learning of more than one language (bilingual) in order to reap the benefits presented by a richer linguistic scope. As a result, majority of the world's population is trying harder to be bilingual or multilingual (Marian & Shook, 2012). In spite of the growing interest from some people to become either bilingual or multilingual, there are others who associate second languages with loop-holes of plotting to weaken and alleviate first languages. This essay will discuss the benefits of learning a second language. However, it will also cover the counter-arguments which will include the disadvantages of being bilingualism.
The argument about whether to advocate or suppress second language learning in elementary schools is based on two principle counterarguments. Those opposing learning of second language believe that its learning causes adverse interferences to the learner's ability to effectively obtain proficiencies of a native language (Hakuta & Garcia, 1989). This means that learners are at risk of loosing their cultural identity and the proficiencies of conversing in their first language at an early age. On the other hand, the proponents of learning a second language rest their belief and trust on the addictive bilingual theory which assert that a second language does not inhibit academic potential of leaners, but instead influence higher academic excellency among learners (Selling, 2011). Taylor and Lafayette (2010) note that students who take second language instructions score at or higher than their non-second language learning peers on achievement test. Moreover, Taylor and Lafayette (2010) claim that this category of leaners accrue better skills to communicate in the second language, indicating a possibility of a casual relationship between academics, communication abilities and learning of a second language.
The most important benefit that is associated with learning a second language is its ability to inspire increased cognitive ability among leaners (Stewart, 2005). Research has pointed out that, children who study a second language have higher chances of becoming better problem solvers and more creative in contrast with their peers who do not learn a second language (Marcos, 2001a). This is likely to be attributed to the fact th...