October`s `You Ask the Question' : Why is it good to be bi-lingual?
[ 13 Oct 2008]Advantages of being bi-lingual:
Twice the enjoyment of reading, able to enjoy books from both countries, and understanding the different traditions.
Access to two cultures, folk stories, history and music etc.
A greater tolerance of different cultures.
Better at IQ tests, school curriculum and other tests.
Able to think more flexibly eg. words in different languages may have different meanings.
Being more sensitive to the needs of listeners as they have to know what language to use with which people in which situation.
Having a head start in reading as less fixed on word sound and more centred on word meaning.
Raises self esteem.
Strong sense of identity. Language is a strong link between people, giving them a sense of belonging.
Easier to learn further languages.
Wider choice of jobs eg. tourism and translation.
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