Multilingualism

Benefits of second language learning, which Alberta Education has referenced:

Intellectual Potential
Students fluent in two or more languages score higher in both verbal and non-verbal intelligence.

Scholastic Achievement
Second language students have higher test scores in reading, language and mathematics.

Effect On First Language
Second language education significantly strengthens first language skills in areas of reading, English vocabulary, grammar and communication skills. The earlier the start, the greater the positive effect on the first language

Citizenship
Students studying a second language have superior cross-cultural skills and adapt better to varying cultural contexts.

Economic Potential
There is an urgent requirement for qualified speakers of languages other than English in areas of science, technology, medicine, human services and global commerce.

Health Benefits
In addition to the above benefits, learning languages is good for our health and well-being. Recent scientific studies on the brain have shown that learning a second language can help to slow memory loss or dementia.