Why You Should Learn a Second Language

Let’s imagine a future scenario. You are on vacation in Tokyo, a city very different from Covina. Your primary language is English and you don’t know any other language. You admire the city, but a stranger walks up to you. The stranger is confused and wants to ask you a question. He speaks in Japanese. You don’t know Japanese and it quickly gets awkward. What do you do at this point? Do you ignore him and walk away? Or do you try to speak Japanese and make it more awkward? This is the moment you wish you had learned another language so that you could enjoy your vacation.

When you are in most foreign countries, you are surrounded by people whose primary language is not English. According to LEAD with Languages, “knowing the language makes you a local no matter where you are, opening up your world literally and figuratively. You will be shaped by communities. The kindness of strangers will humble you. You will build lifelong friendships. And for these reasons alone, you will see the reward of learning languages for many years to come.” Can you imagine having friends in other countries? It sounds cool right? Especially if you plan to travel as an adult.

Learning a different language can open your eyes to a whole new world of culture. You will be more able to explore new locations that you never knew existed. Or you’ll be able to go to foreign countries/states. Gain perspective by taking a trip or living your life on the other side of the world. There's so many perspectives and cultures around the world that are foreign to ours that you may find attractive or that will open your worldview.

When learning a different language, you are putting more knowledge into your brain just from learning the language. Scientists say that, “We already knew that learning another language improves our knowledge of our mother tongue, and thanks to the work of Professor Ellen Bialystok and others, we also knew that bilingualism has positive effects on the brain at both ends of life.” Languages shape what the world really is and learning another language will let you have a smarter, and more satisfying life. Not to mention, it helps build new neural pathways in your brain as you make connections you've never made before.

There are thousands of apps that will help you improve in your targeted language. One great example on your phone is Duolingo. All memes aside, Duolingo is an app that you can use daily to get better at your specific language. It has almost every language and has in-game currency for more entertainment. Here is the link: https://www.duolingo.com/

Of course, we would be remiss if we didn't mention the amazing World Languages Department here at Covina High School where you can learn Spanish, Chinese, or ASL. If you are interested in enrolling in our program, where you can earn college credits, speak to your counselor and let our expert teachers introduce you to new and exciting cultures of the world.