8 unexpected advantages of learning foreign languages

It seems that learning a new language can be only in childhood, but it is not. You will need motivation and diligence. If you do not have enough motivation, eight scientifically proven benefits of learning a new language will help her gain.

1. Improving knowledge of the native language

Only by studying a foreign language, we begin to appreciate their native language. Speaking on him since childhood, we do not think about how it is built, often do not notice its beauty.

During the study,Alberta Leads the Way in Second Languages. Canadian scientists from the Association of Alberta teachers it was found that learning a second language helps to significantly improve the grammar, vocabulary and speaking skills of the native language. This is akin to the situation where you have, for example, all my life playing basketball, and later learned to play volleyball and use new skills to play basketball better.

2. improves concentration

American scientists conducted a studyBilingual brains better equipped to process information.

This ability helps to block various distractions and concentrate on a single task. Even a minimal knowledge of a second language gives significant advantages.

3. You can prevent certain diseases of the brain

From aging can not escape. However, learning a new language can prevent or delay the development of brain diseases such as Alzheimer's disease or dementia, for 4-5 yearsBilingualism delays age at onset of dementia, independent of education and immigration status.. This effect does not give even medication. Communicating in multiple languages ​​increases the number of neural pathways in the brain, because this information is processed through more channels.

4. Improve math skills

In the study,The benefits of learning a foreign language.Conducted in 2007 by the American Board of learning foreign languages, it has been found that children who learn foreign language performed better in mathematics than those who have to schedule more hours of mathematics, but not at all foreign.

No wonder, because learning the basics of another language involves logical thinking. Various mnemonicsWhich are used in the study of new words as needed in math to remember complicated formulas.

5. You learn faster

When we study a foreign language, and improves our ability to remember new informationWorking memory development in monolingual and bilingual children.. This shortens the learning period. In addition, those who know multiple languages, have the skills to better multitaskingLifelong Bilingualism Maintains Neural Efficiency for Cognitive Control in Aging..

6. You become more sociable

In dealing with other people, perhaps, it is the essence of learning a foreign language. And in order to improve speaking skills, It is best to engage with native speakers or those who already know it and also wants to practice. Everything is like riding a bicycle. To learn how to ride it is not enough simply to revise a lot of video, you need to sit down and start pedaling.

In addition, the study of language - an immersion in a new culture, the ability to look at the world from a different angle altogether and learn to empathize.

7. develops creativity

Speaking in another language, we often have to look for synonyms and build words in coherent sentences, so we knew the source. This improves skills divergent thinkingConstantly forcing us to seek multiple solutions for one problem.

Therefore, the researchers believe that people who speak several languages, are more creative than those who speak the same languageThe Cognitive Benefits of Being Bilingual..

8. Increased self-confidence

When we decide to do something and succeed, it boosts self-confidence, no matter how small the our victory. Even the ability to support a short conversation with a native speaker can make us more confident. After all, it means that we were able to do what used to be impossible for us.

Over time, this kind of thinking becomes stronger and helps you to achieve your goals in all areas of life.