1. It keeps your brain healthy as you age
Numerous studies have shown a clear correlation between bilingualism and reduced incidence or later onset of dementia. Being bilingual appears to keep the brain healthy and better able to resist the effects of ageing.
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2. It can give children an academic advantage
Children have no difficulty in acquiring more than one language, provided the input is consistent.
In terms of mother-tongue literacy, studies have shown that schoolchildren who receive good quality instruction in a second language tend to outperform their peers who do not.
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3. It improves your employment prospects
Speaking more than one language gives you access to a wider job market and can often result in higher pay.
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4. It gives you access to more than one culture
Bilingualism provides a window into the culture that is otherwise impossible. It introduces you to alternative ways to express yourself and adds depth to your understanding of the human experience.
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5. It improves your understanding of your native language and makes it easier to learn a third
Learning a second language helps you reflect on your own language. The understanding of how language works, coupled with the experience you have already gained of second-language learning, makes it all the easier to learn a third.
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SBS National Languages Competition is back
The SBS National Languages Competition 2019 starts on Monday, August 26th till September 27th.
In its fourth year, the nationwide competition is open to Australians of all ages who are learning a language, including English and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages.
Entrants can submit their stories at sbs.com.au/nlc19 – with either a drawing or a written entry answering the question: “How does learning a language make a world of difference to you?”
Communicating with loved ones? Travelling to your dream destination? Or impress your friends?...tell us how does a language make a world of difference to you and you could WIN one of the five major prizes as well as be eligible for a weekly random draw to receive an Apple watch.
