Cognitive Benefits of Learning Language
DUKE GIFTED LETTER: Volume 8, Issue 1, Fall 2007
Martha G. Abbott, Director of Education for the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL)
The advantage for younger learners is that they have the ability to mimic closely the native pronunciation and intonation of a new language. In addition, literacy skills that are being developed in the native language transfer to the learning of the new language. For this reason, research studies have shown academic gains by students who have begun learning another language at an early age.
Beginning foreign language instruction as early as 3, sets the stage for students' to develop advanced levels of proficiencies in one or more languages. In addition, younger learners still possess the capacity to develop near native-like pronunciation and intonation in a new language. Finally, young learners have a natural curiosity about learning which is evident when they engage in learning a new language. They also are open and accepting of people who speak other languages and come from other cultures.
CHINESE CLASS
The Chinese class is traditional based and teaches vocabulary, pronunciation, and understanding basic Chinese. The purpose of this class is to teach children how to listen and speak Chinese at a basic level.
Class Schedule: Tuesday and Thursday
Class Monthly Fee: $120.00 Monthly
Discounted Semester Fee: $400.00
1st Semester: September - December
2nd Semester: January - April
Book Fee: $20.00 per semester
*There are no make up classes.
SPANISH CLASS
The Spanish class is traditional based and teaches vocabulary, pronunciation, and understanding basic Spanish. The purpose of this class is to teach children how to listen and speak in Spanish at a basic level.
Class Schedule: Monday and Wednesday
Class Monthly Fee: $120.00 Monthly
Discounted Semester Fee: $400.00
1st Semester: September - December
2nd Semester: January - April
Book Fee: $20.00 per semester
*There are no make up classes.