The Cognitive, Social & Cultural Benefits of Bilingualism
Bilingualism opens many cognitive and cultural pathways for young students. These benefits rest at the heart of what we accomplish at FASPS.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, bilingualism has become the norm. According to United Nations figures, up to 80% of the world’s population speaks at least two languages, and three languages is not uncommon. One-fifth of the population in the United States describe themselves as “bilingual.” Bilingualism is a hallmark of the 21st century.In the past 50 years, neuroscientists and psychologists have uncovered a wealth of scientific evidence to support the hypothesis that learning another language at a young age strengthens cognitive and linguistic development in children.
As a result of these cognitive "boosts" received early in life, students who are bilingual perform highly in academic settings. The list below highlights some of the many benefits of being a bilingual student:
- They acquire strong analytical and critical-thinking skills at an earlier age.
- They are able to focus more intently and for longer periods of time, and can switch between tasks more efficiently.
- Becoming bilingual at an early age increases vocabulary, knowledge of grammar and recognition of sounds and visual signs. This leads to better writing and speaking skills.
- Bilinguals develop flexible problem-solving abilities which strengthen their math and science skills.
- Bilingualism also fosters cross-cultural interaction; in the classroom, it is the most effective tool for promoting an open-minded and global worldview for students and creating a multicultural context for learning.
- Learning another language is fundamental to becoming fully immersed in another culture.
- Bilingualism has been linked to a lower risk for Alzheimer’s and dementia in adults.
FASPS parent Aurelie McKinstry wrote a fabulous article about her experience with bilingual education as a parent at FASPS (click here).
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Bilingual Education and America's Future: Evidence and Pathways
Authors: Lorna Porter, Manuel Vazquez Cano and Ilana Umansky, Foreword by Patricia Gándara
Date Published: June 15, 2023
This paper looks at the next 25 years of education and policy making regarding students classified as English learners (EL). Given the strong research evidence on the benefits of bilingual education and need to address barriers to opportunity experienced by English learners, this paper strengthens the case for federal, state and local education policy and action that looks toward the implementation of bilingual education as the standard service--rather than exception--for EL-classified students.
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With two campuses, one on Mercer Island just east of Seattle and the other in Factoria in Bellevue, the French American School of Puget Sound (FASPS) is a private, bilingual school for children age 2 (tiny young pre-kindergarten) through grade 8. Students benefit from a rigorous academic program, arts and technology curriculum, social and emotional learning, and a wide selection of extracurricular activities.
