Why Learn Languages

Speaking another`s language shows respect for that culture, and people in every country prefer it when tourists make an effort to speak the local language.

Speaking a new language helps you to get to know another people and culture, as language and culture go hand in hand. Learning another language opens one`s mind to new ideas and new ways of looking at the world. For example, the fact that many languages have more than one translation of "you" indicates that these languages (and the cultures that speak them) place a greater emphasis on distinguishing between audiences than does English. French distinguishes between tu (familiar) and vous (formal/plural), while Spanish has five words that indicate one of four categories: familiar/singular (tú or vos, depending on the country), familiar/plural (vosotros), formal/singular (Ud.), and formal/plural (Uds.).

Speaking a foreign language is a skill which will increase your employability. Schools and employers tend to prefer candidates who speak one or more foreign languages. Learning another language can help you to understand your own.

Years of foreign language study increase, math and verbal SAT scores increase. Children who study a foreign language often have higher standardized test scores in math, reading, and language arts. Foreign language study can also help to increase problem-solving skills, memory, and self-discipline.