As the world becomes more accessible, learning a second language is becoming more essential. One way you can help your children acquire or improve a second language is through dual language education.
In dual language education, younger children in elementary school often experience a 90/10 split between the partner language and their primary language. Since children at this age can pick up languages fairly quickly, it’s the perfect opportunity to introduce them to a second language in their bilingual journey.
As the children reach middle or high school, their dual language education program usually falls to a 50/50, splitting the use of the primary and partner language equally.
How is a Dual Language Education Different?
Students attending a dual language education have a unique advantage of receiving a traditional education, learning mathematics, science, literature, and history, while adopting and practicing a second language to become bilingual.
In a public school or traditional education, students may have access to learn a new language through one-hour classes each day, while a dual language education incorporates this language throughout the curriculum and provides ample opportunities for students to practice it.
Who is Likely to Receive a Dual Language Education?
Right now, students receiving a dual language education fall into one of three categories:
- They are children of international parents with families in different countries
- They are expatriates or immigrants in a new country and must learn the language
- There is a necessity to become bilingual either due to the culture or a recognized importance of the skill
However, the trend of bilingual schools and dual language education programs is expected to increase in the coming years.
Benefits of a Dual Language Education
Children who receive a dual language education experience many benefits and unique opportunities.
The first and arguably most important benefit is improved cognitive development, memory, and comprehension. Studies have shown that bilingual children’s brains work differently – better optimized even – than those who speak only one language.
After receiving a dual language education, bilingual graduates often see an increase in high-paying job opportunities in the government, international business, and more.
Deciding to give your child a dual language education is one of the best decisions you can make for their livelihood and success as an adult. If you would like to learn more about our dual education programs at our bilingual school in Paris, contact us.
