World Language
KMS World Language
Benefits of Being Bilingual
Learning a second language at an early age
- Has a positive effect on intellectual growth
- Enriches and enhances a child's mental development
- Leaves students with more flexibility in thinking, greater sensitivity to language, and a better ear for listening
- Improves a child's understanding of his/her native language
- Gives a child the ability to communicate with people s/he would otherwise not have the chance to know
- Opens the door to other cultures and helps a child understand and appreciate people from other countries
- Gives a student a head start in language requirements for college
- Increases job opportunities in many careers where knowing another language is a real asset
(reprinted from the Center for Applied Linguistics)
World Language Statement of Philosophy
Keene School District envisions a future in which all students are prepared with the knowledge and skills to live in, prosper, and enhance the global community by:
- Training students to be good citizens of the world=better understanding of different cultures and societies
- Providing early study of foreign language=advanced, deeper language skills at higher levels
- Using language in real life, meaningful contexts=true proficiency
- Recognizing that brain research indicates early elementary school age as an optimal window for increased cognitive and effective language development
- Involving students in earlier language study=motivation for advanced language learning in middle and high school
- Fostering early language skills=development of higher order thinking skills, divergent thinking, and creativity