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McKinney early education programs focus on second-language learning
By Ann J. Mena and Rafael Mena, PhD,
Special to the Courier-Gazette
An ever increasing mountain of evidence suggests that learning a second language at an early age has a positive effect on intellectual growth.
Language learning is a cognitive problem-solving activity, not just a linguistic activity. It's this cognitive challenge while learning a second language that enriches and enhances a child's mental development.
The benefits progress into their later years, as shown by an independent study of third- and fifth-graders in Louisiana public schools. This study of 13,200 students revealed that, regardless of race, gender or academic level, children enrolled in foreign language classes did better on the Louisiana Basic Skills Test than those not enrolled.
Several early education programs in McKinney are capitalizing on these scientific findings to provide an advantage to local children.
McKinney ISD established a dual language program in the 2010-11 school year. Caldwell Elementary's two-way, dual-language program is now being offered in kindergarten and first grade. Two-way immersion is a form of dual-language education that combines students from two language groups while providing instruction in both languages.
In addition, many privately owned preschools in McKinney include second-language learning as a core part of their curriculum. Full-immersion preschool language programs exist, such as that offered by Spanish Schoolhouse McKinney, that enable children to naturally learn a second language.
Studies have shown that early language acquisition is best achieved when the child is immersed in the second language. Such programs enable the child to naturally acquire the second language by enabling them to participate in daily interactive and educational activities. Second language acquisition occurs much the same way the child learns his or her native language while at the same time being able to clearly differentiate between the two languages. In immersion programs, activities that enhance the process of language acquisition are typically the main part of the curriculum.
An additional benefit of learning a second language at an early age comes in the form of children having a better understanding of their native language. According to Dr. Bialystok who led a study from Canada's York University, "The knowledge of two languages is greater than the sum of its parts." In other words, learning a second language also aids in learning one's native language.
Because children exposed to a second language are used to thinking of more than one word related to a given object in either language, they are more sensitive to language as a system made up of distinct sounds. This is true whether the second language is French, Chinese or Spanish. This sensitivity can be transferred to reading as the child learns to associate the letters in print with sounds. As a result, these children tend to also read at a higher level compared to peers who have only been exposed to their native language.
The advantages provided by learning a second language at an early age, such as a better understanding of their native language, intellectual growth and enhanced mental development, create a sustainable advantage for children.
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