105: Learning Journal # 10

[Nirshiee Arumugam]

I had always heard people say knowing more than one language enhances your cognitive abilities, thus makes you smarter, but I had never really given any importance to that statement because I wasn’t sure how accurate it was. Apparently, bilinguals are better able to ignore distractions and are better at solving logic puzzles. However, I think about myself and know this is not true..I can speak three languages, yet I get quite easily distracted! However, I think the part about being able to solve mental/logic puzzles is true because bilinguals can think and speak in multiple languages, thus their critical thinking ability is augmented. In addition, it is easier for a bilingual to learn a new language than someone who speaks only one language to learn another. I think because bilinguals have already expanded their mental abilities and exercised their brain’s capabilities, they are able to have an easier time picking up a new language. At the end of the day, knowing more than one language has many benefits, and I think everyone should learn as many languages as they can in their lifetime!