Learning Journal #9

[Yuqi Shuai]

Bilinguals are not necessarily smarter in the sense of intelligence, but are more adaptive to new environment, more open-minded to approach a problem, and in better shape in controlling an environment or solving problems. Different languages have different grammars and different usage of words can utilize more part of our brains, thus improving the “executive function” of the brain which is “a command system that directs the attention processes that we use for planning, solving problems and performing various other mentally demanding tasks” (“Why Bilinguals Are Smarter”, New York Times). Learning a new language just as learning a new instrument or any other creative subjects can train different parts of the brain to allow us to be a better monitor.