Learning second language has becoming a mainstream due to globalization. Some people believe that there are more benefits to learn a new language at an early age, while others argue that its more efficient to start later life. This essay will include both of perspectives and my point of view.
The compelling reason why learning new language in early childhood is that the brain is more adaptable and receptive in young age. Children tend to learn second language more intuitively and have no fear to make mistake. A research conducted by Harvard University indicates that, children exposed to second language before the age of 7 were more likely to achieve native-like pronunciation than those whom learn later. It is supported by critical period hypophysis. This is supported by Critical Period hypothesis. (Personal example)
On the other hand, adults have better meta-cognitive skill to catch a foreigner language more effectively. With a clearer learning goal and stronger motivation, it shows a similar performance as whom learn in earlier age. For example, a study illustrates that adults pick up the grammar rules consciously and apply them accurately which can be apply in former writing and academic settings.(Personal example)
I highly encourage people who like to learn second language starting in early childhood since new language stimulates neurological development and brain plasticity. Children have a strong capability to adapt the pronunciation and easily achieve phonetic accuracy.
In conclusion, to be a wise language learner, exposing to second language in earlier childhood is more likely to be an accent-free speaker, while sustained learning is another vital factor to be proficient.
Learning second language has becoming a mainstream due to globalization. Some people believe that there are more benefits to learn a new language at an early age, while others argue that its more efficient to start later life. This essay will include both of perspectives and my point of view.
The compelling reason why learning new language in early childhood is that the brain is more adaptable and receptive in young age. Children tend to learn second language more intuitively and have no fear to make mistake. A research conducted by Harvard University indicates that, children exposed to second language before the age of 7 were more likely to achieve native-like pronunciation than those whom learn later.For instance, my nephew began learning english at the age of three in bilingual kindergarten. At that time, he had no fear of speaking correctly and pick up accents, tones, and vocabulary naturally through daily conversation with foreigner teachers which helped him become confident and fluent over time.
On the other hand, adults have better meta-cognitive skill to catch a foreigner language more effectively. With a clearer learning goal and stronger motivation, it shows a similar performance as whom learn in earlier age. My father, in contrast, started to learn Japanese in his 40s due to work-related need. Despite his late start, he managed grammar and vocabulary effectively, achieving conversational fluency within a year. Because of his mature metalinguistic awareness and the dedication of time to practice make up for a late start.
I highly encourage people who like to learn second language starting in early childhood since new language stimulates neurological development and brain plasticity. Children have a strong capability to adapt the pronunciation and easily achieve phonetic accuracy.
In conclusion, to be a wise language learner, exposing to second language in earlier childhood is more likely to be an accent-free speaker, while sustained learning is another vital factor to be proficient.