abhijithajikumar Some experts believe that it is better for children to begin learning a foreign language at primary school rather than secondary school. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?
In many nations, the study of a foreign language is inclusive in the academic syllabus of secondary schools. Many are of the perception that it is better to commence their studies from primary school. Despite some marginal benefits this offers, the disadvantages outweigh as this could make it hectic for young minds where they should be focusing on core subjects instead.
The primary reason why people support the foreign language study in early schools is the linguistic and communicative skills that the students can acquire at a younger age. If they are being taught a new language at a primary level, chances are that they can promptly reach to a level of proficiency than starting late. This is particularly true in some English-speaking countries where French is being taught from early age, where these students later could handle both the languages exceptionally well.
However, learning an additional language at primary school can prove hectic to the already packed schedule of students. Recent times have demanded individuals to have a good knowledge in Mathematics and Science, for which a thorough base from rudimentary levels is a must. Not only does the study of a foreign language trade the time to learn important subjects but also puts greater cognitive load on children. For instance, in India, a child who begins his school has three languages to learn already in the syllabus and an added foreign language subject could make their studies hectic.
In conclusion, many people believe that children should be taught a foreign language in elementary schools as it can enhance the communication skills from an early age. But the disadvantages overshadow the advantages as an added language subject could weaken the students’ focus on other important subjects.
