Language plays an essential role in people’s life, providing opportunities to access a wider career path. Thus, there are many individuals who argue that students should start to learn a language very early in school whilst other individuals contend that these subjects should be introduced later, such as in middle or high school. This essay will elucidate the two points of view and why students should not study language early.
On one hand, there are several reasons why some people think it is beneficial for students to study language early. The main reason is that picking up new languages helps them easier to foster an understanding of different cultures, histories, and perspectives, promoting empathy and global awareness among students. Learners get the chance to meet different people and explore different parts of the world. Another reason is languages not only enhance cognitive development, improve problem-solving skills but also can significantly broaden student’s career opportunities. For example, in Vietnam, students that use a second language fluently such as English, Chinese or Spanish can apply for a good job such as English teacher, translation or tour guide with a high income.
Nevertheless, I agree with people who argue that language should not be taught early. Accessing the language at a young age can cause loss of balance between their mother tongue and this language, potentially leading to confusion or a lack of proficiency in either. Moreover, early language instruction might place unnecessary cognitive pressure on young children, especially if they are still communicating fluently in their first language. This could lead to a situation where they are neither fully comfortable nor proficient in either language, which may affect their overall academic achievements and self-esteem. One example is students that study in international schools could not communicate other languages, even their mother tongue despite learning that at a young age.
In conclusion, although studying a new language is beneficial since enhancing an understanding in diverse cultures and opening a wide career opportunities, I firmly believe that students should not learn the second language during childhood since it leads to loss of balance between their first language and new one and placing unnecessary cognitive pressure on young children.