Listening

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Helpful Words and Phrases

Listen and repeat.

  1. focus on (someone/something)
    • ex. The news report focused on the politician’s personal life instead of his achievements at work.
  2. bilingual
    • ex. She grew up in a bilingual family and learned two languages at home.
  3. a lifetime
    • ex. Their friendship is something they will remember for a lifetime.
  4. mental
    • ex. Stress can affect a person’s mental well-being.
  5. bilingualism
    • ex. Many schools support bilingualism in the classroom.

Article

Read the article below and answer your tutor's questions.

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For many years, scientists have studied whether learning and using more than one language can help protect the brain as people age. Their research focused on people who were bilingual from childhood. Professor Ellen Bialystok from York University in Toronto says using two languages over a lifetime can make the brain stronger and more resistant to mental decline. This idea has changed how scientists view language learning and aging.

Now, researchers say learning a language later in life can still be useful. Bialystok encourages adults of any age to study a new language as a form of brain exercise, similar to puzzles or brain games. She says it may not create the same protection as early bilingualism, but it keeps the brain active and engaged.

A recent study in the journal Nature Aging looked at 87,149 healthy people aged 51 to 90. Results showed that people who spoke more languages had slower brain aging. Judith Kroll from the University of California, Irvine, says older adults can learn new languages and gain benefits. Meanwhile, scientists say more research is needed to know how language lessons in midlife affect mental skills.

This material was based on an article by The Associated Press.

Discussion

Choose a topic and discuss the questions with your tutor.

Bilingual People and Bilingualism

  • In your opinion, what are some good reasons to become bilingual besides brain health? Discuss.
  • Do you think schools should encourage bilingualism more? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • Why do you think using two languages can make the brain stronger? Discuss.

Aging and the Brain

  • Do you agree that learning new things helps the brain stay strong? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • Would you like to learn a new skill or language when you are older? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • In your opinion, what is the best way to protect the brain as people age? Discuss.