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WHAT IS BILINGUALISM?(双语现象)

Two thirds of the world’s population are bilingual to some extent, hence from an international perspective speaking more than one language is the norm rather than the exception.

There are varying definitions and levels of understanding when referring to a ‘bilingual person’. Generally people tend to think that
bilingualism is the ability to speak two languages. That is certainly part of the picture, however, in the context of the Italian Bilingual School, bilingualism also incorporates the ability to read and write in both English and Italian, as well as a sound understanding of the cultures which are linked to Australia and to Italy.

Bilingualism presumes the ability to read and write in two languages, however most bilinguals tend to have a dominant language. Whilst students of the Italian Bilingual School will emerge from their schooling with the ability to communicate in a variety of contexts in
English and Italian, the Australian reality is one in which English is the dominant language. It is therefore important to be mindful of this factor when monitoring your child’s second language development.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF LEARNING A SECOND LANGUAGE?

Learning a second language provides a number of advantages, not only for the individual, but society itself.

COMMUNICATION ADVANTAGES
Wider communication (extended family, community, international links, employment)
Literacy in two languages.

CULTURAL ADVANTAGES
Broader cultural understanding and multicultural sensitivity, “two language worlds of experience” (Baker, 2000)
Greater tolerance and social harmony

COGNITIVE ADVANTAGES
Thinking benefits (creativity, sensitivity to communication)
Greater problem-solving and analytical skills

PERSONAL ADVANTAGES
Raised self-esteem
Flexibility and adaptability
Confidence in social interactions
Greater interpersonal skills

CURRICULUM ADVANTAGES
Conceptual development in two languages
Transfer of academic skills across two languages.
Collaborative and cooperative learning