The ability to speak foreign languages, especially English, can add value to someone. Actively using English can be very useful when children enter high school, college, and the real world, which is full of global competition and challenges. For that, in fact, it is important for us to start introducing foreign languages at an early age.
There are several benefits to learning English at an early age. Children who learn foreign languages at an early age are more likely to develop better communication skills than their other peers. Children also have the opportunity to learn about different cultures and backgrounds. Research shows that by learning a foreign language, children will have a better understanding of how words and sentences work, which makes it easier for them to use their mother tongue. Children also tend to enjoy the process of learning foreign languages more, which helps them master those languages more quickly.
The introduction of English in childhood can train children’s cognitive abilities. Childhood is a golden period to learn English. At this stage, the child’s brain will experience very rapid growth and development. According to Jean Piaget, at the age of elementary to junior high school, children enter the stage of concrete operational and formal operational development, which means that they are in the process of learning logical things.
Then, how can we know that our English proficiency is getting better? The most reliable way to find out your child’s level of English is to have them take a professionally designed assessment or certification test. English language certification is required to measure a person’s English level accurately and to be able to monitor changes in levels from time to time. You can use a Cambridge English qualification to certify your level of English proficiency.
In particular, here is a list of reasons as to why a Cambridge English qualification is needed:
- Participants receive international standard competency recognition.
- Participants will be motivated to learn English comprehensively.
- Participants will have a significant advantage when proceeding to higher-level English examinations, higher levels of education, and get extensive career opportunities.
- Exams start from beginner levels progressing to higher levels so that students can gradually build confidence and competence.
- Cambridge Qualifications cover all four aspects of language skills, namely reading, writing, listening, and speaking, which is more relevant to everyday life.
- Get objective evidence from an international standardised body that shows your students can achieve competence and success in the English language program at your school.
- Cambridge English provides learning materials that support the learning process and exam preparation needs of teachers and students.
- Cambridge English is recognised and trusted by organisations around the world for its high standards of quality.
Each Cambridge Assessment English exam focuses on a Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) level, thereby helping students to improve their speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills step by step. Check out the testimony of Ms. Aprilia Eka Sari Pratama, S.Pd., as the principal of SD Budi Mulia Dua Bintaro, a user of Cambridge Assessment English provided by Mentari Assessment in an effort to improve the competence of 21st century students. For more further information about the Mentari Assessment, please visit the Mentari Assessment website via the following link:
Editor: Todd Cordy
