Lesson Topic: Analyze how each paragraph develops the main idea of a text Question 1:
Read the essay below. As you read, think about how each paragraph develops the main idea of the text.
Many students dread completing foreign language credit requirements. The thought of learning a new language just seems too difficult
However, this challenge is definitely worth the effort. Learning a foreign language is demanding, but highly rewarding. A foreign language will
help you explore the world, build a strong resume, and even make yourself smarter.
One of the most obvious benefits of learning a foreign language is the enhanced ability to travel that comes along with it. Sure, people
around the world are learning English, but even more speak Spanish and Mandarin Chinese, and thousands of other languages exist. If you
really want to experience another culture and travel beyond the touristy areas, knowing the local language will help. Even if you're not an expert
in the language, locals will likely appreciate your effort. Whether you need to handle an emergency situation or simply read a menu, you'l be
glad that you took the time to study before leaving home.
Even if you never leave the country, knowledge of a foreign language can benefit you by strengthening your resume. Today's employers are
looking for bilingual workers. As the economy becomes increasingly more globalized, businesses value employees who are able to
communicate with customers around the world. Other companies need workers who can interact with immigrants who have not learned
English. Studies have found a 5-20% increase in pay for bilingual workers. This means that a strong background in a foreign language might
help you get a job and even get paid more for it.
Finally, learning a foreign language can make you smarter. All of the hard work that goes along with learning a language gives your brain a
workout, which makes it stronger. This allows you to enhance your critical thinking and problem solving skill. In fact, research has found that
students with four years of foreign language study score hundreds of points higher on the SAT. This effect is so strong that bilingualism is now
thought to delay the onset of dementia. So even if you rarely use the language itself, simply studying it can pay off in other aspects of your life.
Next time you go to sign up for classes, don't forget about foreign languages. Whether you decide to study Spanish, French, German,
Chinese, or any other language, you're bound to have a great experience. Although it will take time and effort to learn a language, it will pay off
in the end, whether you want to travel abroad, make money, or simply get smarter. Good luck... or buena suerte!
Question 2:
What is the central idea of this text?
It is important to learn a foreign language so that you can travel to different parts of the world.
O Bilingual people perform much better on standardized tests.
Learning a foreign language can help you travel, make money, and get smarter.
Learning a foreign language is one of the most difficult things you can do.