Potomac Stories

What gives students a brain a boost, expands their horizons, and opens up a world of opportunities? Learning languages! At Potomac, World Languages (Chinese, French, Latin, and Spanish) are taught from fourth through twelfth grade. As students grow, they build on their understanding through repetition, practice, and integration of new words, sounds, and structures. Students read books and work on group and individual projects. Eventually, emphasis is put on more advanced written and oral comprehension through engaging activities.

Studying world languages offers a wealth of advantages that extend far beyond simply ordering food when visiting a different country or asking where the library is. Learning languages opens minds. Here, Potomac’s approach is rooted in developing our interest in, and appreciation for, diverse cultural perspectives. 

Here are the top 10 benefits that help students go beyond the basics in our World Languages Department:

1. Enhanced Cognitive Skills: Language learning is a workout for your brain! It strengthens cognitive functions like memory, problem-solving, and multitasking abilities. Think of it as mental gymnastics that keeps your mind sharp. A 2019 study in the Journal of Educational Psychology investigated the relationship between bilingualism and executive function skills in children. These skills, such as attention, working memory, and cognitive flexibility, are essential for academic success. The study found that bilingual children outperform monolingual children on tasks that measured executive function skills, suggesting that language learning can enhance these crucial cognitive abilities.
2. Improved Communication Skills: Surprisingly, studying a new language can improve your communication skills in your native tongue. It makes you more aware of language structures and nuances, leading to clearer and more effective communication overall. At Potomac, one example of how we support students with this is by having them present to their classes, aligning with the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages’ (ACTFL) goals of using language in three modes of learning: interpersonal, presentational, and interpretive.
3. Increased Cultural Awareness: Language and culture are inextricably linked. Learning a language opens a window into different cultures, fostering empathy, understanding, and a broader perspective on the world. Potomac’s Core Value of respect is a key component here. Cultural competence - one of our four life skills we teach at Potomac - is woven into our curriculum. Classes often visit communities that speak the language. Field trips, food studies, and guest speakers are also a part of our cultural learning. 
4. Better Academic Performance: Research suggests a correlation between foreign language study and improved performance in other subjects, particularly English and math. A meta-analysis by Armstrong and Rogers found a positive impact of foreign language study on English language arts achievement. Similarly, studies have indicated that learning a second language can enhance mathematical problem-solving skills, likely due to the cognitive benefits associated with language learning, such as improved analytical and critical thinking. These cognitive benefits strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills that benefit academic performance across the board.
5. Expanded Career Opportunities: In our increasingly globalized world, bilingualism is a highly valued asset in numerous professions. Knowing another language can give you a competitive edge in the job market and open doors to international careers. Alumni who use foreign languages in their professional lives often visit our classes to share their experiences with students. 
6. Boosted Confidence: The ability to communicate in another language is a significant accomplishment that can boost self-esteem and confidence. It empowers you to connect with people from different backgrounds and navigate new situations with ease. Studies on motivation in language learning often emphasize the role of self-confidence. A 2019 study in the Journal of Language and Linguistic Studies examined the relationship between self-confidence and English proficiency among Korean university students. The findings indicated that self-confidence was a significant factor in students' motivation to learn English, which in turn influenced their language proficiency. Opportunities to participate in peer tutoring – such as the Upper School TLC (The Language Center) – give students ways to help each other.  
7. Enhanced Travel Experiences: Knowing the local language transforms travel from a superficial experience to a truly immersive one. It allows for deeper connections with locals, a richer understanding of the culture, and a more authentic travel experience. School Year Abroad is offered to juniors at Potomac in Italy, Spain, and France. There is also a rotation of Potomac-led summer travel programs organized by the World Language Program teachers.
8. A Deeper Understanding of Your Own Language: Studying a foreign language provides a new perspective on language in general, including your own. It makes you more aware of the intricacies of grammar, syntax, and vocabulary, leading to a deeper appreciation of your native language.
9. Improved Listening Skills: Learning a language requires careful listening, which hones your ability to focus and discern subtle differences in sounds. These improved listening skills can benefit communication in all aspects of your life.
10. Lifelong Learning and Personal Growth: Learning a language is a rewarding and enriching experience that promotes lifelong learning and personal growth. It fosters a love of learning and opens new avenues for exploration and self-discovery. There is an opportunity to learn more than one language, which is the graduation requirement. Potomac also partners with Global Online Academy (GOA) for seniors to learn level 1 Arabic and Japanese. 

Having the opportunity to learn a language in school is an investment in anyone’s future, offering a multitude of benefits that will enrich your life for years to come.