Researchers have found that people with very strong second language skills think differently from monolinguals and perform certain cognitive tasks better. Read about what this means for your students.

The Study
In this study, people with very strong second-language skills were asked to perform tasks such as organizing and categorizing. Their results were compared to a control group of monlinguals. The second language learners performed faster and more efficiently. 

"Findings are very important because they show an unknown aspect of bilingualism, which goes beyond linguistic advantages, and they also show bilinguals are more effective in responding to certain stimuli," said Cesar Avila, one of the scientists involved in the study.

What This Means
These findings show that students must get to a higher level of language proficiency. These language skills are important not only to interact with the English-speaking world, but also to get a significant cognitive advantage.

How you Can Make It Happen
Simply put, expect more from your students. Language courses need to take students beyond traditional "advanced levels" and push them higher. We have often heard that instructiors should expect more from their high-level students, and many experts recommentd bridge-level courses, and now there is scientific evidence that this is necessary. 

Pearson Longman Can Help
Course materials at the highest levels of proficiency should demand more from students. Challenging materials, such as Advanced Reading Power and Learn to Listen, Listen to Learn can give your students the edge they need. Learn more about these intensive programs, and then request a sample copy today.