THE IMPACT OF BILINGUALISM ON ENGLISH LANGUAGE ACQUISITION
Keywords:
Keywords: bilingualism, English language acquisition, metalinguistic awareness, cognitive development, interference, code-switching, language learning, multilingualism, communication, educationAbstract
Abstract: This article examines the impact of bilingualism on English language
acquisition, focusing on how speaking two or more languages influences cognitive
development, linguistic awareness, and communication skills. Bilingualism is
increasingly recognized as an asset in language learning, as it enhances metalinguistic
awareness and facilitates the acquisition of additional languages like English.
However, it can also present challenges such as interference, code-switching, and
uneven language proficiency. The article discusses both the advantages and difficulties
of bilingualism in learning English, emphasizing that bilingual learners possess unique
linguistic flexibility that can accelerate their mastery of English when properly
supported by educational strategies.
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