Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of students and parents.

1. How long does it take to learn English?
2. Should we continue to speak our native language at home?
3. What are the advantages of being bilingual?

How long does it take to learn English?

Speaking the language takes from six months to three years.
Reading and understanding the language of the books takes longer, from three 
to seven years.

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Should we continue to speak our native language at home?

What is important here is to speak the language you are more comfortable 
with.  In most cases, the native language comes more naturally.  What helps  
the child is to hear "rich" vocabulary, in any language.  For example, 
instead of saying "show me your book" in English, it's better to talk more 
about the book in your home language.  For example, "show me the thick yellow 
book that is next to the pencil."  So, yes, you should continue to speak your 
native language at home.  This way, your child will learn both languages and 
be a true bilingual.

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What are the advantages of being bilingual?

We all need each other.  Our economy is a global economy.  People who speak 
two languages can find a job easier.  They can communicate with more people.  
They are more patient listeners and they think widely.

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