TED-ED: The benefits of a bilingual brain - Mia Nacamulli

The video explores the concept of bilingualism, highlighting its prevalence and the different types of bilinguals: compound, coordinate, and subordinate. It discusses how bilingualism affects the brain, including the benefits of learning languages at different life stages. The video also covers the cognitive advantages of being bilingual, such as increased gray matter density and delayed onset of dementia. Historically, bilingualism was seen as a disadvantage, but modern studies reveal its positive impact on brain function and cognitive abilities.

What is one of the benefits of being bilingual mentioned in the introduction?

• Easier time learning mathematics

• Ability to travel more easily

• Improved physical health

• Better musical skills

Which type of bilingual is Gabriella's teenage brother?

• Compound bilingual

• Coordinate bilingual

• Subordinate bilingual

• Monolingual

According to the critical period hypothesis, why do children learn languages more easily?

• They have more free time

• Their brains are more plastic

• They have better teachers

• They are more motivated

What is one visible advantage of being multilingual?

• Better eyesight

• Higher density of gray matter

• Stronger bones

• Increased height

What was the past misconception about bilingualism before the 1960s?

• It was seen as a sign of intelligence

• It was considered a cognitive advantage

• It was thought to slow a child's development

• It was believed to enhance creativity

Which part of the brain is strengthened by the effort needed to switch between languages?

• Occipital lobe

• Temporal lobe

• Dorsolateral prefrontal cortex

• Cerebellum

What is a potential long-term health benefit of being bilingual?

• Reduced risk of heart disease

• Delayed onset of Alzheimer's

• Improved lung capacity

• Enhanced immune system