According to the passage, what cognitive benefits are associated with early exposure to a second language?
Better physical coordination
Step 1: Understanding the passage.
The passage highlights research findings that show cognitive benefits of early exposure to a second language. It specifically mentions two main advantages that bilingual children tend to have over monolingual children.
Step 2: Identifying the key benefits.
The passage clearly states that bilingual children exhibit “enhanced problem-solving skills” and “better multitasking abilities.” These are the direct cognitive improvements observed as a result of learning a second language early in life.
Step 3: Evaluating the options.
(A) Improved memory retention — Not mentioned in the passage.
(B) Enhanced problem-solving skills and multitasking abilities — Exactly matches the information given.
(C) Increased creativity — Not stated in the passage.
(D) Better physical coordination — Irrelevant to cognitive development.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Therefore, the correct answer is (B), as it directly reflects the benefits described in the passage.
Final Answer: (B) Enhanced problem-solving skills and multitasking abilities