We need to stop telling our students to have their essays checked by a native English speaker. It doesn’t help them, sometimes harms them, and perpetuates a false narrative about writing and language.

Language is an essential part of human life and culture. It allows people to communicate, express emotions and feelings, share information, and build understanding among individuals and communities.

The language we learn growing up seems to leave a lasting, biological imprint on our brains. German and Arabic native speakers have different connection strengths in specific parts of the brain’s ...