Note before you read this article: Everyone has their own take on effective ways to learn a language. Because of this, last summer I decided to try distilling fundamental truths about language learning that all, or at least most, language learning experts would agree on.
This is the eleventh lesson. You can watch the video here, listen on Spotify here, or keep scrolling down to read a summary. You can see all 12 lessons by clicking here.
Feel free to contact me at https://azrenthelanguagenerd.com/contact if you have any questions about language learning or if you’d like to inquire about taking private/small-group lessons
Here are the main points I cover in this episode.
Don’t only rely on cramming or rote exercises. A common mistake people make is they try to cram new vocabulary into their brain by drilling flashcards or repeatedly writing and re-reading notes. This is helpful to an extent, but has diminishing returns over time.
Get lots of comprehensible input: I’ve talked about this already in this 12-part series. Listen/read lots of material that is interesting and at your level. It’s important.
Do lots of speaking and writing (i.e., output.) Pair your input with speaking and writing activities. Engaging in conversations and practicing writing will help reinforce new vocabulary.
Study intensively. Intense, extended learning sessions tend to yield fast results. I personally do one intensive 3-6 week burst a year where I spend 3+ hours a day, 7 days a week, learning my target language.
Use “Just-in-Time” learning principles. Prioritize learning words and concepts you'll immediately use in real-life situations. This method tends to help information stick better compared to “just-in-case” learning methods, which involves acquiring knowledge for potential future use.
I shared more advice than this in the video/podcast.
Go watch it on YouTube or listen to it on Spotify if you have not done so already!
If you have any questions/comments or if you’d like to inquire about taking private/semi-private lessons, contact me here.