Language hacks can make learning a language very helpful. Read. Write. Repeat. This is the traditional method of language learning employed by many educational institutions. Initially, it relies heavily on cramming tons of grammar and vocabulary into your head followed by forced output such as essay writing, rote memorization, or forced conversation. Once students have reached some arbitrarily mandated level of output, they are again overwhelmed by another intense cram session, this one with an emphasis on something like poetry or literature. According to Dr. Krashen’s input hypothesis, this long-established method of language acquisition is ineffective and explains why many students of foreign languages can study for several years and still be unable to speak with any level of fluency. His hypothesis promotes a more natural way of language learning, mimicking the way we acquired our native tongues. In today’s Simply CSOFT, we’ll explore some unconventional ways to learn a new language.
1. Language Hacks: Watch Disney
Disney is a great tool for language learning because of the multitude of languages into which its films are translated. For example, Disney’s Frozen’s “Let it Go” is translated into 25 languages or dialects. The beauty of a tool like Disney is that the movies are created with children in mind, so the language used is simple and straightforward – perfect for rookie learners.
2. Language Hacks: Get an International Pen Pal
This tip’s benefits are twofold. On one hand, it provides an opportunity to enhance your reading and writing skills while getting a first-hand perspective of your pen pal’s culture. On the other hand, if your sights are set on a future “stay-cation” in your target country, you may just have secured free accommodation. Check out Interpals if you’re looking to start your pen pal search.
3. Language Hacks: Make Friends with Someone also Learning Language
Who doesn’t like making new friends? Befriending someone who is also on the language learning path not only provides you with motivation and accountability, but also with a shoulder to cry on or a sympathetic ear to vent to when the process becomes maddening. A great way to find fellow language enthusiasts is to join a language Meetup in your city.
As you can see, in language learning, it’s all about immersion; surround yourself in a language bubble in order to create the most natural environment possible. Remember it’s not always the huge grandiose actions that make the difference, but the small everyday ones that can help the most. And we’re just getting started! Stay tuned for part 2 of A Layman’s Guide to Language Hacks.
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
If you’re interested in learning more about CSOFT’s globalization and localization solutions, check out our website here.
[dqr_code size="120" bgcolor="#fff"]