As language teachers, we so often hear people tell us that they studied a language a long time ago–in high school or college– but have forgotten everything they once knew. They usually go on to say that they had learned the rules of grammar but were always afraid to speak the language. And then afterContinue reading “Reactivating a language you learned before”
Category Archives: Uncategorized
Raising a bilingual child
Many parents would like to give their children the opportunity to speak more than one language, and I am often asked what the best approach is to raising a bilingual child. The simple answer is that there is not one best way because there are so many variables that should be taken into account. ItContinue reading “Raising a bilingual child”
Eight tips for learning another language
Why study another language?
Many people wonder whether it’s worth the time and effort to learn another language. Language learning is hard work, and even after many years of studying and practicing, most learners will not sound like a native speaker. Some people also think that with the availability of technology resources (AI, Google Translate, etc.) learning another languageContinue reading “Why study another language?”
Practicing your language in real life
When you are studying a language, one of the most difficult things is to begin conversations with speakers of the language you are learning. Whether it is ordering a cup of coffee in a coffee shop, selecting a meal in a restaurant, asking for directions, or buying a train ticket, it can be very scaryContinue reading “Practicing your language in real life”
Motivation
“Going to a country where you don’t speak the language is like wading into the sea when you can’t swim – it’s intimidating at first, not impossible, and ultimately manageable.” Stewart Stafford There are many factors that play a role in the language learning process, including both external factors, such as opportunities for learning theContinue reading “Motivation”
Accuracy versus fluency
“Do you know what a foreign accent is? It’s a sign of bravery.” – Amy Chua As you begin learning a new language, there are so many things to work on: pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary, culture, and so much more! One thing to bear in mind is that it will take a long time to master aContinue reading “Accuracy versus fluency”
Comprehension precedes production
Have you ever been part of a conversation in your new language where you feel you mostly understand what is being said but it’s impossible to get a word out and participate in the conversation? You’re not alone! For most language learners, it will take some time to acquire enough language passively (i.e. to beContinue reading “Comprehension precedes production”
Strategies for learning vocabulary
“A different language is a different vision of life.” Federico Fellini Learning a new language starts with some first steps: learning the basic structure of the language and how sentences are formed (grammar), practicing the sounds of the language (pronunciation), and acquiring new words (vocabulary). Although it sounds daunting at first, it can be excitingContinue reading “Strategies for learning vocabulary”
Discover the world through language 