How Diplomats Learn Languages
When deciding how to go about learning a language, it’s logical to turn to the U.S. Foreign Service Institute (FSI). Given the institution’s ample experience in language instruction, one can’t help but…
Learning Styles vs. Learning Preferences
Over the years, I’ve heard the same question over and over again: “Do we all learn languages the same way?” The quick answer? Yes. However, this is worth further explanation. In this…
My Top 10 Language Learning Mistakes
Language learning is a personal journey. But over time — and across more than 20 languages — I’ve noticed certain habits that consistently waste time or drain confidence. Confidence is critical to…
Learn a Language in 3 Months? Here’s the Truth
Today I want to share how I approach the very beginning of learning a language. First, let’s make an important distinction. The goal should not be to learn a language in three…
How to Become Fluent in a Language: Chunking
When we think about language learning, many of us immediately focus on vocabulary lists and grammar rules. In theory, with the right set of memorized words and structures, we should be able…
Avoid These 3 Mistakes to Become Fluent
Why People Struggle to Learn a Language Many English learners struggle with fluency despite years of study. With more resources available for learning English than any other language, why do so many…
Improve Your Comprehension with These 5 Tips
If you’re learning a language, which skill is more important: speaking or comprehension? For me, the answer is obvious. Comprehension is the foundation of language learning. You can effectively communicate despite the…
How to Learn a Language for Travel: The Dos and Don’ts
Picture this: You’re in a bustling café in Istanbul, ordering a cup of Turkish tea. The waiter asks you a question, but instead of panicking or reaching for Google Translate, you actually…
Learn a Language the Natural Way
Many language learners and teachers cling to the idea that rules are the foundation of language learning. Memorize the rules, understand the structure, and fluency will follow—right? Wrong. The truth is, our…
Comprehensible Input and Compelling Input (CI)
What is meant by comprehensible input in language learning? Stephen Krashen uses this term, as well as the term compelling input, to refer to the kind of language exposure we need in order to learn a language. The term CI, in language learning, can apply to both. What do they mean?
