Reading comprehension is a fundamental skill for language learning and communication. Reading unlocks new levels of understanding and fluency. Improved reading comprehension entails a larger vocabulary, the ability to process more complex…
You’ve decided to start learning a new language. While exciting, getting started can feel a bit daunting. What’s the right approach? How do you know what tools work for you? In this…
Which language should I study? This is one of the most common questions amongst language learners. Often, we’re torn between choices. For example, you may love the sound of French, but Chinese…
In order to speak English well you need to learn how words are used and how they come together to form phrases and sentences. Only a lot of listening and reading can help you learn this. You need to train yourself to notice how the words are used when you listen and read.
It is tempting to believe that we can just acquire a small number of very useful words and sort of get a jump start in a language. I have never found that…
You have all heard me stress the importance of input. You have to get the language in you, meaning you have to acquire words, and you have to let your brain get…
I studied Chinese in 1968. At the time I was working for the Canadian Government, the Ministry of Trade and Commerce’s Trade Commissioner Service to be exact. Canada was preparing to recognize…
I believe that listening comprehension is an important skill in language learning. That is what you should drive for first of all. If you develop good listening comprehension, the other skills will come, the speaking will come, even your grammar, your accuracy.
The myth is that there exists a battle in language learning: introverts vs. extroverts, and that extroverts are the better language learners. I do not believe at all that you need to be an extrovert to learn a language. Language learning comes down to the three keys: number one, attitude. You have to be interested in the language. You have to like the language. You have to believe you’re going to achieve your goal.
Words, acquiring words, that is the core task in language learning. Over the years, I’ve seen all kinds of theories on mastering new words, because learning words is such a big deal…
