Top 5 Best Practices for Learning a New Language
As a trained language and writing instructor, I frequently get asked about the best ways to learn a new language. I have learned some lessons from my time teaching at Stanford and at UBC, as well as from my own experiences as a language student. I share these tips here with the hope that others may find them useful.
First, I would like to clear up the common misconception that if you are learning a language as an adult, you are doomed! This is not true. Adult language learners simply learn in different ways than infants who become native speakers of a language. Adults have the capacity to grasp grammatical concepts, to draw parallels across different languages, and so on. You can learn well, and with enough time and practice, you can reach native-level proficiency.
Here are my top 5 best practices:
The hardest part is the start.
Nothing will be as hard as conjugating that first verb, asking that first question, or reading that first story. Once you begin, take comfort in knowing that you have completed the hardest step. Romance languages, for example, rely heavily on a knowledge of nouns and verbs. Acquire as many as possible into your vocabulary, with the confidence that each step you take is leading you to increased fluency.
Constant exposure to the target language is key.
This is perhaps the most important lesson of all. Try to get into the habit of daily contact with the language (listening and/or reading), even if it’s just for five to ten minutes. Prolonged practice over a sustained period of time is the best way to yield results. If you are learning Spanish, the Stanford Spanish Language Program has a great list of online TV and radio programs from all over the Spanish-speaking world. Choose one from a country or region that interests you, and try to get in the habit of listening to it every day.
Practice in the best way for your learning style.
Every learner is different; perhaps you like listening to songs, or you enjoy reading. Maybe you will find that acquiring vocabulary with the help of technology (such as Duolingo) is useful. Find what works best for you. If watching TV or movies, put on subtitles in the target language. This will help you learn vocabulary and understand more clearly.
If you will travel soon, review some basic grammar and vocabulary before you go abroad.
It is helpful to be familiar with basic language patterns (how to ask a question, for example) before you travel. Almost all travel guides and countless websites list a few useful phrases. Take some time to learn at least 10 - 20 of the most common ones, even if you study them on the plane trip to your destination. Being surrounded by the target language will enable you to notice these patterns in live speech. You can continue with closer studies once you return from your trip.
Never let perfect be the enemy of good!
In general, language learners report that speaking is the hardest part. It is normal to be shy when speaking another language. Do not worry about making mistakes; getting words out is more important when you are learning. You will advance faster in your learning if you speak as much as possible. Remember that there is not a single person in the world who can speak all languages perfectly. In one way or another, we are all life-long language students.
Speaking in another language demonstrates courage, determination, and enthusiasm for other cultures. Be confident and don’t forget that consistent contact with the language is key, even if it’s only for five minutes each day. Lastly, be patient with yourself - you may fall out of a routine, as is normal in life. The only thing that matters is that you start again.
