Language Lab: the Data of Learning to Speak German

Summary

In this detailed exploration of learning German, the speaker shares insights from tracking 11 one-hour sessions with native speakers on italki. By analyzing word counts, corrections, and vocabulary growth, the speaker reveals how real-time conversation, corrections, and immersion activities contribute to language fluency. Key takeaways include the importance of speaking early in the learning process, choosing the right language partner for maximum speaking opportunities, and balancing conversation with immersion activities like reading and listening. This data-driven approach emphasizes persistence and personalized feedback for mastering a new language.

Takeaways

• 😀 Track your language progress by recording your spoken words and analyzing them to understand growth in vocabulary and fluency.
• 😀 Speaking with native speakers is essential for building confidence and improving language skills, especially when combined with regular feedback.
• 😀 Corrective feedback from language partners is incredibly valuable for refining your vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.
• 😀 'Linguistic constipation' refers to the challenging phase when you struggle to express yourself, a common hurdle in language learning that requires patience.
• 😀 Immersion activities like reading, watching, and listening in your target language should complement speaking practice to enhance comprehension and vocabulary.
• 😀 Start speaking the language as early as possible to gain a practical understanding of what you know and what you still need to learn.
• 😀 Find a language exchange partner who prioritizes your speaking time, ensuring you do more talking than they do during lessons.
• 😀 Make sure your language partner provides helpful corrections without overwhelming you, striking a balance that allows for continued conversation.
• 😀 Choose a language partner who you feel comfortable with, as chemistry and mutual enjoyment play a critical role in maintaining motivation.
• 😀 Using platforms like italki is an effective way to get personalized lessons from native speakers and track progress with flexible scheduling and affordable options.

Q & A

How many words did the speaker use in their German language sessions?

The speaker used a total of 29,571 words across 11 mostly 1-hour sessions, which equals 118,284 syllables.

What is the average number of new words the speaker learns in each session?

The speaker learns an average of 290 new words per session, though this number is gradually decreasing as they progress.

How does the speaker compare their German language learning process with their previous experience in Polish?

The speaker compares the experience by emphasizing the importance of a data-driven approach, as they tracked every word they encountered in their 100-day Polish challenge. This showed them the significance of dedicated effort and study in language learning.

What does the speaker mean by 'linguistic constipation'?

The speaker coins the term 'linguistic constipation' to describe the difficult moments in language learning when you're stuck and unable to express yourself, even though you should be able to. This phase is common for most learners and requires patience to overcome.

What were the speaker's key takeaways regarding language learning through italki?

The speaker highlights the importance of having a language partner who maximizes speaking opportunities, offers helpful corrections, creates a comfortable atmosphere, and ensures enjoyable sessions. They emphasize that speaking as much as possible is crucial for language learning.

How does the speaker suggest choosing a language partner on italki?

The speaker recommends focusing on four key factors: 1) The partner should allow you to speak as much as possible, 2) They should provide constructive corrections, 3) There should be good chemistry and comfort in conversation, and 4) You should enjoy spending time with them while learning.

What role do immersion activities like reading, watching, and listening play in language learning?

Immersion activities are fundamental, as they allow learners to explore their interests in the target language, which makes conversations more engaging and relevant. The speaker emphasizes the importance of balancing speaking with these immersive activities.

How does the speaker incorporate corrections into their learning process?

The speaker uses corrections from their main language partner to improve their language skills, integrating them into Anki for review. This helps reinforce vocabulary and grammar concepts.

What is the speaker's opinion on language classes in relation to speaking practice?

While the speaker acknowledges that classes can be helpful, they argue that paying for dedicated language lessons or conversation practice might offer better value and flexibility, as it focuses more on speaking and personalized feedback.

What advice does the speaker give to introverts or intellectual learners hesitant to start speaking?

The speaker advises introverts and intellectual learners to start speaking whenever they're ready. They stress that speaking will expose what you don’t know, and it is essential for both vocabulary and grammar development.