10x your vocabulary growth with this language challenge

Summary

Steve Kaufmann, a language learning expert, shares the power of reading books to enhance language skills. Drawing from personal experiences in Mandarin, German, and Turkish, he emphasizes that to fully enjoy reading in a foreign language, you need to understand most of the words, which requires a certain level of proficiency. Kaufmann advocates for using tools like LingQ to track vocabulary progress and encourages learners to take part in challenges, such as the 'Read a Book Challenge.' His message is clear: reading books, combined with motivation and the right tools, can dramatically boost language learning.

Takeaways

• 😀 Reading a book in a foreign language is a powerful way to measure your language proficiency.
• 📚 To enjoy reading a book in a foreign language, you need to understand at least 90-95% of the words.
• 💪 Personal experiences of reading books in languages like Mandarin and German can greatly boost your confidence.
• 💡 Books are inexpensive and accessible, and you can even borrow them from libraries, making reading a cost-effective learning tool.
• 🚫 Motivation is a key factor in language learning success, and without motivation, language progress may stall.
• 🌍 English proficiency in countries like Japan is low due to the lack of practical need for the language in daily life.
• 💬 If you can read a novel, you likely have the necessary vocabulary and knowledge to speak in the language as well.
• 🧠 The brain can adapt to a language through massive input, which makes speaking less of a risk when you're ready to do so.
• 📱 Using tools like LingQ helps manage vocabulary and allows learners to track progress through statistics while reading books.
• 🏆 Joining challenges like the LingQ Book Challenge can motivate learners to achieve their language goals, like reading a book in the target language.

Q & A

What is one of the most powerful ways to improve your language level according to Steve Kaufmann?

Reading a book from cover to cover on paper is one of the most powerful ways to improve your language level.

Why is reading a book in a foreign language challenging for beginners?

Reading a book is challenging for beginners because you need to understand 90-95% of the words to be able to guess the meaning and enjoy the experience.

How did Steve Kaufmann feel after reading 'Loto Xiangzi' in Mandarin Chinese?

Steve Kaufmann felt a great sense of achievement and confidence after reading 'Loto Xiangzi,' despite not understanding every word.

What is the significance of reading a book in terms of language learning?

Reading a book helps build vocabulary and provides a sense of satisfaction. It also serves as a clear indicator of one's language proficiency.

How does Steve Kaufmann view the English proficiency level in Japan?

Steve Kaufmann believes the English proficiency level in Japan is often overstated, and that a B2 level, as claimed by some sources, is unrealistic for many Japanese speakers.

What motivates people to learn languages, according to Steve Kaufmann?

Motivation to learn languages can come from various sources, such as the desire to communicate internationally or to live in a foreign country.

What role does risk-taking play in language learning, according to Kaufmann?

Risk-taking is not essential for language learning. Kaufmann suggests that if you have enough language input, speaking becomes easier and less risky.

How does reading a book in a foreign language correlate with speaking ability?

Kaufmann believes that reading novels helps acquire vocabulary and familiarity with the language, making it easier to speak when the opportunity arises.

What is the 'read a book challenge' at LingQ?

The 'read a book challenge' at LingQ encourages members to set a goal of reading a book in their target language, either from LingQ's library or independently. It serves as a motivator and a community-driven activity.

Why is it important to combine reading a physical book with a digital version in LingQ?

Combining a physical book with a digital version in LingQ allows users to track their progress, look up unfamiliar words, and access statistics, enhancing their language learning experience.