how to learn a new language on your own! (a guide) ⭑

Summary

This video offers a comprehensive guide for language learners, detailing a three-part approach to mastering a new language. The presenter emphasizes the importance of pre-study preparation, including setting goals and familiarizing oneself with the language's sounds. The script suggests using digital flashcards, watching content in the target language, and practicing daily routines with subtitles. It also touches on the significance of learning basic grammar, conjugation, and common phrases. The presenter shares personal tips, such as journaling in the target language and finding a language learning partner, concluding with the advice to practice speaking with native speakers when possible.

Takeaways

• 📓 Start with a dedicated notebook for language learning notes, and a separate one for vocabulary if possible.
• 🎯 Clearly define your goals for learning the language, whether it's for travel, work, studies, or personal interest.
• 🗣️ Begin watching content in the target language to familiarize yourself with pronunciation and common sounds, even if you don't understand it yet.
• 📚 Research basic information about the language, including grammar, pronouns, verbs, and the 100 most common words.
• 🚀 Use platforms like Duolingo to build a strong foundation in the language and learn the basics effectively.
• 📅 Organize your study schedule realistically, setting aside specific times and days dedicated to language learning.
• 📈 Focus on vocabulary by learning specific topics such as daily routines, basic phrases, personal introductions, numbers, and everyday vocabulary.
• 📝 Practice writing sentences with new vocabulary to reinforce learning and check them with a reliable translator.
• 📖 Journal in your target language to challenge yourself to express thoughts and ideas in a new way.
• 👥 If possible, find a language learning partner to practice speaking and texting in the target language.
• 👂 Improve listening skills by watching children's TV shows, which often use simple vocabulary and are easy to understand.
• 🗣️ For speaking practice, focus on phonetic basics and common pronunciation mistakes, and practice with native speakers when possible.

Q & A

What is the speaker's initial experience with learning French?

The speaker started learning French at the age of 13 without any formal instruction, using resources found on the Internet.

What does the speaker recommend for language learners to do before they start studying the language?

The speaker suggests watching content in the target language, even if they don't understand it, to help with pronunciation and internalizing the sounds and common vocabulary.

Why is it important to have a notebook for language learning according to the speaker?

A notebook is important for organizing language learning notes and specifically for vocabulary, making it easier to review and find new words during the learning process.

What should language learners do to define their goals for learning a new language?

Learners should establish clear reasons for learning the language and what they aim to achieve, whether it's for travel, work, studies, or personal interest.

What is the role of 'Duolingo' in the speaker's language learning process?

Duolingo is used by the speaker for learning the basics of a language, as it is effective for building foundational knowledge.

What digital flashcard app does the speaker mention and how does it work?

The speaker mentions a digital flashcard app that shows a word in the native language and, upon clicking, reveals the word in the target language. Users can indicate if they knew the word or not, and the app will continue to show cards until the user gets it right.

How should language learners organize their study time according to the speaker?

Learners should set realistic goals for the amount of time they can dedicate to studying and choose specific days to study, depending on their schedule, to maintain discipline.

What basic language sections should learners focus on according to the speaker?

Learners should focus on listening, speaking, reading, writing, vocabulary, and grammar as the fundamental sections of language learning.

What is the speaker's advice for practicing vocabulary?

The speaker recommends watching daily routines in the target language with subtitles and reading children's stories to acquire new vocabulary in a context that is easy to understand.

How does the speaker suggest practicing grammar and writing?

The speaker suggests focusing on pronouns and verb conjugation initially, and then writing 10 sentences with new vocabulary at the end of each session to practice conjugation and expression.

What are some of the speaker's tips for improving listening and speaking skills?

The speaker advises watching children's TV shows for simple vocabulary and easy understanding, and practicing speaking with a native speaker or language partner if possible, while considering phonetic basics and common pronunciation mistakes.