How to improve your speaking skills by yourself? The shadow boxing technique! (Subtitles)

Summary

In this video, Zoe, a language enthusiast and PhD student, shares her proven techniques for improving speaking skills in multiple languages. She emphasizes practical methods such as shadow boxing, focusing on pronunciation, and using real-world content like podcasts and YouTube videos to immerse in the language. Zoe offers tips for learners with limited time, showing how consistency and structured practice are key. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced learner, Zoe's advice helps you build confidence and fluency in any language you choose to learn.

Takeaways

• 😀 Shadow boxing is a powerful language learning technique where you repeat words, phrases, and conversations as if you’re speaking to an actual person, helping to train your brain to speak more naturally.
• 😀 Focusing on correct pronunciation from the start is essential, especially for sounds that don’t exist in your native language. Practice difficult syllables frequently to ensure clarity in speech.
• 😀 Consistency is key! Stick to a structured study plan and practice regularly, even if you only have 30 minutes a day, to see real improvement in your speaking skills.
• 😀 Using language learning apps like Anki, Google Translate, and Reverso can be helpful to practice pronunciation and get immediate feedback on your spoken language.
• 😀 It’s important to practice speaking out loud, not just reading silently. This helps build muscle memory for correct pronunciation and rhythm in your speech.
• 😀 If you don’t have access to a language exchange partner, you can still practice by talking to yourself about topics of interest. Imagine real-life situations and respond as if you’re conversing with someone.
• 😀 Using real-life resources like podcasts, TED Talks, and audiobooks helps you understand how the language is used in context, enhancing both your speaking and listening skills.
• 😀 Don’t obsess over achieving a native accent. Focus on clear pronunciation and effective communication. Accents vary even among native speakers, so embrace your own accent.
• 😀 Shadow boxing with short videos (1-5 minutes) is great for intensive listening practice, while longer videos (over 10 minutes) are ideal for general listening exercises.
• 😀 When using videos or texts for practice, always aim to read aloud, imitate pronunciation, and record your voice to track progress and improve accuracy.
• 😀 Choose topics that interest you to maintain motivation and ensure you’re learning vocabulary and structures that are practical and relevant to your life.

Q & A

What is the main method Zoe uses to improve her speaking skills in different languages?

Zoe uses a method called 'Shadow Boxing', which involves repeating words, phrases, or full conversations as though you're speaking to someone. This trains the brain to speak spontaneously and naturally.

How does Zoe suggest beginners should focus on pronunciation when learning a new language?

Zoe advises beginners to focus on correct pronunciation right from the start. She recommends using resources like apps or Anki decks that provide pronunciation guides, and repeating the words out loud. Recording your voice can help track progress.

What is the difference between pronunciation and accent, according to Zoe?

Pronunciation refers to how each syllable of a word is spoken correctly and clearly, while accent refers to the rhythm and melody of speech, which can differ by region or country. Zoe emphasizes focusing on clear pronunciation, rather than striving for a native accent.

How can sentence practice help improve speaking skills?

Sentence practice helps by teaching learners full phrases and their context, not just individual words. Zoe suggests imagining real-life situations where you would use the sentences, which helps with applying them in conversation and improving fluency.

What resources does Zoe recommend for intensive listening exercises?

Zoe recommends using short videos (1-5 minutes) with subtitles or transcripts for intensive listening exercises. This allows learners to focus deeply on pronunciation, intonation, and rhythm by repeating phrases and words.

How can learners practice pronunciation if they don’t have a language exchange partner?

If learners don't have a language exchange partner, Zoe suggests using apps like 'Super Chinese' or tools like Google Translate to check and score pronunciation. Recording and comparing one's own voice to native speakers is also a helpful practice.

Why does Zoe emphasize the importance of consistency in language practice?

Zoe stresses that consistency is crucial because language learning requires regular practice. She notes that practicing randomly or infrequently won’t lead to significant progress. Daily practice, even for short periods, is more effective in the long run.

What role do topics of personal interest play in language learning?

Zoe highlights that choosing topics of personal interest—such as history, politics, or hobbies—helps keep learners motivated and engaged. It also makes language learning more relevant and enjoyable, which is essential for long-term success.

What is Zoe’s strategy for improving listening comprehension?

Zoe's strategy for listening comprehension includes using both short and long videos or podcasts. She uses short videos (1-5 minutes) for intensive listening and longer ones (10+ minutes) for general listening, always focusing on understanding the content while repeating unfamiliar words and phrases.

How does Zoe incorporate reading and listening together to improve language skills?

Zoe combines reading and listening by using transcripts or subtitles. She reads the text several times while listening to the audio, focuses on pronunciation, and then practices reading aloud with the video or audio. This dual approach strengthens both listening and speaking skills.