How To Start Thinking In English? | 🎧 Podcast and Chill | Beginner

Summary

In this episode of 'Podcast and Chill on the Learn English Podcast', hosts Leo and Gwen discuss the common challenge of thinking in English. They explore reasons behind this difficulty, such as habitual thinking in one's native language, limited vocabulary, and lack of confidence. The podcast offers practical tips like describing daily tasks and surroundings in English, building vocabulary through spaced repetition, and using language learning apps. They emphasize the importance of immersion, confidence, and patience, encouraging listeners to practice regularly and celebrate small achievements on their language learning journey.

Takeaways

• 😀 It's common to struggle with thinking in English, even for experienced learners.
• 🧠 Our brains are naturally accustomed to thinking in our native language.
• 🗣️ A limited vocabulary can hinder expressing thoughts fully in English.
• 💪 Building confidence is crucial to overcome the fear of making mistakes.
• 🌱 Start small by describing your day or surroundings in English to train your brain.
• 📚 Expanding vocabulary is key to thinking more fluently in English.
• 🔁 Regularly revisiting flashcards can enhance word retention.
• 📈 Using new words daily helps integrate them into your thought process.
• 🌐 Immersion in English through listening, reading, and speaking accelerates learning.
• 🗣️ Engaging in conversations, even with apps or clubs, boosts confidence and practical thinking in English.
• 🌳 Be patient with your progress; language learning is a gradual process, not an overnight success.
• 🏆 Celebrate small achievements to stay motivated and recognize your language journey.
• 🚫 Avoid focusing on perfection; the goal is effective communication, not flawless grammar.

Q & A

What is the main challenge discussed in the podcast episode?

The main challenge discussed is the difficulty of thinking in English, especially for those whose native language is not English.

Why do people often find it hard to think in English?

People find it hard to think in English because their brains are accustomed to thinking in their native language, they might not have a large enough vocabulary to express all their thoughts, and sometimes a lack of confidence can hold them back.

What is the first tip given in the podcast to help overcome the challenge of thinking in English?

Start small by describing your day in English, listing your daily tasks, or narrating your actions.

How does building vocabulary help in thinking in English?

Building vocabulary allows you to express more thoughts in English, making it easier to think in the language as you have more words at your disposal.

What is the spaced repetition technique mentioned in the podcast?

Spaced repetition is a learning technique where you review study materials at increasing intervals over time, which helps to improve memory retention.

How does confidence play a role in thinking in English?

Confidence helps with thinking in English because when you feel good about your English skills, you're more likely to use it in your thoughts, making it easier to think in English over time.

What is the difference between learning grammar and thinking in English naturally?

Learning grammar is like understanding the instructions for building sentences, while thinking in English naturally is about using those instructions to have conversations and express thoughts.

What is the immersion method recommended for beginners in English?

Immersion involves surrounding yourself with English as much as possible by listening, reading, and speaking in the language, especially through enjoyable activities.

How can using apps like HelloTalk or Tandem help in learning English?

Apps like HelloTalk or Tandem allow you to chat with native English speakers, which is a practical way to practice and gain confidence in thinking and speaking in English.

Why is it important to be patient when learning a new language?

Learning a language takes time, and being patient allows for gradual progress. It's important to celebrate small wins and understand that some days will be more challenging than others.

What is the advice given for those who find it hard to think in English immediately?

The advice is to keep practicing, celebrate your wins, and understand that thinking in English will come with time and consistent effort.