Stop Memorizing: How I Became Fluent in English from Zero

Summary

This video chronicles the speaker's journey of learning English as a second language, from struggling in high school to achieving fluency in an English-speaking environment. The speaker shares insights on the importance of both input and output in language learning, emphasizing that speaking and understanding the language are key to mastering it. Drawing on personal experiences, including the silent period and learning from mistakes, the speaker offers practical tips such as watching TV shows with subtitles and practicing speaking with others. The video concludes with advice on how to approach language learning with confidence and persistence.

Takeaways

• 😀 Learning English is a journey that requires both input (reading/listening) and output (speaking/writing) for fluency.
• 😀 The silent period is a natural phase in language learning, where learners absorb the language before actively speaking it.
• 😀 Language learning is not just about grammar and vocabulary; it's also about getting your message across, even with mistakes.
• 😀 Confidence in speaking, even with imperfect English, is crucial to making progress in language learning.
• 😀 Watching TV shows, movies, and using materials designed for young children in English helps immerse you in the language in a fun, natural way.
• 😀 First language acquisition focuses on message delivery, not grammar precision, and this should be applied to second language learning.
• 😀 Practicing speaking with others, even if your language skills aren't perfect, helps build fluency and reduces fear.
• 😀 Mistakes are part of the learning process and don't impede progress if the focus is on communication rather than perfection.
• 😀 The 'silent period' should be embraced, and learners should not feel pressured to speak until they feel ready.
• 😀 Consistency and immersion in the language environment, through activities like watching shows or interacting with others, are key to improving language skills.

Q & A

Why does the speaker believe language learning can be transformative?

The speaker believes language learning, especially English, can be transformative because it opens up opportunities for communication and personal growth. The experience of learning English allowed the speaker to pursue an international degree and run an English-based educational YouTube channel.

What was the speaker's initial attitude towards learning English?

The speaker initially hated learning English. Despite being surrounded by an English-speaking environment after moving to the U.S., the speaker struggled with the language and was frustrated by their inability to communicate effectively.

How did the speaker's experiences in high school affect their language learning?

In high school, the speaker felt terrified of English classes due to the random speaking tests that exposed their lack of fluency. Although they excelled in reading and writing, they lacked speaking practice, which hindered their ability to communicate effectively in English.

What is the difference between input and output in language learning?

Input refers to exposure to the language through activities like reading or listening, while output refers to using the language through speaking or writing. The speaker notes that output is more challenging and requires deeper mental effort than input.

What is the 'silent period' in language learning?

The 'silent period' refers to a phase where learners, especially beginners, do not speak the new language but focus on listening and absorbing input. This period is normal, and learners gradually begin to speak once they feel more comfortable.

How did the speaker overcome their fear of speaking English?

The speaker overcame their fear of speaking by observing a friend named Aaron, who was more confident despite not speaking perfect English. This inspired the speaker to stop worrying about making mistakes and focus on getting their message across.

How does the speaker's experience challenge the traditional approach to language learning?

The speaker challenges the traditional focus on grammar and vocabulary by emphasizing the importance of message-focused communication. The speaker believes that fluency is built through practice and interaction, much like how children learn their first language.

What is the significance of using real-life materials like children's books and TV shows in language learning?

The speaker suggests using materials designed for native speakers, like children's books and TV shows, because they encourage learners to think directly in the target language. These resources help learners connect words with images or concepts, rather than relying on translations.

What role did watching American TV shows play in the speaker's language learning process?

Watching American TV shows played a crucial role in the speaker's language learning process. The speaker watched numerous seasons of popular shows, which helped improve listening skills, vocabulary, and fluency in a natural, enjoyable way.

How would the speaker study English if they could start over again?

If the speaker could start over, they would focus on watching English-language TV shows with subtitles in their native language, starting with children's books or shows to build a strong foundation. They would also practice speaking regularly, either with native speakers or by talking to a camera to improve fluency.