What works then? In my opinion the ideal situation for learning a language is to be in the country in question. Sheer presence is not enough. When in Rome, the language learner should do as the Romans do, as well as actively attempt to internalize all aspects of the language (and culture) being learnt.
It is also possible to learn a foreign language at home, far from the country where the language is being spoken.
There are two (and a half) methods that I've found especially useful in my own language-learning. These work best when combined.
Grammar translation method
Wikipedia tells us the following: "...is a foreign language teaching method derived from the classical (sometimes called traditional) method of teaching Greek and Latin. The method requires students to translate whole texts word-for-word and memorize numerous grammatical rules and exceptions as well as enormous vocabulary lists. The goal of this method is to be able to read and translate literary masterpieces and classics"
Yes. This method requires a lot of time and effort, and it also fails to take into account some very relevant aspects of language, such as speaking. The learner does not necessarily learn to use the new language in a flexible way. However, vocabulary, grammar and syntax will be learnt quckly. For this to work properly, the language learner has a teacher who has the knowledge to explain both grammar and vocabulary. The student should also translate from to the target language from an early stage in order to gain good writing skills. Here the teacher revises and explains, but also supports the language learner so that s/he learns to use the language as freely and flexibly as possible.
"Brainwashing"
Surely someone has created a better (and more official) name for this method, but the aim is really to brainwash oneself into learning a language. In short, the goal is to use the target language as much as possible in one's daily life. This includes watching films, listening to music, writing shopping lists, writing letters, reading newspapers, debating with native speakers etc. And when something new pops up, what shall the language learner do? Well - translate it, of course!!
Comparative language learning
This is something I'm trying now with Croatian*. My idea is that it's possible to learn a language quite easily if it bears some resemblence to one or several languages you already know. By comparing Croatian to Russian and Polish (you should see the vocabulary + grammar lists I've created), I'm quite convinced that the new language will make sense in a broader context. It will also be easier to see the differences between the languages and find a way to explain said differences.
*Croatian and I are currently at a very intial stage of flirting. I have done this before with Czech and Serbian, but didn't really manage to complete the project. Will see how this goes.
4 comments:
What a coincidence that you posted this – I've been thinking a lot about different language learning methods recently. I learned Russian through a mix of the first two methods. I used the third method a bit for Serbian, but I have recently abandoned Serbian (for now) because I've been busy with grad school stuff and I experienced some interference with Russian. Serbian has similar vocabulary but often different stresses and I unfortunately got a bit confused!
Yes, Serbian seems to be an eternal project :) Like you say, there are many similarities, and it will be a challenge to stay un-confused and make sure that the third language doesn't interfere with the other two.
At least we both have plenty of time for language learning :)
This is my problem with language learning. I live for what you call "Grammar Translation Method"; I love charts and getting from point A to point B quickly; A=B always. This is also why I cannot speak Spanish. I studied Spanish for 8 years. I read very proficiently and I can eavesdrop on conversations but I struggle to ask someone where the toilet is!
I think a lot of it has to do with the learner's personality as well. I'm far more attracted to working by myself (Grammar Translation Method or Comparative Language Learning) than having to seek out native speakers (brainwashing)of any language, including my own.
Allie, thanks for the comment. I agree with your opinion that personality is important. I usually refuse to speak until I feel "confident enough" = have achieved almost complete fluency :)
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