When you implement certain strategies to learn a language effectively, you can make more progress than you thought possible. Learning a new language, not to mention becoming fluent in it, is not easy and takes a lot of time and dedication. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 5 key strategies to learn a language effectively.
5 Key Strategies to Learn a Language Effectively
When you implement key strategies, you’re essentially making a plan in order accomplish something. In this case, the strategies will help you learn a language effectively for the reasons you set out for yourself: professional development, an upcoming trip or for school or further education. Whatever it may be, these 5 key strategies will give you an edge in achieving your language-learning goals:
1- Have Fun and Make it Relevant
A great way to learn a language effectively is to make the process as enjoyable as possible. Choose topics that interest you, like science, literature, music or celebrity gossip. Whatever it is, if you are interested in it, you will find greater motivation to keep coming back and practicing.
On a similar note, pay attention to the learning style that works for you. If you are a visual learner then watch TV series or films. If you are more of an auditory learner, check out all the amazing podcasts and audiobooks that are available online. Do you prefer to read? Download an electronic version of a book in the language you are learning.
2- Be a Copy Cat and Model Native Speakers
Sometimes the material found in language textbooks is either outdated or is simply an unnatural way of speaking. Seek out material that is used by native speakers, even at an elementary level. You’ll learn habits that model native speakers over time and that is more effective than having to unlearn an old fashioned way of saying something.
A great way to help you do this is to find a language exchange partner so you can have conversations and have your partner correct you. Also, listening to and reading as much material intended for native speakers as possible will get you accustomed to what a native speaker actually sounds like, and what you could sound like in the future too!
3- Include variety
If you get bored with learning a language, you won’t stick with it. So, a great strategy to learn a language effectively is to mix it up often. Avoid the same routine for too long. If you’ve been watching the same TV series for a whole week, try taking a break in between episodes or seasons and read a few articles. Identify words you don’t know and learn this new vocabulary instead. Or if you are learning a language on your own, make sure you make time to practice speaking with someone or even out loud to yourself.
4- Act Like Child
Do you know why children tend to learn so quickly? Because they aren’t afraid of making mistakes and they have an inherent desire to play. Some of the greatest lessons are learned from our mistakes, and in learning a language, it’s no different. If you let go of your inhibitions and have fun while learning, you’ll be able to learn a language more effectively.
So, go ahead, act like a child!
5- Make it a habit
Now, what is our top strategy to learn a language effectively? Make learning a language a habit. That is, include language-learning activities into your daily schedule. Even if you only have a few minutes, it’s better than skipping a day which could easily turn into three or four. There are a lot of ways to develop and maintain habits, so there is no excuse! The more often you practice, the better you’ll get and feel motivated and compelled to keep it up.
Also, with apps like MosaLingua, you receive reminders to review phrases and vocabulary regularly. You can also set reminders on your calendar or create a bedtime ritual to read a few pages in the language you are learning before going to sleep.
So now you know – by implementing some or all of these 5 strategies to learn a language effectively you can make great progress. But these aren’t the only strategies out there. If you know of another great strategy to learn a language, please share it with us and the community in the comments below!
Thanks for the practical tips! This is certainly a good-read. Let me share with you an app where you can find a language partner for an easier language learning. Try searching Justlearn.