Language Learning Myths

There are a host of commonly held misconceptions regarding the best way to learn a language. Below are some of the most misleading ones:

1. If you listen to a language often enough, you will acquire it by osmosis.

Effective language learning involves all the different types forms of usage; reading, writing and speaking. Listening will help accent and pronunciation but research has proven that it is insufficient, by itself, as a way of acquiring overall language knowledge and fluency.

2. Languages are merely a collection of words, which can be committed to memory.

While it is important to develop a healthy vocabulary, learning a language isn't just about words. It is also about grammar, syntax and idiom. Language is about the way we use words in combination, and so learning a language is all about phrases, expressions and sentences.

3. Languages, in general, are made up of about 100 of the most commonly used everyday words.

The truth is that many of the most commonly used words are extremely basic: 'a', 'an', 'the', 'it', 'and'. However some of the most important of these, 'article' words ('a' and 'the') for example, do not even appear in languages such as Russian and Finnish.

4. Exclusive tuition by a native speaker is always best

This is certainly true provided that the native speaker is qualified and experienced. All of the trained language professionals at Conversation are in this category.

5. The quickest way to learn a language is to live in the particular country.

Having to function and communicate in a country is often a huge motivator in learning a language and is a highly effective method for those with the time and the freedom to follow this course of action. However, having a language teacher who is a native speaker is the best substitute in terms of realism and a feeling for the culture.

The acquisition of a new language is an exciting and rewarding process, but it does require commitment and application. If you are already a language student, discuss ideas and approaches with your language teacher. If you are a parent, a good, clearly-designed grammatical guide is a good investment to complement your children's studies. If you are about to begin learning a new language, regardless of course or approach, enjoy the experience and have fun!