Thousands of ads on the internet promise “unique and effective” ways to master a foreign language. The results, however, are not always as expected. As in all things, it takes time, willingness, and dedication to succeed. For this, in this article we show you 5 myths and truths about language learning.
What are the main myths and truths about learning a language?
There is an infinite number of beliefs about learning a language, which, in the end, turn out to be very uncertain. Therefore, we believe it is necessary to break these myths and present you the truth about learning a language.
Learn quickly and effortlessly
Many people interested in learning a new language resort to innovative learning methods that promise the impossible. Regarding this myth, it must be clear that practicing a foreign language abroad and training in a language academy are the most effective options for learning.
Remember, commitment and the will to learn are essential to succeed.
Myths and truths about learning a language: Attending a language course is not enough
As we have said, attending a language course is an essential step in mastering a new language, but it is not enough.
The key to succeed is to study every day and practice what you have learned, as well as interacting with native speakers to improve your communication skills. It is true that the courses are the starting point, but you must also pay attention to what you learn in the extra-academic time.
Some people think that it is necessary to live abroad for a while to learn a language. Well, it is a misconception about learning foreign languages.
It would be an ideal situation for you to have at least some basic skills before traveling, to be able to communicate with native speakers. In a different situation, the most likely scenario is that you are forced to look abroad for people who speak your language.
Instead, if you have some knowledge of the language, you can improve it in daily interaction with native people. This will allow you to learn colloquial phrases, everyday expressions and enrich your vocabulary.
You just need to learn a certain number of words
Many people mistakenly think that it is only necessary to know a certain number of words to speak a language. And therefore, they think that it will be possible for them to interact spontaneously in the foreign language. These premises are totally false.
Actually, instead of focusing on learning a specific number of words, the essential thing to learn a language is to know a useful vocabulary for everyday life, especially in the workplace.
The number of words a person learns is just an estimate of the language proficiency level. Instead, there is no point in learning a large number of words that you don’t really need that much.
Pronunciation is not important
One of the worst myths about learning foreign languages is thinking that pronunciation is not important. Obviously, it is. Speaking a foreign language requires good pronunciation to ensure that the native speaker can correctly understand what you are saying.
Furthermore, pronouncing the sentences correctly will allow you to create a relaxed atmosphere, which shows the commitment to speak fluently to achieve an efficient communication.
It is normal for you to notice your accent when you speak, but it is completely different from pronunciation. To simplify, we could say that the accent is the adaptation that characterizes your way of expressing yourself, and therefore does not affect the meaning of the words you are pronouncing.
Myths and truths about learning a language: You never forget what you have learned
We emphasize practice, because, of course, repetition allows you to remember. For this, your learning process must be continuous and constant.
So, if you are learning a language, remember to practice what you learn. If you speak and write regularly, it will be easier for you to become more fluent in the language you are studying.
Ultimately, it is important to always remember that there is no effective method without commitment in learning. Furthermore, we do not all learn the same way: some of us respond better to visual stimuli, others to auditory ones, others prefer to learn with a teacher who guides them, still others prefer to learn self-taught.
