Learning a new language involves incorporating new vocabulary into one's repertoire. Experts suggest that to truly learn a word, it must be encountered or used 16-19 times. Team Freestyle offers five tips to facilitate this process.
The first tip is to write down the words. Research indicates that writing helps memory retention significantly, as the slower pace of writing compared to typing allows for better analysis and muscle memory development.
The second recommendation is to make vocabulary visual by associating words with images. This technique creates connections in the brain, making it easier to recall the words later.
Speaking out loud is the third strategy. By vocalizing words and sentences, learners create memorable experiences and develop muscle memory, enhancing retention.
Learning words in context is another effective method. Engaging with media like movies or books in the target language provides real-world examples and aids understanding through contextual clues.
Finally, repetition is emphasized as crucial for long-term memory retention. Regular practice in short intervals can solidify knowledge over time.
Sarah Kempf, who has extensive experience teaching French, shares these insights based on her passion for language learning fostered during her high school years.