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Lessons from "Becoming Fluent : How Cognitive Science Can Help Adults Learn a Foreign Language": Language Learning Insights

  • fotaquest
  • Mar 24
  • 3 min read

Lessons from "Becoming Fluent : How Cognitive Science Can Help Adults Learn a Foreign Language": Language Learning Insights

By Lars Guo


Wix made this photo
Wix made this photo

Introduction

Hi Folks! Hope you’re doing well! This blog is about Becoming Fluent: How Cognitive Science Can Help Adults Learn a Foreign Language. I’ll share key lessons from the book and whether I recommend it. The citation is at the end. Enjoy!


Background

I’m currently learning Japanese, Spanish, and German, aiming for fluency. I came across this book and thought it would be helpful for my studies. Fluency involves speaking smoothly, accurately, and understanding humor in the target language.


Who Should Read This?

This book is perfect for adult language learners and those who feel they’re "too old" to learn a language.


Key Takeaways


1. Have a Positive Mindset

While kids have an advantage in picking up accents and making mistakes without fear, adults excel in grammar and vocabulary. Stay enthusiastic and immerse yourself daily.


2. Don't Learn Like a Child

Adults learn differently. Use visuals, repetition, and auditory tools like phone calls to reinforce learning. Leverage your strengths as an adult rather than mimicking childlike learning methods.


3. Effective Learning Strategies for Adults

Consistency is key—short daily practice is better than none. Use visualization, emotion, and real-world immersion to strengthen memory. Break down complex tasks, switch between skills when stuck, and use mnemonics. Engage in conversation and learn phrases to prevent reverting to your native language. Recognizing parts that make up words and understanding their context enhances learning.


4. Set Realistic Goals

Define achievable goals to maintain motivation. Sharing them with others increases accountability. Studying with a partner can create healthy competition and boost progress.


5. Don’t Compare Yourself to Others

Everyone learns at their own pace. Avoid discouragement by focusing on your journey rather than comparing yourself to younger learners. Learning from both native and non-native speakers provides different perspectives and benefits.


6. Master Sound and Spelling Together

Learning pronunciation and spelling simultaneously speeds up reading and speaking proficiency. Exposure to the language’s natural rhythm strengthens grammar and vocabulary.


7. Understand the Culture

Cultural context enhances language comprehension. Media like movies, YouTube, and TV shows help connect words to real-life situations. Understanding social norms prevents misunderstandings and improves communication.


8. Keep Learning

Stay engaged with new content to reinforce old material. Language evolves, so adapt to new words and phrases by observing native speakers. Explore metaphors, idioms, and conceptual maps in your target language.


9. Develop Your Language Identity

You won’t fully blend in as a native, and that’s okay! Respect the culture while staying true to yourself. People appreciate your effort to learn their language.


10. Create a Supportive Environment

A distraction-free study space helps focus. Changing study locations occasionally can provide fresh perspectives. Practicing with native speakers improves fluency and cultural understanding.


Is It Worth Reading?

Absolutely! This book provides valuable insights beyond what I’ve shared. The author's explanations offer even deeper understanding. Most importantly, it proves that adults can achieve fluency.


Final Thoughts

Enjoy the journey of language learning! It takes time and effort, but the process is what truly matters. Stay motivated and keep practicing. Thanks for reading!


Citation

Roberts, Richard, and Roger J Kreuz. Becoming Fluent : How Cognitive Science Can Help Adults Learn a Foreign Language. Cambridge, Massachusetts, The Mit Press, 2015.




 
 
 

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