Learn a language for the Mind blog

Have you set your language goals for next year?

11/11/2024

Over the last few weeks, I have been talking with a lot of students about their language goals for the coming year and helping them set some milestones in their language journey – it’s a beginning of the year thing!!
Language learning can be frustrating as we all seem to focus on what we DON’T KNOW rather than focus on what we DO KNOW. I always find that it is good to set myself some minor goals so I can celebrate each achievement through the year – then the major goals tend to take care of themselves.

Some goals may be:

Refocus on why you are learning – Can you still see yourself speaking your language fluently? Where are you? What are you doing? Who are you with?
Decide to complete a certain number of lessons in the next few months– look forward in your homework book and see what you will be learning in the next 10 lessons;
See if you can achieve your next certificate level. How many more lessons until you get to the end of your current certificate?
Set time in your week where you can actually do some review and homework – this way you won’t feel so unprepared for your tutorials.
Plan your next trip – this is my favourite!!! I always get excited and motivated when I know when I am heading to Russia next.

These are only a few ideas to help you in your language journey. Have a chat with one of the Student Coordinators and let us help you set and achieve your next language milestone. We always like celebrating them with you.
Enjoy your language journey in 2025 – let’s see where it will take you…
Happy learning
Jo

What is the best way to learn a language?

9/9/2024

Learning a language can be a rewarding endeavor, and there are several effective strategies to enhance your language acquisition. Once you start your course with VLLC, here are some of the best ways to help get the most out of your course:
Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve with the language. Are you looking to improve your conversational skills, technical vocabulary, or writing proficiency? Setting specific goals will help you stay focused.

Immersive Learning: Surround yourself with the language as much as possible. This can include watching movies, listening to music, or reading books in the target language. Immersion helps you pick up nuances and improves comprehension.

Practice Speaking: Engage in conversation with native speakers or fellow learners as often as you can. Language exchange programs or conversation clubs can be beneficial for practicing speaking skills in a supportive environment.

Focus on Vocabulary: Identify key terms and phrases relevant to your life. This targeted approach will make your learning more applicable and useful in both a personal and professional context.

Regular Practice: Consistency is key. Dedicate a specific amount of time each day or week to practice the language, whether through speaking, writing, or listening exercises.

Seek Feedback: Keep chatting to your tutor and listen to any constructive feedback on your language use, helping you to improve more quickly.

Be Patient and Persistent: Language learning is a gradual process. Celebrate small victories and stay motivated, even when progress seems slow.

By combining these strategies, you can create a comprehensive and effective language learning plan tailored to your professional needs.

Can learning a language benefit your health?

5/9/2024

Language learning can have numerous benefits for your health and well-being. Research has shown that learning a new language can improve cognitive function, memory, and problem-solving skills. It can also enhance creativity, critical thinking, and multitasking abilities. Language learning has been linked to a reduced risk of cognitive decline and dementia in older adults. By challenging the brain to acquire and retain new vocabulary, grammar rules, and pronunciation, language learning can help maintain cognitive function and mental agility as we age.

Learning a new language can also boost self-confidence, self-esteem, and social skills. It can open up opportunities for cultural exchange, travel, and networking, leading to increased social connections and a sense of belonging. Moreover, the process of language learning can be a form of mental exercise and stress relief. Engaging in language study can stimulate the brain, improve focus and concentration, and provide a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

Language learning is not only a valuable skill but also a beneficial activity for overall health and well-being. Contact VLLC to start your language learning journey.

How learning a language can soothe your soul!

29/8/2024

Learning a new language can be a profoundly soothing experience for the soul. Immersing oneself in a new linguistic system provides a unique form of mental escape, allowing the mind to focus on something new and engaging. The process of acquiring a new language involves repetition, practice, and gradual mastery, which can create a meditative rhythm. This mental exercise diverts attention from daily stresses and anxieties, offering a calming distraction.

Furthermore, learning a language often involves exploring different cultures and perspectives, fostering a sense of connection and understanding. This broadened worldview can be deeply comforting, as it helps to cultivate empathy and appreciation for the diversity of human experience. The act of communicating in a new language, even at a basic level, can also evoke a sense of achievement and personal growth, which can be uplifting and soothing.

Additionally, the rhythmic and melodic qualities of many languages can have a calming effect. Listening to or speaking a new language can be akin to listening to soothing music, where the flow and cadence bring a sense of peace. Overall, the journey of learning a language not only enriches the mind but also nurtures the soul, providing a tranquil retreat from the everyday chaos.

Does Learning a Language benefit you?

22/8/2024

Learning a language offers a multitude of benefits that extend beyond mere communication. Here’s a closer look at the diverse advantages of acquiring a new language:

1. Cognitive and Mental Benefits. Enhanced Brain Function: Learning a language engages multiple areas of the brain, improving overall cognitive function. Studies have shown that bilingualism can enhance memory, problem-solving skills, and multitasking abilities.
Increased Neuroplasticity: Learning a language increases neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt and reorganize itself. This can help in maintaining cognitive flexibility and may even delay the onset of age-related cognitive decline.
Improved Attention and Focus: Bilingual individuals often excel in tasks that require attention and concentration. The constant switching between languages can enhance your ability to focus and ignore irrelevant information.

2. Academic and Professional Advantages. Better Academic Performance: Language learners often perform better academically. Skills developed while learning a language, such as critical thinking and analytical abilities, translate into improved performance in other subjects.
Career Opportunities: Being bilingual or multilingual is a valuable asset in the job market. It can open doors to international job opportunities, enhance communication with diverse clients or partners, and make you stand out to employers.
Increased Earning Potential: Bilingual employees can sometimes command higher salaries. Companies value employees who can bridge language barriers and expand business opportunities in global markets.

3. Cultural and Social Enrichment. Deeper Cultural Understanding: Learning a language provides insight into the culture and customs of its speakers. It allows you to appreciate literature, music, films, and traditions in their original context.
Enhanced Travel Experiences: Knowing the local language can make travel more enjoyable and immersive. It enables you to navigate new places more effectively, interact with locals more authentically, and understand cultural nuances.
Expanded Social Networks: Language skills can help you build relationships and make friends across the globe. Being able to converse in someone’s native language often leads to deeper connections and mutual respect.

4. Personal Growth and Self-Esteem. Increased Confidence: Mastering a new language is a significant achievement that can boost self-esteem and confidence. Overcoming the challenges of learning a language can also foster resilience and a positive mindset.
Enhanced Creativity: Engaging with a new language can stimulate creative thinking. The process of learning new linguistic structures and vocabulary encourages innovative approaches to problem-solving.
Greater Flexibility and Adaptability: Learning a language requires adapting to new rules and contexts, which can make you more flexible and open to new experiences.

5. Health Benefits. Delayed Onset of Cognitive Decline: Research suggests that bilingualism may delay the onset of cognitive decline and dementia in older adults. The mental exercise of managing multiple languages seems to provide protective benefits.
Stress Reduction: Engaging in language learning can be a fulfilling and enjoyable activity that provides a sense of accomplishment and stress relief.

6. Enhanced Language Skills. Better Understanding of Your Native Language: Learning a new language often leads to a deeper understanding of your native language. You’ll gain insights into grammar, syntax, and vocabulary that can improve your communication skills.
Improved Communication Skills: Language learners often become better communicators overall. Learning how to convey meaning and understand nuances in another language can enhance your ability to express yourself clearly and empathetically in any language.

Conclusion; The benefits of learning a language are profound and multifaceted. From cognitive enhancements and career advantages to cultural enrichment and personal growth, mastering a new language is a powerful tool for expanding your horizons and enriching your life. Whether for professional development, personal interest, or simply the joy of learning, investing time in language acquisition offers rewards that extend far beyond the classroom.

How to learn a language like a child.

22/7/2024

Learning a language like a child involves immersing yourself in the language environment and using natural learning methods. Enrol yourself in a structured course and utilise this step-by-step guide on how to enhance your language learning outcomes.

Immerse yourself in the language: Use reading and listening skills. Surround yourself with the language as much as possible. Listen to music, watch movies or TV shows, and listen to podcasts or radio in the target language. Start with simple books, children's stories, or comics in the language. Focus on understanding the context and meaning rather than every word.

At VLLC from your first tutorial you will be speaking in your new language. This builds confidence and fluid speech. Practice speaking: Don’t be afraid to speak! Mimic native speakers’ pronunciation and intonation. Practice basic phrases and simple sentences.

Build your vocabulary naturally by learning words in context, rather than isolated vocabulary lists. Associate words with situations or images. Use flashcards with images or associations to reinforce vocabulary. This can mimic how children learn by associating words with visuals. Focus on communication first. Don’t worry too much about grammar rules initially. Grammar will gradually become more intuitive as you gain more exposure and practice. When corrected, don’t feel discouraged. Learn from mistakes in a positive way, just as children do.

Regular practice is key. Set aside dedicated time each day for language learning activities, even if it’s just 15-30 minutes. Practice the language in everyday situations – shopping, ordering food, asking for directions – just like children learn by using language in real-life contexts. Be curious and playful with your language. Be curious about the language and culture associated with it. Explore idioms, cultural nuances, and expressions. Approach learning with a playful mindset. Experiment with the language, make mistakes, and enjoy the process of discovery.

Seek feedback from native speakers or language teachers. They can provide guidance on pronunciation, vocabulary usage, and cultural insights. Celebrate small achievements and milestones along your language learning journey. Recognize your progress and stay motivated.

Stay patient and be persistent. Language learning takes time. Embrace the journey and be patient with yourself, just like children are patient as they learn their first language. Keep going, even when faced with challenges or setbacks. Consistent effort will lead to gradual improvement.

By approaching language learning in a child-like manner – through immersion, natural practice, curiosity, and playfulness – you can make the learning process more enjoyable and effective. Remember, the goal is not perfection but communication and connection with others using the language.

Handy ways to keep your language learning alive.

16/7/2024

To keep your language learning alive and continuously improve your skills, there are several handy strategies you can incorporate into your daily routine. One effective method is to set aside dedicated time each day for language practice, whether it's through vocabulary drills, reading articles, or listening to podcasts in the target language.

Additionally, keep up with your conversation by speaking with a native person. Online resources can provide interactive exercises and opportunities to practice speaking, listening, and writing skills. Flashcards and language learning games can also make the learning process more engaging and enjoyable.

Immersing yourself in the language by watching movies, TV shows, or listening to music in the target language can help you familiarize yourself with native speakers' accents and colloquial expressions. Joining language exchange groups or finding a language partner to practice speaking with can also enhance your language skills and provide valuable feedback.

Consistency is key when it comes to language learning, so incorporating small daily habits, such as labeling household items with their foreign language names or keeping a language journal, can help reinforce your learning and keep your language skills sharp. By staying motivated, setting achievable goals, and incorporating these handy ways to practice, you can maintain and improve your language skills over time.

Jo's Tips for Improving Your Memory - Part 1.

3/7/2024

In a previous blog, I gave you some ideas of how to get the most out of your learning experience and gave you the idea of breaking up your learning into 15-minute segments rather than 1-2 hours at a time.
This blog is an exercise so that you can see how your memory works. I think it is really interesting and will only take you 10 minutes so give it a try. (I have taken this exercise from Accelerated Learning for the 21st Century, Colin Rose and Malcolm J Nicholl – it’s a good read if you are interested in more information).

The following is a list of words:
Relax, then focus on the words and read through them slowly – just once. When you have finished, follow the instructions below the words:

ACTION. Now cover up the list and write down as many of the words (it doesn’t matter how many) as you can recall in any order. Compare your written list to the full list and you may find that you will notice the following:

You probably remembered the first words. As I mentioned in my last blog, you tend to remember more of the beginning of any learning session. So you probably recalled Grass and maybe Paper. You probably remembered the last words. You tend to remember more of what you learn at the end of each learning session, so you probably recalled Pen and maybe Stream.

You typically remember what’s unusual. You probably remembered the word, Zulu. Why? Because it stood out from the rest of the list and a vivid mental image almost certainly sprang into your mind of a Zulu warrior. We tend to remember what is odd, bizarre, comical or rude. You generally retain information that is organised. You may have automatically written down some words in groups – objects and subjects that fit into the same category - Animals – Cat, Bird, Sheep.

You remember “real” things more quickly. The list also contained words such as Love, Truth, Wisdom and Meaning. These are the least well remembered because they are not unique or concrete. They are not things; they are ideas. “Real” things are easier to remember than abstract ideas because you can picture them in your mind’s eye.

So my memory tips for you today:

Have a lot of beginnings and ends in your learning sessions– take breaks; We remember pictures many times better than words – so find a way to make a picture of what you are learning. Try to associate vocabulary (particularly) with a funny or unusual mental image. Organise what you are learning into groups or categories. This works because you are actively doing something with the information, not just passively looking at it.

Enjoy stretching your brain in new ways.
Jo

Joanne Ammerlaan is the National Manager of Vocational Language Learning Centre and a Master Practitioner of NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming)

A Healthy Brain Keeps You Younger

11/6/2024

Everyone knows how a little exercise is good for you. Whether you are a focused gym bunny or just someone who takes the stairs over the elevator, exercise is good for you. Exercise keeps you fit, healthy and young but mentally you need to be healthy too and good brain health is a vital part of keeping and feeling younger. But how do you keep your brain young?

Keep up the exercise. If you already know that keeping physically fit is good for you then keep it up. Physical exercise is not just good for the heart and muscles it also keeps the brain healthy. As you exercise your brain produces healthy proteins that trigger the brain cells to work better with improved communication. A physical work out of just 20 minutes a day keeps your brain working and alive to help keep you feeling much younger.

Healthy Diet. A healthy diet keeps you looking fit and trim but a healthy diet also helps your brain. Foods that are high in Omega Fatty Acids such as fish are excellent for brain health. Memory and general brain performance have been shown to improve considerably with higher intakes of Omega-12 fatty acids, in those with ADHD improved focus has been noted and when taking exams, for example, accessing memorised information has been easier. Drinking plenty of water every day and cutting down on sugar and caffeine have all proven to keep a brain young and healthy and in turn, the have lead to a variety of general health benefits.

Control that Stress. Stress is one of the biggest causes of heart disease and death in the world today. The brain also suffers when a person experiences sustained stress levels. Taking time out to switch off from all stress helps keep the brain healthy and is also a good way to remain young inside. Yoga and meditation, or even just a walk outside with no distractions are proven ways to improve brain health simply because they slow things down.

Keep Learning: By far the best way to keep your brain healthy and at the same time keep you alive and feeling young is to keep on learning. The brain is designed to be taxed by learning new things. Learning stimulates the core functions of the brain, brain exercise if you like and can produce new brain cell growth as well as slow down brain cell deterioration. Learning a new language is one of the best ways to stimulate your brain and use the functionality of the brain to its full. Learning keeps you mentally alert and by remaining mentally alert and alive you automatically feel healthier and have a certain Joie de vivre that makes others see you and experience you as younger.

Look after yourself and look after your brain and you will look and feel younger. By feeling younger you will have more energy, sleep better and as studies show… live longer!

Are languages living things?

28/5/2024

Languages are often described as living entities due to their dynamic nature and ability to evolve over time. Like living organisms, languages grow, change, and adapt to their environment through interactions with speakers and external influences. Just as living organisms undergo genetic mutations and natural selection, languages experience linguistic changes and variations as they are passed down through generations and across different regions.

Languages can also "borrow" words and grammatical structures from other languages, much like how living organisms exchange genetic material through hybridization. Additionally, languages can die out or become endangered if they are not actively used or preserved, highlighting their vulnerability and need for protection. The concept of language revitalisation and preservation further emphasizes the idea of languages as living entities that require care and attention to thrive.

In this sense, languages can be seen as living things that exhibit characteristics of growth, adaptation, and vulnerability, making them integral components of human culture and identity.
Photo by JACQUELINE BRANDWAYN on Unsplash