To learn vocabulary effectively, what matters is you, your brain, and your ability to use your memory. You don’t have to be a genius; it’s available to everyone. One of the things that often seems the most difficult in learning a language is learning vocabulary. Yet, with the right methods, this is the easiest part. This blog is aimed to help as many people as possible to learn a language, to learn words, especially to learn vocabulary. If you try out even half of the techniques discussed below, it is guaranteed that you will drastically improve your ability to memorize vocabulary (or whatever).
Before discovering the amazing techniques and tips for learning vocabulary effectively, you need to understand why it works because nobody likes to apply without understanding. So we are going to see how our brain and our memory work and how to memorize vocabulary.
How does our memory work?
The neural network
Our brain is made up of a titanic network of neurons. Hundreds of billions of cells! Neurons have the ability to transmit electrical and chemical signals between themselves. Each of these neurons has the ability to connect to tens of thousands of other neurons and can create a multitude of connections. This is much larger in size than the most powerful computer or the number of devices connected to the Internet. Yes, difficult to imagine all this, but it is very present in our head.
So don’t think that you have no more room in your brain to learn vocabulary or that you are too old to learn a language. Tell polyglots of all ages who speak more than 10 languages and learn new ones regularly.
And their connections
An important notion to remember is that neurons keep connecting and disconnecting from thousands of other neurons. This is how our brain works and, therefore, our memory. The numbers and strength of these connections between neurons can vary. It is for this reason that our brain works a lot by the association of ideas. For memory, knowing a word well, it means that there are many strong connections for this word and that the paths to reach it are very short, therefore very fast.
It also explains why when you learn a new word but don’t revise it afterwards, it will quickly be forgotten. Because the neural connections used to store this word will weaken or even disappear quickly. So, knowing all this, how to memorize vocabulary without spending too much time in it?
How to learn vocabulary effectively?
Make vocabulary cards, a classic for learning: Creating read-and-reread vocabulary lists is one of the most popular techniques for learning vocabulary. This involves listing and noting all the words heard or read, ideally classified by topic and to which a translation is associated.
To memorize vocabulary more easily, associate a mental picture with each new word. Everyone will be able to use their imagination, solicit their memories or emotions.
Use memory cards or flashcards: This visual memorization technique using an image consists of creating cards showing on one side an illustration, on the other the word corresponding to it. The objective of this method is based on a system similar to the memory; it is about selecting the cards one by one, visualizing the picture and looking at the corresponding words, then remembering them. Then shuffle the cards, choose one at random, and try to remember the associated word as quickly as possible. By playing regularly, you will be able to create automatisms over the exercise sessions.
Repeat vocabulary loud: Just like an actor revising his text, do not hesitate to practice by pronouncing and translating the words aloud—memorization technique which, in addition to enriching vocabulary, helps to work on the pronunciation. to be successful in your studies and work, you need to learn spelling words for adults.
You can make the exercise more difficult by inventing and then memorizing a short story (even if it is unlikely), incorporating the words you want to memorize and recite it aloud. If you’re worried that those around you are questioning your sanity, make sure you’re on your own before embarking on a passionate tirade!
Watch movies and series in their original version: We can not repeat it enough, regularly watching films and series in their original version is one of the best ways to learn foreign vocabulary. Less boring than lists, this learning method is informal and allows you to work on your oral comprehension while having fun.
So that the spectators do not lose the thread of the story, the repetitions of words and expressions are often numerous in films and especially in series, which greatly helps memorization. Unfamiliar terms can be easily understood thanks to the image (gestures, reaction of the protagonists, facial expressions, etc.).
Note that this passive memorization technique will also allow you to familiarize yourself with the pronunciation of words and the different types of existing accents. Keep reading blog at www.spellquiz.com to know increase vocabulary.
Singing is good for morale and for learning vocabulary: If you like to sing, put the vocabulary words that are problematic to you in music. To a familiar or invented tune, bring the words to life and practice singing the song. To go further in this memorization technique, you can make an audio recording to listen to without moderation, in transport and during your free time. A very good exercise for self-criticism!
Read children’s books: Reading is also an interesting memorization technique. Without going straight into complex books that may exacerbate your frustration at not being bilingual, you can start with children’s books, which contain an easy-to-follow story using simple, often over-repeated words. When you come across unfamiliar words, the context can help you understand their meaning; the brain is very good at “filling in the gaps”.
A given memorization technique will not necessarily have the same effects from one person to another. It should be determined whether one belongs to the category of individuals with visual or auditory memory. In any case, keep in mind that training is the key to learning vocabulary, whatever the language.
