Learning Languages

I. Pre-Listening Exercises
II. Listening Exercises
III. Post-Listening Exercises

Level:	Topic:	Type:	Speakers:	Length:
difficult	language learning	interview	two men	03:08

I. Pre-Listening Exercises [Top]
Discuss with a partner three ways to learn a foreign language and then explain which one has helped you personally the most.

HELPFUL TIP: Don't be afraid to make mistakes when you are learning a foreign language. It is really hard to practice if your mouth is closed all of the time.

II. Listening Exercises [Top]

Listen to the conversation by pressing the "Play" button of the audio type you want to hear, and answer the questions. Press the "Final Score" button to check your quiz.

Media Player

[ What are these different audio choices? ]

[ Other Audio Options: Play RealMedia | Play Window Media ]

1. From the content of the conversation, where does this interview take place?
A. at a public forum
B. in an auditorium
C. on TV
D. in a classroom

2. According to Dr. Adams, what is one of the most important points in learning a foreign language?
A. exposing oneself to the target culture
B. attending regularly a good language program
C. coming up with a study plan
D. developing good note-taking skills

3. Dr. Adams suggests that:
A. a realistic goal for learners is to reach a certain level of language proficiency, not native fluency.
B. students can achieve native-like pronunciation through focused study.
C. learners should interact with native speakers to gain greater fluency.
D. teachers need to help students foster a good self-esteem and confidence.

4. What kinds of activities would help Dr. Adams in his own study?
A. listening to information and then discussing it with others
B. reading books and magazines for news
C. being involved in group or class projects
D. keeping a journal and exchanging with a friend

5. Which point was NOT mentioned in the interview?
A. Many learners often favor a combination different learning styles.
B. Pronunciation practice is key to improved comprehensibility.
C. Setting reachable goals should be paramount in learning.
D. Learning is a step-by-step process.

Score =
Correct answers:

Listen to the conversation again as you read the Quiz Script and complete the Text Completion Quiz.

III. Post-Listening Exercises [Top]

Share your opinions with other students on your experiences of learning a language. Ask others students and teachers these questions. Report your findings to the class:

the best way to learn different languages skills in a foreign language including listening, speaking, reading, writing, vocabulary, and cultural understanding
your experiences learning English in a foreign country

HELPFUL TIP!

"ditch class" = not to go to school when you should attend

"It is impossible to pass the class if you ditch school all the time."

"learn the hard way" = to learn about something through your mistakes and sometimes negative experiences

"He learned the hard way that you shouldn't do ask those question in that culture."

More of Randall's Favorite Learning Resources