Academic English
“Language Learning”
| Level | Topic | Speakers | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Very Difficult | Language Learning | Man – Man | 03:08 |
Pre-Listening Exercise
Discuss with a partner three ways to learn a foreign language and then explain which one has helped you personally the most.
Agree or Disagree? Let’s Spark Some Conversation!
Do you agree or disagree with these statements. Talk together and share your opinions.
- Children learn new languages faster than adults.
- You must live in a country to really learn its language.
- Watching movies is one of the best ways to improve your language skills.
- It’s okay to make lots of mistakes when learning a new language.
- Grammar is more important than vocabulary.
- Speaking is the hardest part of learning a language.
- Language learning apps can replace traditional classes.
- Some people are just not good at learning languages.
- Learning a language helps you understand a new culture.
- You need to study every day to make real progress.
Idioms
“ditch class/school” = 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 ask certain questions in that culture.”
Listening Exercise
Listen to the recording and answer the questions. (See transcript)
Vocabulary and Sample Sentences
Here are some words and expressions that appear in the recording:
-
spark (verb): to start or begin suddenly
– His comments sparked a lot of controversy. -
establish (verb): to set up or create
– The parents established a cancer fund in memory of their son who died. -
imply (verb): suggesting or leading someone to believe
– I’m not implying that you shouldn’t take the job. Just think about it a little more before accepting the position. -
disenchanted (adjective): disappointed or disillusioned with a feeling of not having been told the truth
– He became disenchanted with life overseas and soon returned to his country. -
elaborate (verb): explain in more detail
– Could you elaborate on your ideas on starting your company? -
tactile (adjective): the idea of touching
– He is a very tactile learner and always benefits from hands-on activities like building things.
Post-Listening Exercise
Share your opinions with other students on your experiences of learning a language. Ask other 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