Strategies for Efficiently Acquiring Foreign Language Vocabulary
In the world of language learning, Kamron Soldozy, Natural Sciences Correspondent, shares his journey and the strategies he's found effective in mastering foreign language vocabulary.
As a student currently enrolled in two Persian classes and working on a minor in German, Soldozy has embraced a well-rounded approach to learning vocabulary, inspired by Professor Jamie Rankin's course, GER/LIN 316, Second Language Acquisition and Language Pedagogy.
Word Choice is Key
Soldozy emphasizes the importance of selecting practical and high-frequency vocabulary that aligns with his communicative needs. Grouping related words by themes or meanings, such as synonyms or topic areas, helps facilitate pattern recognition and recall.
Spaced Repetition for Long-Term Retention
Utilizing spaced repetition techniques—reviewing vocabulary at increasing intervals—enhances durable memory formation. Soldozy uses the flashcard app Anki for self-testing and scheduling review sessions spaced over days or weeks, significantly improving retention compared to massed practice.
Active Production and Speech Practice
Transitioning from passive recognition to active use is crucial for Soldozy. He incorporates speech practice by going out of his way to use three new words he is learning in each Persian class. Speaking new vocabulary helps deepen recall and moves words from passive understanding to active command.
Meaningful Exposure to Vocabulary Words
Soldozy engages with comprehensible input tailored to his level, including listening and reading content where new words appear in meaningful contexts. This helps associate form with meaning naturally and supports implicit learning processes.
Additional Practical Tips
Creating regular vocabulary tests or quizzes, taking writing or speaking classes, and leveraging technology such as AI-driven apps or blended learning models can further optimize vocabulary study sessions.
A Change in Attitude
Soldozy's attitude towards vocabulary learning changed after taking Professor Rankin's course. He now finds it essential to write down words in class and conversations that he wants or is required to learn.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite the progress, Soldozy struggles with slowing down and not rushing through Anki cards. However, he finds that putting himself in situations where less familiar words do appear helps him overcome this challenge.
A Fulfilling Summer Research Experience
In a separate note, Soldozy also provides information about having a fulfilling summer research experience. More on that in a future article.
In his pursuit of education and self-development, Soldozy applies strategies like selecting practical vocabulary, grouping related words, using spaced repetition with Anki, active production, meaningful exposure, creating regular tests, taking writing or speaking classes, and leveraging technology. Soldozy's approach to vocabulary learning, inspired by Professor Jamie Rankin, has led him to find it essential to write down words he wants or needs to learn, overcoming challenges through immersion in less familiar words.
