269. What is the BEST Way to Remember English Vocabulary? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
Nov 6, 2023
auto_awesome
This podcast explores the best ways to learn and remember English vocabulary, discussing popular theories and techniques. It introduces an AI-powered writing tool for English learners. The chapter covers various study techniques based on established memorization techniques, such as the Lightner system and reading out loud. It also introduces the Feynman method, a study technique that emphasizes teaching a topic to others. Finally, it explores three techniques for improving memory and learning: the production effect, the Lightner system, and the Feynman method.
Focusing on frequently used words and achieving around 800 of the most common word families can already enable understanding of 75% of daily English.
The Leitner flashcard system, based on regular and consistent studying, is a useful tool for English learners to efficiently learn and retain vocabulary words.
Deep dives
The Challenge of Remembering Vocabulary
One of the main challenges for language learners is remembering vocabulary. Studies have shown that learning 15,000 word families, as some suggest, is extremely difficult, with traditional language learning settings often resulting in learners struggling to learn more than 2,000 or 3,000 words. Focusing on frequently used words and achieving around 800 of the most common word families can already enable understanding of 75% of daily English.
The Production Effect: Reading Out Loud for Better Memory
The production effect refers to the finding that reading or vocalizing content out loud improves memory retention. Research suggests that the act of turning information into different forms of language by reading and speaking out loud enhances memory. Reading out loud in a distinctive way, such as shouting or singing, has been found to enhance the production effect even further. Incorporating the production effect into English study involves reading English texts out loud, summarizing the material in one's own words, and recording explanations and discussions to reinforce memory.
The Leitner System: Efficient Vocabulary Learning
The Leitner System, also known as the Leitner flashcard system, is a popular method for efficiently learning and retaining vocabulary words. It involves creating flashcards with questions or prompts on one side and answers or information on the other. The flashcards are organized into boxes labeled with different time intervals for reviewing. As learners review the flashcards, they progressively move them to boxes with longer intervals, focusing more on challenging words and spending less time on mastered content. The Leitner System is based on regular and consistent studying, making it a useful tool for English learners.
What is the best way to learn and remember English vocabulary? Let’s take a look at three of the most popular, researched, and established theories in today’s episode!