Ep255: Memory Secrets for Language Learning - Dr Anthony Metivier

May 24, 2024

Dr. Anthony Metivier, memory expert, shares language learning journey from French struggles to mastering German, Mandarin, Latin, Hebrew, and Sanskrit. Challenges popular language input theories, criticizes gamified apps. Reveals memory techniques for fast-tracked acquisition, importance of extensive reading and setting clear goals.

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Introduction

00:00 • 5min

Exploring Language Learning Journeys

04:50 • 7min

Exploring Language Learning Paradigms and Processing Levels

11:47 • 3min

Effective Memory Techniques for Language Learning

14:39 • 14min

Exploring Different Perspectives on Language Learning

28:37 • 18min

Enhancing Language Learning Through Memory Techniques

46:56 • 19min

Exploring Laddering in Language Learning and Tools' Accuracy

01:05:56 • 2min

In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Anthony Metivier, author and internationally renowned memory expert who’s meditation practice is reciting sacred Sanskrit texts from memory. Anthony shares his own language learning journey, including his childhood struggles learning French, to later success with languages such as German, Mandarin, Latin, Hebrew, and Sanskrit. Anthony describes the 5 levels of processing and reveals how he uses his expertise in the art of memory to fast track language acquisition, including strategies to optimise progress in vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension. Anthony challenges popular theories of comprehensible input, criticises gamified language learning apps, and reveals his number one secret to success in foreign language study. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep255-memory-secrets-for-language-learning-dr-anthony-metivier Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:55 - Anthony’s struggles with English 03:09 - Early life aversion to language learning 04:06 - Learning Hebrew as a revenge language 05:20 - Moving to Germany and unlocking the secrets of language learning 06:45 - Passing level 3 in Mandarin and other studies 08:55 - Impressive Hebrew progress 10:23 - Grammar tables and the importance of extensive reading 11:30 - Criticism of comprehensible input theories 12:30 - 5 levels of processing 14:20 - Key metrics to avoid overwhelm 16:54 - Advice for beginners and intermediates 19:02 - Frequency lists 20:53 - Working with native speakers 22:19 - A powerful reading regime 24:38 - Movie mixing 26:33 - Speaking and yogic exercises 28:28 - Latin grammar approaches 32:03 - Don’t need to learn grammar? 33:44 - Anticipatory reading 35:40 - Latin and Sanskrit vs German and Mandarin 37:38 - Disillusionment after fluency 39:55 - Breaking through to German fluency with extensive reading 43:46 - Problems with the language learning industry 46:40 - The tragedy of gamified apps 49:26 - Fast tracking vocabulary acquisition 56:39 - Linguistic deskilling 58:15 - Pros and cons of tests and exams 01:02:04 - Maintaining multiple languages 01:05:28 - The power of laddering … Previous episodes with Anthony Metivier: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=metivier To find out more about Anthony Metivier, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/c/AnthonyMetivierMMM - https://www.magneticmemorymethod.com/  For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James