Theory of New Language Learning Part Two
They say the better you are in language, the
better you appreciate the group of people using that certain language. This is the goal
of everyone, who learns a new language. It is important now to discuss how one
can improve from a "so-so" to very good. This is the second part of my own
personal theory of learning new language.
Moving from the threshold to proficient level
in learning language is easy said than done. This level is characterized with a
high degree of fluency and spontaneity. A person on this level can summarize written
and spoken information in a coherent way. Furthermore, a person is expected to
express oneself using complex words and structured manner of delivery. In IELTS
English test results, C1 is a band score 7.0, while C2, which is equivalent to
a native speaker of the language, is band score 8.0 and above.
However, the question is how can one improve.
Here is a list of factors that could influence the process:
1.
Appreciation
of History and Culture
The
appreciation of the new culture may act as a catalyst in learning the new language.
Immersing oneself in the society is the fastest and most efficient way to do
this. One could also watch documentaries about the new culture and make an
evaluation on how the new culture is different or similar from that one originally
belongs. Should one can not see the distinction of the new culture, it would be
difficult to understand why native speakers of the new language express
themselves in such a way, and not the same as one expects them to be.
2.
Increase
Usage
To be proficient in the new language one must use
the language consistently in conversations and correspondence. Without
practice, the person's theoretical and practical knowledge would not improve.
Doing written productions and formal communication using the new language is as
important as appreciating the new culture. In my case, I improved my English
skills since it was widely used in school. Almost all of my books and school
activities use English language, so I gradually learned how to express myself
more fluently and spontaneously. On the contrary, this is my problem in
learning Norwegian. Perhaps you see that I write this article in English,
rather than in Norwegian. I hope to use more Norwegian in the near future.
3.
Urgency
The first
two mentioned in this list maybe sufficient for one to reach B2 or the upper
intermediate level, but one must be compelled or forced with urgency to learn
the language to push oneself in learning new language up to C1 or C2 ( the
proficient levels). In my experience, I attained this level only after I forced
myself to use English as a medium in teaching any assigned subject. I refrained
myself from using the two Filipino languages ( Filipino and Cebuano), when
talking to students unless it is necessary. In this way, I felt the urgent need
to be spontaneous and fluent in language. Furthermore, for now, I do not see a
good reason for me to improve my Norwegian language skills. It seems I am
contented with it, although it is far from proficient level. The compelling
reason will come perhaps.
4.
Academic
Exposure
Lastly,
the key for one to reach C2 is to be acquainted with academic works in the new
language. This was the most influential factor why I was able to enhance my
English proficiency. After developing a habit of reading, I learned new ways to
express myself and expansion of the vocabulary seems natural. This happened to
me after reading more than 5,000 pages of educational materials in English,
when I was preparing for my licensure examination; and further improved when I
was required to publish a book as part of the requirement for the completion of
my master’s degree. With regards to my Norwegian skills, I am trying to start
with books that interests me, so I can gradually finish it and learn more
Norwegian. I am putting a goal for myself of 1,000 pages in 1 year. This I do
not know if I can do. I will try though.
Click here for Part One
Click here for Part One
After more than 1 year of living in Norway, I
am quite optimistic that in the near future I can meet B2 Norwegian. When that
time comes, I would be writing blog posts in Norwegian. Wish me luck.
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