Many language learners learn vocabulary in ‘batches’.
When they first start learning a language, they learn vocabulary relating to animals, clothes, family, and so on.
Then, they move on to other, more advanced thematic areas.
This means that they may have some advanced vocabulary relating to science but they won’t be able to have a conversation in a group of friends about what they’ve been up to that week.
How to fix it:
Choose vocabulary to learn based on how likely you are to need it in a conversation.
What are the most common words in the language you’re learning? Learn them and forget about ‘animal’ vocabulary for now.
Are there any specific situations in which you get ‘stuck’ and can’t think of what to say?
Make a note every time it happens and focus on that area next time you’re doing a vocabulary learning session.
Additionally:
– Study smart: Instead of just memorizing words, try to understand their meanings and how they are used in context. This will help you remember them better.
– Think in your target language: Try to think in the language you are learning as much as possible. This will help you internalize new vocabulary and grammar rules.
– Create a word wall: A word wall is a collection of words that you have learned. You can create a physical word wall in your room or use an app like Quizlet to create a digital word wall.
– Seek out real-life practice: Look for opportunities to use the words you have learned in real-life situations. This could be ordering food in a restaurant, asking for directions, or having a conversation with a native speaker.
