TLDR;
This video explores how actors rapidly learn new languages for roles and applies these techniques to English learning. It highlights the 80/20 principle, focusing on the most impactful 20% of language learning, and details three key practices: creating immersion, mimicking native speakers, and consistent practice. The video also touches on method acting and encourages viewers to use the RealLife English app for practical exercises.
- Actors learn languages quickly by focusing on key elements.
- The 80/20 principle suggests concentrating on the most effective 20% of learning.
- Immersion, mimicry, and practice are crucial for language acquisition.
The language of the Elves [0:00]
The video starts by questioning how actors learn new languages so quickly for their roles. It uses a clip from "Lord of the Rings" where Liv Tyler discusses learning Elvish to illustrate this point. Tyler mentions that she plays an Elven princess and shares a line in Elvish. The hosts discuss the vocabulary around "elf," such as "elven" and "Elvish," and note that Tolkien, the author, was a linguist who created these languages. They highlight that actors commit fully to their roles, even learning made-up languages, and encourage viewers to explore the full lesson for vocabulary practice.
The 80/20 principle [7:33]
The discussion shifts to the 80/20 principle, also known as Pareto's principle, which suggests that 20% of effort yields 80% of results. This principle is applied to language learning, where dialect coaches focus on the most critical aspects to help actors convincingly speak a new language. The hosts explain that mastering a core set of words (around 1,000 to 3,000) can make a learner confident in most situations. They recommend using the RealLife English app, particularly the vocabulary manager, to make language learning more manageable and efficient.
The three key practices from actors [12:26]
The video outlines three key practices that actors use to learn languages quickly: creating immersion, mimicking native speakers, and consistent practice. Immersion involves surrounding oneself with the language, such as watching TV shows in English. Mimicry involves emulating native speakers' pronunciation and speech patterns, with examples given of actors and K-pop stars who learned English by watching "Friends". The importance of finding an "English-speaking parent" – someone whose speech you admire and emulate – is emphasised. Practice, practice, practice involves repetition and deliberate effort to master articulation and natural speech.
How Robert De Niro won an Oscar speaking another language [24:06]
The hosts discuss method acting, where actors deeply immerse themselves in their characters. Robert De Niro's Oscar win for speaking Sicilian, a language he didn't know, is presented as an example of dedication and meticulous preparation. The hosts suggest viewing one's "English-speaking self" as a role to overcome self-consciousness and adapt to the culture. They share a positive message from a RealLife English app user and highlight the app's features, such as the sleek interface and effective flashcard system. The video concludes by inviting viewers to explore exercises used by dialect coaches on the RealLife English app to improve their fluency and sound more natural.