TLDR;
This video provides a step-by-step guide to help English language learners transition from translating in their heads to thinking directly in English, enabling faster and more fluent conversations. It emphasises the importance of patience, persistence, and practice, comparing the process to training for a marathon. The video introduces seven strategies, ranging from basic vocabulary building to immersive practice and in-depth discussions, along with tips on recognising progress and overcoming challenges.
- Stop translating and start thinking in English for more fluent conversations.
- Seven strategies are provided, from basic vocabulary to immersive practice.
- Recognise progress by less translation, fewer pauses, and more complex sentences.
How to respond faster in English conversation [0:00]
The video introduces the common frustration of English language learners who translate from their native language before speaking, leading to missed opportunities in conversations. It poses the question of how to skip translation and respond in the moment, thinking directly in English to save time and build automaticity. Automaticity is defined as the ability to speak English without significant effort or stress. The lesson aims to guide viewers through a step-by-step process to achieve this, offering ways to recognise progress along the way.
Shifting from translating in your head [2:34]
Transitioning from translating to thinking in English requires persistence, patience, and practice, similar to training for a marathon. The best achievements come from dedicated effort, and the ability to have easy, fluid conversations in English is worth the investment. The video introduces several action strategies tailored to different English proficiency levels, encouraging viewers to start where they feel most comfortable.
Strategy #1: Start Small [4:02]
The first strategy involves naming objects in your surroundings in English to recall known vocabulary and identify gaps. This can be done anywhere, anytime. As you identify missing vocabulary, make a mental or written note. Expand this practice by including colours, textures, and shapes.
Strategy #2: Build Word Pictures [4:54]
Building word pictures involves creating mental descriptions using associated words, without forming full sentences. For example, when seeing a box of tissues, associated words might include "rectangle," "blue," "cardboard," "empty," "cold," "sick," "sneeze," "blow," "throw away," "restock," and "flu season." This process expands vocabulary and creates mental associations with objects.
Strategy #3: Connect to the First Encounter [6:07]
When learning new vocabulary, create a mental snapshot of the context or situation in which you first encountered the word or phrase. For instance, if you learned the word "savvy" during a work conversation in the break room, associate it with that specific context. This connection aids in recalling the word later and understanding its appropriate usage.
Strategy #4: Complete Your Thoughts [6:55]
Transition from naming objects to forming simple sentences. Begin with basic sentence structures like "I see..." and describe what you observe. For example, "I see a blue rectangular box of tissues that reminds me of when I got sick, I was sneezing a lot, and now it's empty, so I need to restock it." This can be practiced by writing sentences in a vocabulary notebook or saying them aloud and recording yourself to evaluate and make adjustments.
Strategy #5: Dig Deeper & Apply [8:34]
Once comfortable with basic expressions, focus on the specific contexts in which phrases are used. Consider how to use various expressions appropriately. For example, if you learned the expression "to be in over one's head," think about using it in a conversation with a colleague about work challenges. Expand this by considering similar situations to build a library of knowledge on how expressions can be used.
Strategy #6: Immerse Yourself [9:17]
Immerse yourself in the English-speaking world by absorbing and using the language as much as possible. Watch English media, read in English, switch device settings to English, and encourage friends, coworkers, or family to communicate with you in English. If this isn't possible, find an online speaking partner or join an English-speaking community.
Strategy #7: Dive Deep & Discuss [9:55]
Engage deeply with topics that interest you by reviewing articles and listening to podcasts on specific subjects. Then, discuss these topics with someone else. This reinforces vocabulary and sentence structures through repetition and active use in conversations. Practice with trustworthy individuals to reduce anxiety and encourage experimentation with new words.
How do you know you're making progress [12:11]
Progress is evident when you translate less often, pause or hesitate less, and use more complex sentences with greater detail. Learning a new language requires time, effort, and consistent practice, so be patient with yourself.
What to do if you feel stuck [13:03]
When you get stuck, pause, step back, and observe the situation as a learning opportunity. Identify the specific word or concept causing difficulty. In the middle of a conversation, use a synonym or definition to move forward. Afterwards, note the word or concept and revisit previous strategies, such as reading articles or listening to podcasts on the topic.