TLDR;
Steve Kaufmann discusses effective language learning activities at different proficiency levels, drawing from recognized frameworks like the Common European Framework of Reference and the Canadian Language Benchmarks. He emphasizes a continuous progression rather than rigid level classifications, advocating for a B2 level as a comfortable fluency benchmark. The discussion covers strategies for beginners, intermediate learners, and advanced learners, highlighting the importance of repetition, high-frequency vocabulary, varied content, and extensive exposure to achieve language mastery.
- Focus on high-frequency vocabulary and repetition, especially at the beginning.
- Vary learning materials to maintain interest and reinforce learning.
- Extensive exposure through books and audiobooks is crucial for advanced learners.
What Are the Most Effective Activities at Different Levels? [0:00]
Steve Kaufmann introduces the topic of effective language learning activities at different proficiency levels. He addresses the common question of what activities are most beneficial at the beginning, when trying to break through a plateau, and at other stages of language acquisition. He emphasizes that learning activities should vary depending on one's current level in the language.
What Are the Standard Language Levels? [0:25]
Kaufmann discusses standard language levels, referencing the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) with its six levels: A1, A2 (beginner), B1, B2 (intermediate), and C1, C2 (advanced). While acknowledging the usefulness of these reference points, he prefers to view language proficiency as a continuum. He explains that learners gradually become more comfortable in a new language, moving away from translating from their native language.
Why I Aim for the B2 Level [1:41]
Kaufmann states that he aims for a B2 level in a language, which he considers a point of comfortable fluency where he can communicate effectively despite making mistakes or not understanding everything. He distinguishes this from the beginner stage, where learners struggle to gain a foothold in the language. He views B2 as a launching point, with B1 as an intermediate level between beginner and B2.
Canada's 12 Language Levels [2:17]
Kaufmann mentions Canada's 12 Language Benchmarks, which attempt to tie specific job requirements to language proficiency levels. He finds this approach somewhat unrealistic, as performance can vary depending on context and exposure. Despite the detailed descriptions of each level, he reiterates the idea of continuous progression from zero to a launched state, with ongoing improvement through continued study.
What I Do as a Complete Beginner [3:00]
When starting a new language, Kaufmann buys two or three different starter books from series like "Teach Yourself," "Living Language," "Colloquial," and "Assimil." These books typically include lessons, vocabulary lists, and grammatical explanations. He works through the lessons and repeatedly listens to the material, eventually developing a sense of the language.
The Power of "Grazing" (Repetition Without Boredom) [3:34]
Kaufmann emphasizes the effectiveness of "grazing," which involves covering the same material from different sources. By using multiple books, learners encounter the same content in varied ways, preventing boredom and reinforcing learning. He notes that the brain benefits from both repetition and novelty, making this approach particularly effective.
Focus on High-Frequency Vocabulary [4:01]
Kaufmann advises focusing on high-frequency vocabulary at the beginning of language learning to ensure sufficient repetition. He highlights the importance of balancing familiar and new content to avoid feeling overwhelmed. He references the Mini Stories at LingQ, which repeat the same verbs and words multiple times in each lesson to provide necessary repetition. Traditional starter books often lack this level of repetition, as they cover a wide range of topics without sufficient reinforcement.
What I Do as an Intermediate Learner [5:35]
For intermediate learners, Kaufmann suggests engaging with content that is slightly challenging but interesting. He combines this with resources like Mini Stories for repetition. He is particularly fond of Sentence Review at LingQ, which helps learners focus on individual sentences, review vocabulary, and become familiar with sentence structure. This exercise involves reassembling scrambled sentences, reinforcing understanding of the language's structure and vocabulary.
What I Do as an Advanced Learner [7:20]
At the advanced level, Kaufmann recommends extensive exposure to the language through audiobooks and reading books. This extensive exposure is essential for transitioning from limited proficiency to comfortable fluency. He emphasizes that consuming a lot of content is necessary to become a smooth speaker, writer, and to understand movies and other forms of media. He views this stage as a reward, building on the enjoyment found in earlier learning activities like Sentence Review.