TLDR;
This video explains how to speak fluently about almost anything by focusing on vocabulary and learning English like a native speaker (EFL approach) rather than a second language learner (ESL approach). It emphasizes understanding vocabulary deeply through multiple examples and contexts, rather than trying to learn a large number of words superficially.
- Focus on understanding vocabulary deeply through multiple examples and contexts.
- Learn English like a native speaker (EFL approach) rather than a second language learner (ESL approach).
- Fluency comes from knowing vocabulary extremely well, not from speaking practice alone.
Introduction [0:03]
The video addresses a common question from English learners: how to speak fluently about various topics. Many learners struggle to express themselves, especially when the topic is new or unfamiliar. The video aims to explain how native speakers learn and how learners can adopt a similar approach to improve their fluency. Fluency is defined as how well you can communicate, not how much you know.
ESL vs. EFL Learning Approaches [2:59]
The video contrasts two learning approaches: ESL (English as a Second Language) and EFL (English as a First Language). The ESL approach involves learning many new phrases or words quickly, while the EFL approach focuses on learning one thing very deeply. Children often learn through repetition and review, watching the same movie multiple times, whereas many English learners try to learn new things constantly without sufficient review.
Brick Example: Thinking Creatively About Vocabulary [4:31]
To illustrate how to think more like a native speaker, the video uses the example of a brick. Viewers are asked to think of different ways to use a brick, encouraging creative thinking about a simple object. This exercise aims to shift the focus from learning many different objects to exploring the various uses and possibilities of a single item. Examples include building, throwing, using it as a bridge, a supporter, or a paperweight.
Harsh Example: Learning Vocabulary in Context [7:23]
The video shares an anecdote about the author's daughter learning the word "harsh" from the show "Boss Baby." Instead of providing a simple definition, the author explores the context in which the word was used, discussing the scene and the characters' emotions. Additional examples of "harsh" are provided, such as "harsh weather," "harsh storm," and "harsh language," to help her understand the word's meaning through various situations.
Phrasal Verbs: Bring Up [18:39]
The video uses the phrasal verb "bring up" as another example. It begins with a physical, visual example of bringing a marker from the first floor of a house to the second floor. It then extends the meaning to bringing up a topic in conversation and bringing up a child. The EFL approach emphasizes understanding the vocabulary very well through multiple examples, unlike the ESL approach, which might only provide one example.
Idioms: Go Out on a Limb [25:13]
The video explains the expression "go out on a limb" by drawing a tree and showing how standing on a weak branch is risky. It means to do something risky or dangerous. Examples include going out on a limb to help someone or investing in a stock. The expression can also be used ironically, such as saying "I'll go out on a limb and say you like skateboarding" when someone is wearing a skateboarding shirt.
Applying Vocabulary to Different Topics [38:56]
The video emphasizes that learning vocabulary deeply allows you to apply it to various topics. An example is given in Japanese, where the speaker uses the expression "employee discount" in different situations. The key is to understand the vocabulary well enough to use it fluently in different contexts.
Fluency Through Deep Understanding [50:10]
The video reiterates that fluency comes from knowing vocabulary extremely well. This can be a quick process if you understand something right away and start using it in conversations. Confidence comes from understanding the vocabulary, not from magically becoming confident.
Understanding vs. Speaking: The EFL Approach [1:02:21]
The video contrasts the ESL and EFL approaches, illustrating that the ESL approach tries to go directly to understanding TV shows and conversations but often fails. The EFL approach takes a slower, more deliberate path, building up vocabulary and fluency over time. The video recommends focusing on shorter, easier content and spending more time really understanding the vocabulary.
The Importance of Comprehensible Input [1:14:54]
The video references Stephen Krashen's theory of comprehensible input, emphasizing that fluency comes from understanding something really well. The speaking part is a very small part of the language learning process. The video recommends getting lots of input and examples to understand the vocabulary, rather than focusing on speaking practice alone.
Addressing Common Learner Issues [1:33:30]
The video addresses common issues faced by English learners, such as difficulty understanding different accents and the translating habit. It recommends focusing on learning English the same way natives do and getting lots of input. The video also touches on the importance of addressing limiting beliefs and focusing on understanding rather than just memorizing rules and vocabulary.