Reevaluating Language Learning: Focusing on Reading, Speaking, and Vocabulary

Many language learners, including myself, often find themselves caught in the trap of a traditional grammar-based approach. Recently, I was discussing my language learning journey with a teacher who focused on teaching me basic English grammar and writing first. This approach is quite common but, as we will discuss, it may not be the most effective or engaging method for rapid language acquisition.

While it is true that grammar forms the foundation of a language, the current view of solely focusing on grammar is outdated. This approach has been in place for a long time and is often what teachers feel comfortable with because it reflects the way they were taught. However, in today’s digital age, there are much more effective and engaging ways to learn a language, particularly when the goal is to read and speak with fluency.

Real-World Insights: Learning a Language without Grammar

Imagine being a native speaker who, at 16, left secondary school and only knew the most basic aspects of English grammar. Your knowledge included nouns, verbs, and adjectives but nothing beyond that. Yet, you were still fluent in the language and effectively communicated with people. This is precisely my scenario, and it is possible because the true strength of language lies not in memorizing grammatical structures but in vocabulary and the ability to use chunks of language appropriately.

What is a chunk, you may ask? It is a piece of language that conveys a particular idea, often composed of multiple words. For example, when reading, you might come across phrases like “studies have shown” or “it is commonly stated that.” Understanding these chunks is more critical than comprehending individual word meanings. For instance, understanding the relationship between “day” and “night” goes beyond translating these words into your first language.

The Importance of Vocabulary and Chunks in Language Learning

Building your vocabulary and understanding how chunks work are crucial for efficient reading and speaking. When you focus on expanding your vocabulary, you enhance your ability to understand and express yourself better. This is far more useful than trying to master grammatical structures, which can be complex and overwhelming.

Chunks, on the other hand, help in quick comprehension and expression. They are essential for fluent communication because a significant portion of language is formulaic, meaning it follows predictable patterns. Instead of relying on a rigid grammatical structure, native speakers use standard chunks to convey their thoughts.

Practical Examples of Chunks

Let’s consider a common greeting in the UK: "How are you?" The standard response is "Fine, thanks." Although there is minimal variation in this phrase, it is crucial to know and use it correctly. Such chunks can be seen in various conversation contexts, including:

Engaging in small talk: "Oh, really?" and "Actually, yes." Dealing with differing opinions: "I'm afraid we'll have to agree to disagree on that." Transferring to a new topic: "Well, anyway..."

These types of chunks are not only useful for fluency but also for reducing cognitive load during communication.

Choosing the Right Teacher and Approach

If your current teacher insists on a traditional grammar-focused approach, it might be time to look for a new teacher. The key is to find someone who prioritizes a lexical or communicative approach. A lexical approach focuses on expanding vocabulary and understanding how words and chunks work together. A communicative approach, on the other hand, focuses on the ability to communicate effectively in real-life situations. This includes listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

When you find a teacher who uses a communicative or lexical approach, you will likely be exposed to a variety of language structures and styles, making it easier to adapt to different scenarios. It is also important to be cautious and verify that the teacher indeed uses the approach they claim to. Some teachers may claim to be communicative but still base their teachings on grammar.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while grammar is essential, it should not be the sole focus of language learning, especially if the goal is to read and speak confidently. Vocabulary and chunks play a much more significant role in language acquisition and real-life communication. By exploring a more comprehensive and practical approach, you can enhance your language skills more effectively.

Remember, the most important aspect of language learning is the ability to communicate effectively. Embrace a more engaging and practical approach to learn and use language like a native. Good luck on your language learning journey!