Tricks to memorize vocabulary when learning a foreign language

When it comes to learning a foreign language, vocabulary is key. If you want to be able to communicate with native speakers, you need to know the words they are using. Unfortunately, memorizing all of those new words can be difficult. That’s where these tricks come in! In this article, we will discuss some methods that will help make remembering vocabulary a breeze.

Mnemonic devices

One of the best ways to learn new vocabulary is by using mnemonic devices. A mnemonic device is a technique that helps you remember something by associating it with something else that is easier to remember.

For example, one popular mnemonic for remembering the order of planets in our solar system is “My very eager mother just served us nine pizzas.”

This phrase helps people remember that Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto are in order from closest to farthest from the sun.

Flashcards

Another great way to learn vocabulary is through flashcards. Flashcards are an old-school study tool that can be really effective when it comes to learning new information. You can buy flashcards or make your own.

You can also find flashcards online or in apps. If you want to make your own, all you need is a stack of index cards and a pen.

Write the word or phrase on one side of the card and the definition on the other side. You can also include an example sentence to help you remember how to use the word.

Then, test yourself by flipping over the cards and trying to recall the meaning of each word. You can also ask someone else to quiz you if you want.

Repetition

Another way to commit vocabulary words to memory is through repetition. This means reviewing words and phrases multiple times until you can recall them easily.

One way to do this is to use flashcards. As mentioned before, you can make your own flashcards or use pre-made ones from an app or website.

Another way to review words is by using a word dictionary. This type of dictionary includes the definition, pronunciation, and example sentences for each word. You can either read through the definitions and examples once a day or write out the definitions and examples yourself to help you remember them better.

Immersion

Immersion is another great way to learn vocabulary. Immersion is when you surround yourself with the language you are trying to learn. You can do this by listening to music, watching movies or TV shows, reading books, and speaking with natives of the language.

When you have some free time, try listening to foreign language music, watching foreign-language movies or TV shows, and reading foreign language books.

You can also try to find a language exchange partner. A language exchange partner is a person who speaks the language you are trying to learn and you teach them your native language. This is a great way to improve your conversation skills while also helping someone else.

Association

One last way to memorize words is through association. This means connecting a word or phrase with something that is easy for you to remember. 

For example, if you are learning Spanish, you might connect the word “casa” (house) with “casualidad” (chance) because they both have similar sounds. Using association can help you to easily remember words and phrases that you would otherwise have trouble remembering.

The path to mastering a new language

Learning a foreign language can be difficult, but it is definitely possible with some hard work and dedication. These are just a few tricks to help you memorize vocabulary when learning a new language. Give them a try and see how well they work for you!

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We here at Northwest Community College are committed to enhancing our students’ lives, which is why we are proud to offer our ESL courses free of charge to our students and to extend that offer to their families.

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To help your lessons fit in with your work and home life we also offer day and weekend classes. If you are interested in taking advantage of this excellent opportunity then call one of our ESL councilors today on (702) 403-1592.