Language Learning - Scientific Methods for Efficient Foreign Language Acquisition
With learning methods utilizing findings from second language acquisition research, you can efficiently and reliably acquire foreign languages.
Scientific Approach to Language Learning
Learning a foreign language is not mere rote memorization. From research in linguistics, psychology, and cognitive science, how humans acquire foreign languages has been clarified. By utilizing this knowledge, more efficient and reliable learning becomes possible.
Why Traditional Learning Methods Don't Work Well
The reason many people fail in English learning lies in the learning methods themselves. Grammar memorization and rote memorization of word lists alone won't develop practical language ability. The following elements are important for language acquisition:
- Large amounts of input (listening and reading)
- Learning with comprehensible content
- Practice of output (speaking and writing)
- Acquiring pronunciation basics
Recommended Books
We introduce books where you can learn effective language learning methods based on scientific evidence. Each approaches from different aspects, and comprehensive learning effects can be expected by using them in combination.
The Science of Foreign Language Learning
An introductory book that explains the findings of second language acquisition research in an accessible way for general readers. It scientifically examines common myths about foreign language learning and provides the basis for efficient learning methods. For those who want to review their learning methods, this is essential reading for building a theoretical foundation.
- A large amount of comprehensible input is the key to language acquisition
- Grammar study is useful as conscious knowledge, but it alone does not become usable language ability
- Age-related differences in acquisition are not absolute; there are effective learning methods for adults too
- Output promotes language development as an opportunity for hypothesis testing
An introductory book by a leading researcher in Second Language Acquisition (SLA). It scientifically explains why children can easily acquire language and how adults can learn efficiently. You can gain the theoretical foundation for reconsidering your learning methods.
Complete Roadmap for English Mastery
A practical guidebook that systematically shows the overall picture of English learning. It explains the meaning and interrelationships of various training methods including reading aloud, quick-response English composition, grammar, and vocabulary, presenting a path to gradually improve skills from beginner to advanced levels. It provides clear guidance for learners who are unsure what to study and in what order.
- English ability is developed comprehensively by combining multiple training methods
- Reading aloud is the basic training for building English circuits in the brain
- Quick-response English composition converts knowledge into usable skills
- Thoroughly mastering the basics is the shortest route to advanced levels
A learning roadmap that systematically shows what materials and training to do from beginner to TOEIC 900 level. It specifically explains the meaning and practice methods of each training including oral reading, instant English composition, and grammar study.
English Ear: When You Can Pronounce, You Can Listen
A practical book specializing in English pronunciation training. Based on the principle that you cannot hear sounds you cannot pronounce yourself, it systematically teaches consonants, vowels, and rhythm. From reading phonetic symbols to actual practice methods, it provides specific procedures for mastering pronunciation through self-study.
- When you can pronounce accurately, your listening ability improves dramatically
- English pronunciation can be mastered by consciously practicing sounds that don't exist in Japanese
- By understanding phonetic symbols, you can learn accurate pronunciation from dictionaries
- Continuing short daily practice sessions is the secret to improvement
![英語耳[改訂・新CD版] 発音ができるとリスニングができる](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81fEV5aMXsL._SL1500_.jpg)
A practical book focusing on the close relationship between pronunciation and listening. Based on the principle that you cannot hear sounds you cannot accurately pronounce yourself, it systematically trains English pronunciation. With over 900,000 copies sold, it's supported by many learners as a long-seller.
English Vocabulary Etymology Illustrated Guide
A book explaining how to efficiently expand vocabulary by understanding English words through their etymology. By acquiring knowledge of prefixes, suffixes, and roots, you can understand multiple related words from a single etymology. A visual approach with abundant illustrations aids memory retention.
- Knowing etymology allows understanding word meanings without relying on rote memorization
- Multiple words derived from one root can be learned together
- The ability to infer meanings of unknown words from etymology is developed
- Visualization through illustrations promotes memory retention
A book introducing methods to efficiently increase vocabulary by understanding English words from their etymology. By acquiring knowledge of prefixes, suffixes, and roots, you can even guess the meanings of unknown words. It features visual explanations using many illustrations.
Summary
Language learning will improve for anyone who continues with the correct methods. Understanding learning methods backed by scientific research and learning pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar, and practice in a balanced way is the shortcut to success. Use the books introduced to take the first step toward efficient learning.