Lecture Notes: Secret Number Three

Introduction

• AJ introduces the third secret in language learning.
• Emphasizes that this rule is the most important one.

Key Concept: Learn with Your Ears, Not Your Eyes

• Main Idea: Focus on listening rather than reading or writing to improve English speaking skills.
• Core Message: Speech comes from listening.

The Problem with Traditional Learning

• Traditional learning often involves reading textbooks and writing activities.
• This method leads to better reading skills than speaking or understanding.
• Students typically learn with their eyes, which is ineffective for speaking.

Importance of Listening

• Secret Number Three: Listening is key to improving speaking skills.
• More listening leads to better speaking ability.
• Emphasizes the difference between reading and listening.

How Babies Learn Language

• Babies learn to speak by listening for 6 to 12 months.
• They do not study grammar books or read immediately.
• Simple and natural interaction helps them learn basic words and phrases.

Learning Strategies

• Rule for Listening: Listen to material that is 95% understandable without a dictionary.
• This allows for natural guessing of meanings for new words.
• Avoid difficult listening exercises; focus on easy, natural English.

Progressing in Listening and Speaking

• Once comfortable with 100% comprehension of easier material, gradually increase difficulty.
• Speaking will become automatic, similar to speaking in one’s native language.
• Listen consistently for 6 to 12 months to see significant improvement.

Practical Tips for Listening Practice

• Utilize easy audio books and articles.
• Incorporate listening into daily routines (e.g., while commuting, cleaning, before bed).
• Aim for 1 to 2 hours of listening daily.

Conclusion

• Final Note: Listening ability should always be higher than speaking ability.
• Focus solely on listening to improve speaking naturally.
• Address psychological barriers (like nervousness) in future lessons.
• Preview of the next secret in the series.