TED Talk: How to Learn Any Language in 6 Months

Key Question

• How can you speed up learning?
• Speeding up learning means less time in school or possibly not needing school.
• Personal experience: School often got in the way of learning.

Early Obsession with Learning

• At age 11, sent a letter about hypnopaedia (sleep learning) to Soviet researchers.
• Hypnopaedia doesn't work, but it opened doors to new research.

Journey to Learn Chinese

• Moved to China in 1981 aiming to be fluent in two years.
• Fluent in Mandarin Chinese in six months using psychological research methods.
• Observed others struggling with language learning.

Refined Question

• How can a normal adult learn a new language quickly, easily, and effectively?

Importance

• Communication is crucial for solving global issues.

Key Insight

• Modeling successful language learners and situations.
• Conclusion: Any adult can become fluent in a second language within six months.

Myths about Language Learning

1. Talent is Needed: Example of Zoe, who was told she was useless but became fluent in Portuguese in six months applying new principles.
2. Immersion is Key: Many people live in foreign countries for years without learning the language. Example: Westerners in Hong Kong, Chinese in Western countries.

Five Principles of Language Learning

1. Attention, Meaning, Relevance, and Memory: Focus on relevant content.
2. Use Language as a Tool: Employ language right from day one.
3. Understanding First: Comprehend the message to acquire language unconsciously (Comprehensible Input).
4. Physiological Training: Ability to hear and pronounce sounds of a new language.
5. Psychophysiological State: Be happy and relaxed; tolerate ambiguity.

Seven Actions for Language Learning

1. Listen a Lot: Immerse yourself in the language's sounds and rhythms.
2. Get Meaning First: Understand communication through body language and context.
3. Start Mixing: Use combinations of basic words and get creative.
4. Focus on Core Content: Learn high-frequency words first.
5. Language Parent: Find someone who is patient and will communicate with you as an equal.
6. Copy the Face: Observe and mimic native speakers’ facial movements.
7. Direct Connect: Create mental associations directly with the language sounds instead of translating.

Conclusion

• Master these principles and actions to become fluent in a new language within six months.