How To Eliminate *Some* Foreign Language Rote Memorization

As children, we did not sit down with textbooks to learn how to express ourselves. Our little brains were very efficient at linking concepts, words, and phrases. By first grade, we had a respectable command of language, and were ready to acquire formal reading skills. Our education covered rules of grammar, conjugation, and spelling.

As adults, our brains may not be as efficient, but we can still learn foreign languages. The trick is to maximize results (while working less) by utilizing the body's inherent resources.

Here are a few simple facts:

1. Learning in phrases beats memorizing single words.
2. Using multiple senses is superior to simply reading or hearing.
3. Making time to create mental pictures saves time in the end.

Are you looking for proof?

1. Make sure that you have a timer or some method of accurately tracking 60 seconds of activity.
2. Go through each step carefully, and do not read ahead in the article. This is important!
3. Work through the three sections following these instructions. Spend 60 seconds on Section 1, another 60 seconds on Section 2, and as much as time as you need on Section 3. While completing the blanks in Section 3, do not refer back to the previous sections.
4. Read the instructions at the beginning of each section before you begin.
5. If unsure of the instructions, go back to the beginning and re-read them until you are certain. It is crucial that you understand what you have to do before you begin.

Section 1 - Try to memorize the following list of words.

Set your timer for 60 seconds, and begin.

zinzokken - to pick up
breqaanto - kitten
qwoozelen - to stroke
warrtelen - to purr

Section 2 - Try to memorize the following list of words.

Review the words, but spend most of the time repeating the sentence aloud. Create a mental picture of the action while you repeat it. Move your hands and body to act it out.

Set your timer for 60 seconds, and begin.

He uzerieked the trenzzoko, uqorelled it, and it aroobeled.
He picked up the kitten, stroked it, and it purred.

uzerieken - to pick up
trenzzoko - kitten
uqorellen - to stroke
aroobelen - to purr

Section 3 - Quiz

Without peeking at the previous sections, provide the definitions for the following words (no time limit):

aroobelen - ____________________
breqaanto - ____________________
qwoozelen - ____________________
trenzzoko - ____________________
uqorellen - ____________________
uzerieken - ____________________
warrtelen - ____________________
zinzokken - ____________________

(Answers at end of article)

Did you get more words correct from Section 1 or Section 2? Most people who try the test score better on the second section.

The more senses you use, the more likely you are to involve both left and right brain functions. Memory imprinting with this method is more successful when compared to simple rote memorization. Additionally, putting words into context gives them form and meaning that our brains can categorize and recall more efficiently.

If you would like to experiment with more tests, try the links below.

Vocabulary Test 1 ... Vocabulary Test 2 ... Vocabulary Test 3

Notes:

All words used for the definitions were Googled and produced zero matches. I apologize if I somehow invented a word that is offensive to anyone.

Answers:

aroobelen - to purr (Section 2)
breqaanto - kitten (Section 1)
qwoozelen - to stroke (Section 1)
trenzzoko - kitten (Section 2)
uqorellen - to stroke (Section 2)
uzerieken - to pick up (Section 2)
warrtelen - to purr (Section 1)
zinzokken - to pick up (Section 1)