Hey reader,
I'm starting a new type of post on Mondecast: method breakdowns. This is where I break down a unique or popular language learning method and show you how to make it your own.
The first method is bi-directional translation (BDT), by polyglot Luca Lampariello. I wrote it because I kept trying to understand it myself, and the best way to check whether you understand something is to try explaining it to someone else. You can read a short version as a part of today’s feature.
In other news, I just discovered a cool Geoguessr-like game that features simulated photospheres from historical events. You have to guess both the date and the location!
💡Mondecast Feature: How Polyglot Luca Lampariello Learns Languages: The bi-directional translation method
BDT is a six-step cycle applied to short bilingual texts. You listen and read until you understand the whole thing; mark up the pitch of the language; then review the same material in different ways to bed it in. Then you translate the text into your own language, in your own words. Then you walk away for a day or two. Then you translate it back from memory.
That last step is the point. Most study methods keep the material in front of you constantly. This one takes it away on purpose; you forget a bit, then reach for it, which is what creates a durable memory.
It's best suited to beginners. The repeat reading builds familiarity; the reverse translation forces passive knowledge into active use.
One caveat: translating into your native tongue (step 4) is the weakest link. You're spending time on a language you don't need to practise.
The full breakdown is on the blog, including how to adapt it to your own learning style.
🛠️Resource spotlight: Linguee
Linguee has basically become my second default dictionary (behind Wiktionary) for many languages. It serves a bunch of languages and provides translations with example sentences.
🌐Language learning
What was the biggest waste of time/regret during your language learning journey?
How to learn 10,000 words fast without flashcards (the answer is input).
💻From around the web
This cool game has AI-generated photospheres of historical events, and you need to guess both where and when it is taking place: WenWare
This user made Spotify playlists for several languages.
Why AIs don’t know what they are saying.
Why Don’t We All Speak the Same Language?
When words look like their meaning, we process them faster.
Till next time!
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