You can (and should) learn a new language
The Mission News: October 13, 2017
If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart.
‒Nelson Mandela
We’re sure you’ve already been told this a million times, but it’s Friday the 13th! In honor of this very frightening day, we’ve decided to address something that terrifies most every adult — learning a new language.
Speaking the native tongue can be an important component in understanding and respecting a different culture. Learning a new language isn’t a breeze and you will make (a lot of) mistakes along the way, but it’s a valuable life skill that’s well worth the struggle. When the process gets tough, just remember: Every new word learned is a new door opened.
News that matters
➜ Neuroscientists at USC have found that storytelling is an universal experience. No matter the participant’s native language, tests showed that the same parts of the brain activated while a story was told. This is further proof that storytelling can connect societies and help people empathize with one another despite cultural differences.
➜ When speaking in “baby talk”, mothers, no matter their native language, use a very specific timbre, or tone. Researchers from Princeton University developed a machine learning program that, after listening to just one second of sound, could accurately determine if a mother was talking to a baby or an adult.
What we’re using
Their tagline: “Learn a language for free. Forever.” Duolingo is an amazingly effective tool for learning a language quickly and their interface is very user friendly. You can access it on the web or download the app.
Our challenge to you: Take just 10 minutes out of your day to try it out for the next two weeks. It’s free, it’s fun, and the results are noticeable. You’ll be hooked.
What we’re reading
by Steven Pinker
Pinker dives into the science behind language development and learning. Although a bit technical at times, this is a very interesting and humorous read.
What we’re listening to
Music is the universal language of mankind.
-Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
If you haven’t seen the movie yet, we highly encourage you to check it out. While the storyline is great, the soundtrack is what really makes this movie phenomenal. Director Edgar Wright had an impressive vision — to create scenes entirely in sync with the music that Baby (the main character) is listening to. His team certainly accomplished that mission and the end product is worth the watch. You can get it here.
What we’re watching
Connor Grooms likes to tackle crazy monthly challenges. Using unique immersion, accountability, and memorization tools, he was able to learn Spanish in just a month. Although you may not want to attempt a feat as intense, this short documentary gives some great insight into how you can quickly and effectively learn a new language.
Originally published on our M-F Newsletter.
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