Alisa Zingerman

Mistakes of Upper-Beginner Learners from the Eyes of a Learner/Teacher

New Year, New Language Summit 2023

Intermediate: Getting Past the Plateaus

The second edition tackled why progress stalls after the beginner phase and how to push through it with motivation and the right techniques.

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About this session

Alisa Zingerman shares upper-beginner learner pitfalls from her teacher/learner perspective. She highlights varied learning styles and the importance of personal goals beyond just speaking.

Key takeaways

  • Recognize that speaking isn't always automatic and it's okay to wait until you feel ready, even if others dive in immediately.
  • Understand that not all language learners prioritize speaking; define your personal goals, whether it's reading, writing, or a combination.
  • Your language learning journey is unique and personal, so tailor your methods and materials to your preferences and goals.
  • Identify your specific motivation for learning a language to guide your focus and what aspects you want to master.

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