Topic 5: Memorising Foreign Words - Additional Exercises
Build Your Language Vocabulary
Try applying the systems you have just learned to help you memorise some of the basic vocabulary of any language you choose. By applying the Memory Master systems, you will soon build up an impressive vocabulary in your chosen language.
Choose Your Language Adventure
Upcoming Travel
If you are planning a foreign holiday this year, then the choice of language will be obvious. Focus on practical vocabulary you'll need for your trip.
Future Dreams
If not, perhaps there is a country you would like to visit at some time in the future. Start learning now to be prepared!
Obtain a simple phrase book from your local library, and set yourself a task of memorising a minimum number of words or phrases per day.
Essential Word Categories
Remember that the most important words in any foreign language are always the nouns. Focus on these essential categories first:
Critical Importance
Suppose you are visiting a foreign country for the first time, and are suddenly taken ill. You don't need to know how to say 'Please could you tell me where the nearest...', or 'Can you direct me to a ...', but you had better know the word for doctor!
Effective Practice Strategies
Start Small
Begin with 5-10 words per day and gradually increase as you build confidence
Daily Review
Regularly review previously learned words to strengthen your memory
Creative Associations
Make your substitute words as vivid and ridiculous as possible for better recall
Track Progress
Keep a vocabulary journal to monitor your growing language skills
Many people, when faced with a phrase book containing foreign translations of English words, give up after trying to memorise just a few of the words or phrases. They find it such hard work trying to commit the information to memory that they abandon the task all together. You now have the knowledge to make that task a creative one.