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The learning secrets of ancient scholars: How did they master foreign languages?
With the development of globalization, the importance of language learning has become increasingly prominent. Among ancient scholars, the way of learning foreign languages was not only different from current learning methods, but also showed their unique learning secrets. These secrets evolved many times from antiquity to the Middle Ages, forming the basis of language teaching as we know it today.
In the process of learning foreign languages, scholars rely on the memory of stories and dialogues, which contain basic vocabulary and grammar, allowing them to master the language in a natural context.
In ancient times, scholars often started by reading, memorizing, and reciting short stories that contained basic vocabulary and grammatical structures. This way of teaching is very different from the isolated sentences that modern learners are often exposed to.
They will use bilingual texts to compare the language they are learning with the language they already know and form a corresponding vocabulary list. In these texts, students use the language they already know to help them understand the meaning of the new language. This way of learning not only promotes language mastery, but also helps ancient scholars use multiple languages in communication.
Ancient language learning environment
The language learning environment of ancient scholars was usually conducted in the classroom, with clear learning goals and methods. John Amos Comenius was one of the 17th-century educators who proposed a complete Latin learning curriculum and emphasized that language learning must combine the senses and experience. Comenius advocated that oral expression should be widely used in the teaching process so that students can truly perceive the content they are learning.
Orbis sensualium pictus (Orbis sensualium pictus) published by Comenius is the world's first illustrated children's book, marking another innovation in language teaching.
Transition from grammar translation method to direct method
In the 18th century, the study of modern languages began to enter the curriculum of European schools, and the traditional grammar translation method became mainstream. Students gradually learn a large number of grammatical rules and improve their language skills by translating abstract sentences. However, this learning method lacks oral practice and often limits students' listening and speaking abilities.
With the advent of the 19th and 20th centuries, innovation in foreign language teaching began to accelerate, and many different teaching methods emerged, such as oral grammar, direct method, etc. These methods emphasize natural use of language rather than just rote memorization of grammar.
Language education in the 21st century
In the 21st century, language education has gradually evolved into a compulsory subject around the world. Foreign languages have become one of the core subjects in the education systems of many countries. The rise of online courses and self-study platforms has also provided more diverse ways for language learning to meet the needs of different learners.
Through the Internet, students can quickly access foreign language media from various countries, which not only expands their learning horizons, but also promotes the improvement of language skills.
In addition, research on language learning strategies has also received increasing attention. Listening, speaking, reading and writing have become the four major language skills, and the cultivation of each skill enables diversified learning methods. Attentive listening, intensive text reading, and practical speaking practice become key aspects of language learning.
Finally, in the face of an ever-changing world, can the learning secrets of ancient scholars still be effectively applied to language learning today?
