We are not kids anymoreWhen people talk about how to learn a foreign language, they often talk about trying to do it the way children learn their native language. This is perfectly understandable! Every normal human being learns a language as a child. Children learn langauges very well. In fact, they do it perfectly, in many ways. If we could just replicate (copy) that learning when we try to learn other languages, we would be extremely successful. We should look closely at how little children learn, to see ways we can make our own learning stronger.

However, sometimes people go too far with this thinking. Because little kids are so great at learning languages, they say we should learn exactly like little kids. Most commonly, they say that this means, in terms teaching and learning techniques:

When learning a language, it is really helpful to write and talk about things that matter to you personally, for two reasons. First, we remember what matters to us more easily. Second, we often find ourselves talking about ourselves in life (e.g. when we introduce ourselves, or in ordinary conversation), and so it prepares us for one of the most common real-life situations in which we will use the new language.

One of the great advantages of the Poligo system is you can use Editor feedback to create perfectly correct examples of English, tailor-made to subjects that matter to you.

Here are some suggestions for some personal topics you might write about. Even better, work your way through the list and write about them all, and with the help of Poligo's Editors, create a perfect English version of your life story!

You can use Poligo to write about anything you like. But sometimes it can be hard to think of anything to write about. If you are feeling uninspired, consider writing on a theme. It is a good way to practice expressing your opinions about things you are interested in. You can also use the Edit service to check how you well you present your ideas. Also, Poligo Groups (Teachers! Learn about Poligo Groups here) are one place where you can write about the things that interest you. Have you joined any groups yet?

The first time I went to the photo developer in Japan, I had no idea what to say. Five years of Japanese study in New Zealand and never once had I studied 'developing your film'. Sure I had done 'asking for directions' and 'at a restaurant' a million times, but how do you ask a film guy to print your pictures? If only I had written a dialogue and run it past my Japanese teacher!