What Is the Longest Word in the World?
It's so long you're going to have a hard time posting it on Twitter.
Let languages get stuck in your head like songs. 🎵
Music has been a part of our lives for thousands of years. From the rhythmic beats that make our feet tap to the soulful melodies that stir our hearts, this universal language has an undeniable power over humanity. It moves us – physically, emotionally and psychologically as it increases blood flow to areas of the brain that generate and control emotions. It can uplift us, calm us, and even help us focus. But can you learn a language through music? Do music and language really go hand in hand?
Probably the most interesting theory on how music helps our brain is the Mozart effect. This theory suggests that the music of Mozart “makes you smarter”. There are probably hundreds of Youtube playlists with Mozart’s music for “brain power”. However, it seems that the results of the original study were highly exaggerated. Nonetheless, as I write these lines, I listen to classical music and I can confirm it helps me concentrate.
As we delve into this fascinating exploration, let’s hit ‘play’ on our favorite tune and find out whether learning a language through music actually works.
Whether you’re tuning into music to concentrate better while learning a new language (with Mondly), or you’re enjoying songs in the language you’re trying to learn, keep it up! It will only accelerate the process.
Movies, books and music are all fun ways to improve your understanding of a new language. However, if you’re just starting, music is your best choice as it doesn’t feel as overwhelming as reading a book, for example. You just go with the flow.
Music and language go together like Beyoncé and Jay-Z for many reasons:
Okay, learning a language through music works, but is it scientifically proven? The answer is yes. Over the years, there have been multiple studies regarding music’s positive impact on language acquisition. Needless to say, all of them had encouraging results for all those wanting to ease the process of learning a new language.
In a compelling study carried out at Nelson Mandela University in South Africa, the strategic use of song and music was found to boost the motivation of English language learners significantly. The study participants, most of whom had only a rudimentary understanding of English, remarkably demonstrated their ability to dissect contemporary music lyrics as if they were poetry, all thanks to the engaging medium of music.
Another study published in the journal Memory & Cognition demonstrates that melodies can help in learning and recalling new phrases in a foreign language. This is because music and language share neural pathways in the brain, particularly in areas responsible for auditory processing and memory. The process of attaching words to a rhythmic pattern or melody helps reinforce memory retention of those words.
Furthermore, a study in the journal Brain Sciences showed that exposure to music at a young age can improve linguistic abilities, emphasizing the connection between music and language development. The rhythm and pitch variations in music mirror the modulation and stress patterns in language, helping learners understand and mimic these patterns.
The list of studies can continue – all showing the same promising results. As you can see, there’s a firm scientific basis for the notion that learning a language through music can be beneficial.
If you’re ready to learn Spanish, Italian, French or any other language using music, you need some tips before you get started. Listening to music in Spanish is one search away, but there are o couple of things you should remember.
Probably the most important aspect of learning a language through music is the songs you choose. Here are the types of songs that are most suitable for learning new words and phrases in a new language:
Once you have chosen your favorite songs in the language you’re trying to learn, the idea is to have fun and listen carefully. We’re all vibin’ to Shakira’s new revenge Spanish song for Pique, but do we understand what she’s saying? If you’re listening to music in Spanish in an effort to learn the language, make sure you’re doing it right. Here are a few tips and tricks you should keep in mind:
Once you’ve discovered a band or artist that you like, try to learn as much as possible about them. Aim to understand their origins and their inspirations, as this can enrich your comprehension of the cultural backdrop of their music.
The bottom line is this: learning a language through music is possible. Especially if you’re only starting to learn the language and can’t live without Spotify. All you have to do is enjoy the process and learn what you can from it. Now let’s recap a few things.
One way to learn a language through music is to listen to songs in the target language and try to follow along with the lyrics. You can also look up the lyrics and translations online to better understand the meaning of the words. Another way is to just listen to concentration music while studying the language.
Studying music lyrics involves analyzing the structure and meaning of the lyrics and using that knowledge to improve your language skills. This can include learning new vocabulary, grammar rules, and pronunciation.
Listening to music helps you learn a language by exposing you to native speakers and commonly used words, improving your listening skills, and providing you with a fun and engaging way to practice your language skills.
This quote is often attributed to Plato.
To learn a language from music, you can try listening to songs in the target language and trying to understand or study the lyrics. You can also use the lyrics to learn new vocabulary and grammar rules.
Drop the grammar book and pick up Mondly! It’s time to have fun learning languages.
Instead of tiring yourself for hours with inch-thick textbooks, slip a 10-minute Mondly lesson into your routine and make learning a breeze. You will learn languages naturally using:
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