Learning a language in 22 hours -via Guardian

Joshua Foer. Photograph: Christopher Lane for the Guardian

This article is fascinating on so many levels: mnemonics, Congolese hunter-gatherers and their radically different perception of the world, benefits of gaming, etc. And of course, for people like me obsessed with language acquisition, the title says it all!

Have you ever tried using memory techniques for language learning? What are some of the tools or experiences you’ve used or had which worked or didn’t?

In any case, enjoy the article!

Via Borderless Learning

Posted by Multilingual Mama

Too good not to share.

Warning: Comma Omission May Lead to Cannibalism

Posted by Multilingual Mama

Translation:

“Shall we eat kids?”

“Shall we eat, kids?”

That the omission of such a tiny smudge of ink could result in such tragic consequences. Perhaps the old lady in Hansel & Gretel simply misread the memo?

Remember folks, proper punctuation prevents pandemonium.

New research says “baby signing classes ‘fail to boost toddlers’ language skills”

Posted by Multilingual Mama

From an interesting article in the Telegraph. Any thoughts?

Personally, I’d never read that baby signing would boost language skills, just aid in earlier communication since babies’ hand coördination develops earlier than physiology for word-formation. For me, it was a great bridge as we didn’t know what language our little P or C would start using for their first words.

I’d love to hear about other people’s experience.