Translation method to learn
The translation method, about a hundred years ago, was the method of language learning in vogue which died out with the introduction of the direct method for teaching languages. Arrogant language experts sub the translation method as an artifact from the last paradigm shift. But the reality is a modified translation method is very useful in my experience to teach students who think they know everything.
Why the translation method works
Students will always take the easy way, and if they find a way to understand or express something in a simpler way they will not use idioms or more native ways of expression in their target language.
This is where my version of the translation method comes in. I make students translate articles from their native to their target language in the most idiomatic way possible and this exposes weakness not only in vocabulary but structural understanding of the language.
Translation method for beginners
Further the translation method is good for beginners who do not yet have the critical level of vocabulary in their target language for expression. However, they might translate simple text from their target to their native language. The effect is not only increased vocabulary, but most important increase confidence. They feel they could actually be translators at a basic level.
Modern translation method versus classical translation method
Note this translation method I am talking about is not the strict classical method called the grammar translation method in which discussion is done in their native not target language but a modification. Here is a polyglot that use this method to learn a language. I feel the translation method works when combined with other methods. Try the tranlsation method for know it alls as well as beginners and if you are trying to learn a language try it yourself.
3 responses to Translation method can help you learn a language
i dont have acoment but i want to learning english becuase i want be the best
enginer english is my way to learn english its time to find the way from your site
Hello I am working for an official translation office and translate from persian to English I do this every day in same level but like to promote translating and need help to do better please help and guide me.
best regards
azita saleh
The value of oral translation from a native language into English
Have you noticed that interpreters have to possess the most thorough knowledge of a foreign language (especially of conversation, vocabulary and grammar)? Perhaps foreign learners of English can achieve fluency in English also through oral translation from their native language into English. It is possible to exercise self-control (that is to check yourself) this way when practising speaking in English every sentence in ready-made materials with both a foreign language and English versions. I also believe that the value of oral translation from a foreign language into English with self-control (self-check) is underestimated by English teaching specialists for self-study and self-practice of English conversation, vocabulary and grammar.
My views in this regard do not apply to classroom teaching and classroom learning of English when an ESL teacher teaches English to students from various ethnic backgrounds. In that setting oral translation from a foreign language into English is simply impossible.
But I firmly believe that oral translation from a foreign language into English is effective in practising English speaking, vocabulary and grammar on one’s own with ready-made materials for all levels (using self-check) in a more logical, thorough, in-depth way as to content than casual talking to native English speakers. This oral translation activity should cover English grammar, conversation and vocabulary. Practising English on one’s own through oral translation into English with self-check may be a quicker way for developing fluency in speaking English than casual talking (with limited content in English) to native English speakers. Anyway practising English on your own accelerates mastering of English.
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