Tim Johnson's Blog, page 11

April 1, 2013

The Value of Context in Language Learning

teach children second languageNowadays, There are a multitude of ways for bilingual children to learn languages. From flash cards and language classes, to interactive multimedia programs, different opportunities continue to sprout. However, what parents and educators may sometimes forget is the value of context in language learning. Although teaching materials such as flash cards and multimedia programs may be fun and educational, it does not encompass the scope of language enrichment one learns from real human interactio...

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Published on April 01, 2013 07:36

March 25, 2013

Enhancing the Second Language Through Music

Music and singing is something that is definitely enjoyed by most children. When words are injected into melody, rhythm, and rhyme, they often perk up and sing (and even dance) along. Children's songs ,in particular, usually have catchy melodies and poetry-filled lyrics. These songs are often easy to learn, with short and repetitive sentences that allow for easy memorization and retention. What's better is that it enables them to learn words in context, in such a way that helps them learn lan...

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Published on March 25, 2013 03:11

March 24, 2013

Bosley's first press in Espanol!

Thanks to Latinoslared.com, a new article has just been published about Bosley and the benefit of dual language books for children.


Check it out for yourself if you're fluent!


http://latinosenlared.com/2013/03/bosley-ve-el-mundo-un-libro-en-dos-idi...



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Published on March 24, 2013 07:04

March 17, 2013

When Language Switching Matters

Monolinguals may think that bilinguals who code-switch show deficiency or lack of competence in both languages. However, did you know that code-switching from time to time actually helps develop language among bilinguals. More so, it proves to be beneficial in situations where the people conversing understand such languages, making it an effective communication strategy. Below are some situations where language switching helps.


1. For parties to feel comfortable in a conversation


For exa...

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Published on March 17, 2013 06:11

March 13, 2013

Cultivating the Right Attitudes in Learning Language

Let your child work around things they don't know how to say, but teach them the right way to say it


While children are learning language, work arounds are okay and can help them along the way. However,  you should not let them become too comfortable with it that they forget to learn the real way of saying things. By doing so, you help them explore the language with your guidance. 

Don't be a perfectionist 


If you point out each and every mistake in the way your children spea...
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Published on March 13, 2013 07:31

March 11, 2013

Exposure to the Target Language: How Much is Necessary?

Children have the ability to absorb language quickly. However, there should be enough exposure to the language for them to be able to learn effectively. So how do children learn language? Naturally, they learn through daily interactions and emotional bonds with those around them. For example, there's language learning while children play everyday games such as peekaboo and when they are talked to when bathed or fed, while having their clothes changed, at the car seat, etc. Indeed, t...

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Published on March 11, 2013 08:38

March 4, 2013

Tips On Reading Bilingual Books Out Loud

1. Create a Comfortable Environment

A cozy and comfortable environment helps encourage a child to listen. Find a special place, may it be a cozy spot in your living room, patio, classroom, or in the middle of a room with comfortable pillows. You can also include blankets and stuffed toys so that the children can snuggle while listening.  


2. Choose a Book that You Like

Chances are, your children will notice it if you don't like the material that you're reading. Pick books that capture yo...

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Published on March 04, 2013 06:52

March 3, 2013

The Joy of Reading Bilingual Books With Your Children

Even before children learn to read, it's a joy to introduce them to the magic of books. The wide array of stories, pictures, and words, can occupy their minds with fascination and wonder. Magical stories can blossom and inspire them as they go on their way. Furthermore, bilingual books provide an added layer of wonder and encourage learning beyond mere facts and figures. Read on for tips on how to use bilingual books effectively.  


 


Wa ys to Use Bilingual Books:


1. Read the Books Ou...
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Published on March 03, 2013 05:40

February 24, 2013

The Value of Immersion in Learning a New Language

It's true that many schools today are already offering foreign language subjects, and this has opened doors for learning new languages. However, a classroom setting often does not cover other necessary lessons that encompass truly learning a language. In the classroom, you memorize words, write sentences, and take tests. However, there's a possibility to forget it after finishing the subjects. Engaging in an immersion environment however, lets you learn the language in the real life setting,...

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Published on February 24, 2013 22:41

Simple Russian Words for Toddlers

Did you know that Russian is Eurasia's most geographically widespread language, and the most widely spoken among the Slavic languages? However, for a foreigner, Russian may seem like a tough language to learn. But like what they say: 'If there's a will, there's a way'. 


[image error]Children, in particular, have great capacity to learn a new language at an early age. So if you want your child to learn Russian, you don't have to worry. There are a lot of ways to do so especially since children are abl...

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Published on February 24, 2013 03:43