The readings were very interesting and provided great insight on the parts I never knew about learning a language. Although I knew that right-handed people had their left hemisphere of the brain to be dominant, I did not know that it was for certain activities. I believe that language is influenced by a biological phenomenon to a point after reading about localization. Since our brain has parts that are significantly built and dedicated for certain abilities, I believe that some people are born with better speaking, listening, reading and writing skills than others. For instance, we are able to take the quizzes that allow us to know what ways help us learn the best. However, language is more heavily influenced by our surroundings and the culture we live in as we adapt to what we see and hear. Especially with speaking, we are influenced by specific areas of the brain such as the Wernicke’s area, Broca’s area, and frontal lobe.
When it comes to processing meaning, it is important to structure the words into sentences. Although the reference is important in learning a language it is important to make
“sense” with words. Words can have multiple meanings to them whether it is in different tenses, meanings, or usages. It is important to specify those words through context.
The readings inspired me to focus more on the day to day casual phrases and sentences, apart from the vocabulary shown in dictionaries or formal grammar books. Having real life practices and experiences will increase my ability to make sense with Korean. Activities such as watching Korean shows, casual conversations with my language partner, and reading Korean stories would help advance my language skills.
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