My experience with learning languages has been a really positive one. Once I moved to Israel in the fourth grade, I was charged not only with learning how to read and write in Hebrew, but also with catching up with the level of Arabic that my class had been learning since the first grade. I spent four years in elementary school in Israel, and am proud to say that I was able not only to catch up in Arabic, but was at an advanced level for my class. Unfortunately, since I have not used my Arabic since then, save for a few vocabulary words, I do not remember much. Thus, I've learned that while I am apt to learning languages, I very much need that consistent repetition, communication, and application. Once I moved to the states, I had a similar experience with learning Spanish. My grade had previous experience with the language, and for the next six years, it would become my favorite class. I have spent two summers in Spain and Costa Rica doing language learning programs, which has been greatly insightful on both the cultural aspects and the successes of immersion among native speakers.
In both of these languages, as well as my approach towards Hebrew and English classes, I have found that I am not a grammatically inclined learner. Basic rules of masculine and feminine conjugations stick with me, because in many cases I am able to hear what sounds correct. Thus, the structure of my language learning has largely relied on memorizing vocabulary and then practicing it in conversation. I have found that one on one work with a native speaker has been most rewarding. In reference to learning styles, I have found that I am primarily a visual learner. Learning the vocabulary has been easiest for me when I go through flashcards and pronounce the words out loud. I have also really enjoyed fill in the blank and multiple choice questions (I know, this is crazy!) However, seeing the options and the context of the vocabulary within sentences has been helpful with being able to remember the vocabulary and then being able to use it in conversational settings.
In examination of the FIRE model, I believe that I fit into the Evaluative and Factual categories, although I see my study habits in each of these columns. I am looking forward to creating the learning plan and being able to check off my goals and gauge my progress throughout the semester. I think that in this learning experience, I will be able to expand my learning activities because I am comprehension of a language that I already speak. I look forward to doing writing exercises about what I have read in order to reinforce vocabulary and my proficiency in writing. I also look forward to the independent study, because I am able to organize and focus on what is truly interesting to me and thus, hopefully retain the vocabulary and apply it in speaking with family, friends, and possibly in a future career.
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