Learning a new language has never been a walk in the park. Among several new words, exhaustive grammar skills, and pronunciation, most people have a knack for giving up mid-way through. But what if we told you that there is an easy and simple approach to learn a language? Enter word games.
Those quizzes and puzzles we enjoyed as children could be advantageous to learning a new language. In this article, we’ll explore the many ways through which word games can help you in learning a new language.
Science behind it: How word games boost language learning
Word games bring to use different sections of one’s brain. Crossword puzzles, spelling games and other similar games trigger different regions of the brain, which aids in improving concentration and recalling information. Here’s how:
Repetition and retention.
Most word games involve repeating patterns and phrases, which make them easier to remember. For example, unscrambling jumbling words not only refreshes one’s vocabulary but being repeatedly exposed to it improves remembrance.
Contextual Learning Plans
Unlike rote learning, many word puzzles, games and crosswords place words within a specific context and give clues. They relate words to their meanings, which makes understanding easier.
Active Participation
Studying in a traditional way can feel passive. With word games, for example, you have to get involved and participate fully. Being active keeps your brain sharp, alert, and prepared to absorb fresh information.
Undoubtedly the Best Vocabulary Builders
Learning a new language requires you to broaden your vocabulary, which can be achieved through word games that introduce you to new vocabulary without it being overly demanding. Different types of games can help, such as:
Anagrams and Jumbles
These types of games encourage learners to rearrange letters in a way that forms acceptable words, aiding in the recognition of patterns, spellings, and word structures.
Matching Games
These are very helpful for building vocabulary because you have to match a word with its meaning, and they aid understanding of the context behind the words.
Word Searches
Through word searches, one can be introduced to new words while working on their recognition skills.
Grammar and Game Playing: Making Learning Fun
In addition to vocabulary, knowing how to use grammar and construct sentences in the target language is necessary to becoming fluent. Some games have both grammar and sentence challenges:
Mad Libs
This game encourages players to fill in the blanks with nouns, verbs, and adjectives so they learn how sentence structure works.
Sentence Scrambles
Rearranging words into a sentence helps learners understand syntax and acceptable sequence of words in the target language.
Not Only Read Alouds: Listening, Pronunciation and Other Skills
Even though most word games are text-based, some have an audio component that assists with pronunciation as well as listening skills. Games that use audio clues alongside the game help in practicing pronunciation and the sounds of other languages.
Making It Social: Multiplayer Word Games for Language Learning
When it comes to communication, language is extremely important, and learning with other people adds an entire level to the language experience. Multiplayer word games such as Scrabble and Boggle are fantastic for learners or native speakers as they offer fun ways to socialize. The competitive nature of these games embraces even more excitement!
Tailoring Word Games to Your Language Goals
Choosing a game based on your preferred language is important because not all word games are designed in a similar fashion, and some may not meet your personal goals. If you are learning a language like Japanese or Arabic which has different scripts, look for start-up level games aimed at introducing you to graph and sound basics. For Romance or Germanic languages, more traditional puzzles may be enough to get you started.
The Puzzle Jam Advantage: A Language Learner’s Best Friend
If you are considering picking a language and committing yourself to learning it, then Puzzle Jam is ideal for you. They offer personalized word puzzles, language specific challenges, and tailored programs that are specific to a students’ goals. Note taking is made easy with Puzzle Jam, be it solving crosswords in Spanish or matching words in French.
Excited to elevate your language learning?
Join the millions of players around the world who use Puzzle Jam to learn a new language in an enjoyable way. Download the app today and discover how games can change the way you learn languages. Let’s go!
