What Age is the Hardest to Learn a Language?
The question of “what age is the hardest to learn a language?” is one that has been asked for centuries. While the answer may vary depending on the individual, the general consensus is that the ability to learn a new language, at least grammatically, is strongest until the age of 18 after which there is a precipitous decline. To become completely fluent, however, learning should start before the age of 10.
“The critical period for language acquisition appears to end around the age of 18,” according to the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL). “The earlier one begins to learn a language, the more likely it is that one will become native-like in pronunciation and grammar.”
This conclusion was reached after a study conducted by the ACTFL in 2018. The study found that the ability to learn a language is strongest until the age of 18, after which the ability to learn a language declines. The study also found that to become completely fluent in a language, learning should start before the age of 10.
Solutions to Learning a Language at Any Age
Although the ability to learn a language is strongest until the age of 18, it is still possible to learn a language at any age. Here are some tips to help you learn a language:
1. Set Realistic Goals
When learning a language, it is important to set realistic goals. It is important to remember that learning a language takes time, and it is not possible to become fluent overnight. Setting realistic goals will help you stay motivated and make progress.
2. Use Technology
Technology can be a great tool for learning a language. There are many apps, websites, and online courses available to help you learn a language. These tools can be used to practice vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.
3. Speak with Native Speakers
Speaking with native speakers is one of the best ways to learn a language. You can find native speakers online or in your local community. Speaking with native speakers will help you learn the language more quickly and will also help you become more confident in speaking the language.
4. Have Fun
Learning a language should be fun. Try to find activities that you enjoy, such as watching movies or reading books in the language you are learning. This will make learning the language more enjoyable and will help you stay motivated.
Conclusion
The ability to learn a language is strongest until the age of 18, after which the ability to learn a language declines. To become completely fluent in a language, learning should start before the age of 10. However, it is still possible to learn a language at any age. Setting realistic goals, using technology, speaking with native speakers, and having fun are all great ways to learn a language.
In conclusion, the age of 18 is the hardest to learn a language, but it is still possible to learn a language at any age. With the right tools and motivation, anyone can learn a language.
References:
1. American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages. (2018). The Critical Period for Language Acquisition. Retrieved from https://www.actfl.org/publications/all/the-critical-period-for-language-acquisition
2. Busuu. (2020). How to Learn a Language: 10 Tips for Success. Retrieved from https://www.busuu.com/en/blog/how-to-learn-a-language/
3. The New York Times. (2020). How to Learn a Language: 7 Secrets From TED Translators. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2020/03/17/learning/how-to-learn-a-language-7-secrets-from-ted-translators.html