Here is Chanel Cruz. [Applause] I was around 8 years old in my elementary class when we were reading in our social studies book. We must have been reading something about the United States and our ties to our neighboring country, Mexico.As we were reading the passage, so we collectively got to a word in the passage we did not know. Aguila. What is an aguila.I remember trying to decipher this word on the paper, but it seemed to me my teacher did not know either because when I recognized that this word was in ...

Language Learning Challenges & Solutions - Traditional language learning methods (textbooks, memorization) can be ineffective, boring, and may lead to learning incorrect or unnatural language patterns [2][3][9] - Acquiring a language through comprehensible input (language slightly above current proficiency) is more effective than traditional study [11][12] - Immersion through engaging content (movies, TV shows, social media) in the target language is a fun and effective way to acquire it [15][24] Self-Directed Language Acquisition - Start by learning basic words and phrases using platforms like YouTube, focusing on pronunciation [7] - After learning the basics, prioritize listening to native speakers to acquire the language unconsciously [12][13] - Focus on understanding language in context rather than relying solely on translations or dictionaries [14] - Practice using the language to express oneself authentically, through speaking or thinking in the target language [16][17][18] - Learning to read and write should be integrated with listening and exposure to written texts in the target language [20][21] Benefits of Language Learning - Learning foreign languages opens doors to new connections, cultures, and experiences [22][23] - Effective language learning requires motivation and an internet connection, not necessarily teachers or textbooks [22]