The Importance of Forgetting in Language Learning

What is the original meaning of the word 'linguist' according to Steve Kaufmann?

• A person who speaks many languages

• A person who teaches languages

• A person who studies linguistics

• A person who writes language books

Why does Steve Kaufmann argue that knowing 500 words is not enough for fluency?

• Because 500 words cover 80% of content

• Because native speakers use only high-frequency words

• Because low-frequency words are essential for understanding content

• Because 500 words are too difficult to remember

What does Marcel Proust's 'creative effect of forgetting' suggest?

• Forgetting is only useful in creative writing

• Forgetting helps in retaining information unconsciously

• Forgetting should be avoided at all costs

• Forgetting is detrimental to learning

According to Robert Bjork, what happens when we forget and then retrieve information?

• We expand our reserve of retrievable information

• We lose the information permanently

• We become less confident in our memory

• We need to start learning from scratch

Why is a large passive vocabulary important according to Steve Kaufmann?

• It is necessary for passing language tests

• It is only useful for reading books

• It enables understanding of complex conversations

• It helps in writing essays

What is the concept of interleaving in learning?

• Studying the same material in different environments

• Studying the same material repeatedly in one place

• Learning different subjects simultaneously

• Focusing on one subject until mastery

How does varying study environments help in learning?

• It makes learning more entertaining

• It builds a stronger reserve of information

• It helps in memorizing facts quickly

• It reduces the amount of information retained

What is the main benefit of using the LingQ app as described by Steve Kaufmann?

• It offers instant language translation

• It focuses on grammar exercises

• It allows for varied learning experiences

• It provides a structured learning path

Why does Steve Kaufmann emphasize not worrying about forgetting?

• Because forgetting is irrelevant to language learning

• Because forgetting helps in quick memorization

• Because forgetting is a natural part of learning

• Because forgetting is a sign of failure

What should learners focus on according to Steve Kaufmann?

• Memorizing vocabulary lists

• Practicing grammar rules

• Building a reserve of vocabulary through varied contexts

• Listening to native speakers only