Tips on Memorization
Gwen Compton-Engle
Department of Classics
- Do small amounts, very often.
- Three focused 15-minute study times per day, not one two-hour session.
- Don’t try to memorize fifty words in one sitting; try six or eight words.
- Recognize when you are overloading your brain, and back off.
- Go back and repeat things often to reinforce what you’ve already learned.
- Find ways to make memorization part of your daily routine.
- Tape vocabulary lists to your mirror or on the wall next to your bed.
- Study vocab while waiting in line at the caf.
- Recite words and phrases to yourself while working out or in the shower.
- Make vocab lists appear every time you start your computer.
- Get as many senses as possible actively involved. Don’t just look at the words and think that you’re learning them.
- Say the words aloud.
- Listen to the words.
- Write the words down.
- Visualize the object or action that the word represents.
- Make up a song containing the words.
- Use computer drills.
- Put the words in a context.
- Make them part of a phrase or sentence.
- Group them with other similar words.
- Connect the words with an English derivative or cognate.
- Use any crazy associations your brain creates.
Differences between classical and modern languages
We don’t do conversation: no native speakers
We focus on being able to read ancient literature
Traditional grammar-based method: logical, systematic
Even if you get nothing else out if it, at least you’ll know nouns and verbs
Differences between high school and college
It goes a lot faster
Class time won’t be enough for memorization
Get help FAST if you fall behind: language is cumulative
Student-led review sessions
Profs
ASC tutoring
