Dance your way to fluent language learning and enhanced wellbeing

A woman with headphones dancing in her living room
Reading time: 5 minutes

Language learning can often feel daunting, with its endless vocabulary lists, grammatical structures and pronunciation rules. However, incorporating dance and movement into your study routine can transform this challenge into an engaging, enjoyable experience while significantly benefiting your overall wellbeing. This unusual approach is not only effective for language learners of all ages but also enriches the learning process with fun and physical activity.

Engaging in movement and dance can substantially impact mental health, as evidenced by various studies and academic research. For instance, a notable study published in the American Journal of Dance Therapy highlighted that dance, particularly in structured environments, can reduce anxiety and improve mood among participants. This connection between dance and mental health improvement can be attributed to the release of endorphins, often referred to as happiness hormones, which occur during physical activity.

How can dance help your language learning?
Play
Privacy and cookies

By watching, you agree ÃÛÌÒapp can share your viewership data for marketing and analytics for one year, revocable by deleting your cookies.

The connection between movement and language learning

The link between physical movement and language learning is deeply rooted in cognitive science. Research suggests that our cognitive processes are intertwined with our bodily systems, meaning that physical activities, such as dance, can enhance memory, comprehension and expression. This concept, known as '', highlights how movement can serve as a powerful tool in internalizing new language concepts and vocabulary.

Here's how dance facilitates language learning:

  • Memorization enhancement: Associating vocabulary or phrases with specific movements can improve recall abilities. For example, performing a specific dance move when practicing a new word can create a mnemonic device, making the term easier to remember.
  • Increased engagement and concentration: Movement breaks up the monotony of traditional study methods, keeping the mind engaged and focused. This is particularly beneficial during longer study sessions, where concentration may start to wane.
  • Stress reduction: Dance is a well-known stress reliever. Lowering stress levels not only improves mental health but also creates a more conducive environment for language acquisition, as anxiety can be a significant barrier to effective learning.
  • Improved pronunciation through rhythm practice: Many languages have a unique rhythm and cadence. Engaging in dance can tune your ear to these rhythmic patterns, aiding in the understanding and reproduction of authentic pronunciation.

Ways to incorporate dance and language

Start simple

You don't need complex choreography to get started. Begin with simple movements that you can associate with the new language. This could be as straightforward as moving your hands up for high-tone languages like Mandarin or swaying to the rhythm of a Spanish guitar as you practice phrases.

Create a themed playlist

Music is a powerful companion to dance. Create a playlist of songs in the language you’re learning and try to move intuitively to the rhythm. This will not only help with learning new words and phrases but will also immerse you in the culture of the language.

Join a class

If possible, join a dance class that focuses on the culture of the language you're learning. Salsa, Bollywood, or even traditional Japanese dance can provide insights into the culture, which is a crucial part of mastering a language.

Practical activity examples

Merging language learning with dance isn't just effective; it's also incredibly fun. Here are some activity ideas to get you started on this harmonious path of acquiring a new language and enhancing your well-being through dance.

Spanish & Flamenco

  • Activity: After learning basic Spanish greetings and expressions, put on a Flamenco music playlist. Attempt to express these greetings and expressions rhythmically with Flamenco hand claps (palmas) or footwork. This can help solidify the language's rhythm and intonation in your memory.

French & Ballet

  • Activity: Ballet terminology is predominantly in French, which presents a unique opportunity to learn the language. Pick a few basic ballet positions or movements, such as "plié" (to bend) or "pirouette" (to spin), and practice saying them out loud while performing the steps. This can deepen your understanding of French pronunciation and terms.

Japanese & Bon Odori

  • Activity: Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese dance performed during the Obon Festival. Begin by learning simple phrases in Japanese related to greetings, farewells and thanks. Then, engage in learning the Bon Odori dance through online tutorials. Associate each dance movement with the phrases you've learned, enhancing both your linguistic and cultural comprehension.

Hindi & Bollywood

  • Activity: Bollywood dances are vibrant and full of expression, making them perfect for language learning. Start by learning key Hindi phrases and vocabulary related to emotions and actions. Watch a Bollywood dance video, focusing on songs with clear, easy lyrics. Try to dance along while singing the lyrics, connecting the words’ meanings with your movements.

Italian & Tarantella

  • Activity: The Tarantella is a fast-paced Italian folk dance. For this activity, choose an energetic Tarantella song and learn simple conversational Italian phrases or food vocabulary. As you practice the dance, say the phrases out loud with each step. Not only will this improve your memory recall, but it will also give you a feel for the Italian linguistic rhythm and culture.

Each of these activities combines the cognitive benefits of language learning with the physical and emotional joys of dance, creating a holistic approach to new language acquisition and overall wellness.

Extra benefits

Apart from language acquisition, integrating dance into your routine can have profound effects on your physical and mental health.

  • Physical fitness: Regular movement improves cardiovascular health, strength and flexibility.
  • Mental health: Dance reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, creating a happier and healthier mindset.
  • Social connections: Sharing dance experiences with others can lead to meaningful social connections, reducing feelings of isolation and promoting a sense of community.

Integrating dance and movement into language learning is beneficial for acquiring new languages and promotes a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. It's a fun and effective strategy that can break the monotony of traditional learning methods, providing a refreshing path to fluency and beyond. Whether practiced alone or in a group, through music, rhythm and culture, dance can enhance your language learning experience significantly.

Read more of our language learning posts to get inspired

More blogs from ÃÛÌÒapp

  • A teacher stood at the front of the class talking to her class

    English for employability: Why teaching general English is not enough

    By Ehsan Gorji
    Reading time: 4 minutes

    Many English language learners are studying English with the aim of getting down to the nitty-gritty of the language they need for their profession. Whether the learner is an engineer, a lawyer, a nanny, a nurse, a police officer, a cook, or a salesperson, simply teaching general English or even English for specific purposes is not enough. We need to improve our learners’ skills for employability.

    The four maxims of conversation

    In his article Logic and Conversation, Paul Grice, a philosopher of language, proposes that every conversation is based on four maxims: quantity, quality, relation and manner. He believes that if these maxims combine successfully, then the best conversation will take place and the right message will be delivered to the right person at the right time.

    The four maxims take on a deeper significance when it comes to the workplace, where things are often more formal and more urgent. Many human resources (HR) managers have spent hours fine-tuning workplace conversations simply because a job candidate or employee has not been adequately educated to the level of English language that a job role demands. This, coupled with the fact that many companies across the globe are adopting English as their official corporate language, has resulted in a new requirement in the world of business: mastery of the English language.

    It would not be satisfactory for an employee to be turned down for a job vacancy, to be disqualified after a while; or fail to fulfil his or her assigned tasks, because their English language profile either does not correlate with what the job fully expects or does not possess even the essential must-have can-dos of the job role.

    How the GSE Job Profiles can help

    The Job Profiles within the can help target those ‘must-have can-dos’ related to various job roles. The ‘Choose Learner’ drop-down menu offers the opportunity to view GSE Learning Objectives for four learner types: in this case, select ‘Professional Learners’. You can then click on the ‘Choose Job Role’ button to narrow down the objectives specific for a particular job role – for example, ‘Office and Administrative Support’ and then ‘Hotel, Motel and Resort Desk Clerks’.

    Then, I can choose the GSE/CEFR range I want to apply to my results. In this example, I would like to know what English language skills a hotel desk clerk is expected to master for B1-B1+/GSE: 43-58.

  • A group of business people sat together at a desk

    Harness the power of English for a global competitive edge

    By Samantha Ball
    Reading time: 7 minutes

    How does increasing English proficiency drive international growth? Read on to find out how future-focused business leaders are gaining a competitive edge globally by investing in English language training.

    The link between English language proficiency and global business growth is indisputable, and this presents leaders with an exciting opportunity to gain a competitive advantage.

  • A girl sat at a desk with a laptop and notepad studying and taking notes

    AI scoring vs human scoring for language tests: What's the difference?

    By
    Reading time: 6 minutes

    When entering the world of language proficiency tests, test takers are often faced with a dilemma: Should they opt for tests scored by humans or those assessed by artificial intelligence (AI)? The choice might seem trivial at first, but understanding the differences between AI scoring and human language test scoring can significantly impact preparation strategy and, ultimately, determine test outcomes.

    The human touch in language proficiency testing and scoring

    Historically, language tests have been scored by human assessors. This method leverages the nuanced understanding that humans have of language, including idiomatic expressions, cultural references, and the subtleties of tone and even writing style, akin to the capabilities of the human brain. Human scorers can appreciate the creative and original use of language, potentially rewarding test takers for flair and originality in their answers. Scorers are particularly effective at evaluating progress or achievement tests, which are designed to assess a student's language knowledge and progress after completing a particular chapter, unit, or at the end of a course, reflecting how well the language tester is performing in their language learning studies.

    One significant difference between human and AI scoring is how they handle context. Human scorers can understand the significance and implications of a particular word or phrase in a given context, while AI algorithms rely on predetermined rules and datasets.

    The adaptability and learning capabilities of human brains contribute significantly to the effectiveness of scoring in language tests, mirroring how these brains adjust and learn from new information.

    Advantages:

    • Nuanced understanding: Human scorers are adept at interpreting the complexities and nuances of language that AI might miss.
    • Contextual flexibility: Humans can consider context beyond the written or spoken word, understanding cultural and situational implications.

    Disadvantages:

    • Subjectivity and inconsistency: Despite rigorous training, human-based scoring can introduce a level of subjectivity and variability, potentially affecting the fairness and reliability of scores.
    • Time and resource intensive: Human-based scoring is labor-intensive and time-consuming, often resulting in longer waiting times for results.
    • Human bias: Assessors, despite being highly trained and experienced, bring their own perspectives, preferences and preconceptions into the grading process. This can lead to variability in scoring, where two equally competent test takers might receive different scores based on the scorer's subjective judgment.

    The rise of AI in language test scoring

    With advancements in technology, AI-based scoring systems have started to play a significant role in language assessment. These systems utilize algorithms and natural language processing (NLP) techniques to evaluate test responses. AI scoring promises objectivity and efficiency, offering a standardized way to assess language and proficiency level.

    Advantages:

    • Consistency: AI scoring systems provide a consistent scoring method, applying the same criteria across all test takers, thereby reducing the potential for bias.
    • Speed: AI can process and score tests much faster than human scorers can, leading to quicker results turnaround.
    • Great for more nervous testers: Not everyone likes having to take a test in front of a person, so AI removes that extra stress.

    Disadvantages:

    • Lack of nuance recognition: AI may not fully understand subtle nuances, creativity, or complex structures in language the way a human scorer can.
    • Dependence on data: The effectiveness of AI scoring is heavily reliant on the data it has been trained on, which can limit its ability to interpret less common responses accurately.

    Making the choice

    When deciding between tests scored by humans or AI, consider the following factors:

    • Your strengths: If you have a creative flair and excel at expressing original thoughts, human-scored tests might appreciate your unique approach more. Conversely, if you excel in structured language use and clear, concise expression, AI-scored tests could work to your advantage.
    • Your goals: Consider why you're taking the test. Some organizations might prefer one scoring method over the other, so it's worth investigating their preferences.
    • Preparation time: If you're on a tight schedule, the quicker turnaround time of AI-scored tests might be beneficial.

    Ultimately, both scoring methods aim to measure and assess language proficiency accurately. The key is understanding how each approach aligns with your personal strengths and goals.

    The bias factor in language testing

    An often-discussed concern in both AI and human language test scoring is the issue of bias. With AI scoring, biases can be ingrained in the algorithms due to the data they are trained on, but if the system is well designed, bias can be removed and provide fairer scoring.

    Conversely speaking, human scorers, despite their best efforts to remain objective, bring their own subconscious biases to the evaluation process. These biases might be related to a test taker's accent, dialect, or even the content of their responses, which could subtly influence the scorer's perceptions and judgments. Efforts are continually made to mitigate these biases in both approaches to ensure a fair and equitable assessment for all test takers.

    Preparing for success in foreign language proficiency tests

    Regardless of the scoring method, thorough preparation remains, of course, crucial. Familiarize yourself with the test format, practice under timed conditions, and seek feedback on your performance, whether from teachers, peers, or through self-assessment tools.

    The distinctions between AI scoring and human in language tests continue to blur, with many exams now incorporating a mix of both to have students leverage their respective strengths. Understanding and interpreting written language is essential in preparing for language proficiency tests, especially for reading tests. By understanding these differences, test takers can better prepare for their exams, setting themselves up for the best possible outcome.

    Will AI replace human-marked tests?

    The question of whether AI will replace markers in language tests is complex and multifaceted. On one hand, the efficiency, consistency and scalability of AI scoring systems present a compelling case for their increased utilization. These systems can process vast numbers of tests in a fraction of the time it takes markers, providing quick feedback that is invaluable in educational settings. On the other hand, the nuanced understanding, contextual knowledge, flexibility, and ability to appreciate the subtleties of language that human markers bring to the table are qualities that AI has yet to fully replicate.

    Both AI and human-based scoring aim to accurately assess language proficiency levels, such as those defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages or the Global Scale of English, where a level like C2 or 85-90 indicates that a student can understand virtually everything, master the foreign language perfectly, and potentially have superior knowledge compared to a native speaker.

    The integration of AI in language testing is less about replacement and more about complementing and enhancing the existing processes. AI can handle the objective, clear-cut aspects of language testing, freeing markers to focus on the more subjective, nuanced responses that require a human touch. This hybrid approach could lead to a more robust, efficient and fair assessment system, leveraging the strengths of both humans and AI.

    Future developments in AI technology and machine learning may narrow the gap between AI and human grading capabilities. However, the ethical considerations, such as ensuring fairness and addressing bias, along with the desire to maintain a human element in education, suggest that a balanced approach will persist. In conclusion, while AI will increasingly play a significant role in language testing, it is unlikely to completely replace markers. Instead, the future lies in finding the optimal synergy between technological advancements and human judgment to enhance the fairness, accuracy and efficiency of language proficiency assessments.

    Tests to let your language skills shine through

    Explore ÃÛÌÒapp's innovative language testing solutions today and discover how we are blending the best of AI technology and our own expertise to offer you reliable, fair and efficient language proficiency assessments. We are committed to offering reliable and credible proficiency tests, ensuring that our certifications are recognized for job applications, university admissions, citizenship applications, and by employers worldwide. Whether you're gearing up for academic, professional, or personal success, our tests are designed to meet your diverse needs and help unlock your full potential.

    Take the next step in your language learning journey with ÃÛÌÒapp and experience the difference that a meticulously crafted test can make.