FAQ

"To Understand Norwegian" is a free, dedicated language learning project aimed at helping people master the Norwegian language through the principle of comprehensible input. Our project features a variety of free resources including videos on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, all designed to make learning Norwegian engaging and effective.

"To Understand Norwegian" is a project for everyone who wants to learn the Norwegian language. Our content will be tailored to learners at different levels, but in the beginning, we will primarily focus on people who are completely new to the language and beginners. These videos are carefully crafted to provide understandable and enjoyable input, helping you build a strong foundation in Norwegian. 

"To Understand Norwegian" helps you learn the Norwegian language by using the theory of comprehensible input. The comprehensible input theory suggests that people learn languages best when they understand most of what they hear or read, even if they don't know every single word or grammar rule. The idea is to provide language input that is just a little bit more advanced than the learner's current level, making it understandable yet challenging. This way, learners can naturally pick up new words and structures over time.

Our videos and resources are designed to provide this type of input, allowing you to grasp the overall meaning of the content even if you don't understand every word or grammatical structure. Here's how our approach benefits you:

1. Understandable Content: We create videos that are easy to follow, ensuring that the language used is clear and comprehensible for your current level.

2. Incremental Difficulty: Our content is structured to gradually introduce more complex language, helping you progress naturally from superbeginner to more advanced levels.

3. Meaningful and Relevant Topics: We focus on topics that are interesting and relevant to your needs, making the learning process more engaging and motivating.

4. Relaxed Learning Environment: We aim to create a low-stress, enjoyable learning experience. According to Krashen, a low affective filter—where learners feel relaxed and confident—is crucial for optimal language acquisition.

By following the principles of comprehensible input, "To Understand Norwegian" provides you with the tools and environment you need to effectively and enjoyably learn Norwegian.

Our Website is the central hub where you'll find our latest YouTube videos, news, updates, FAQs, and detailed information about comprehensible input to support your learning journey.

On YouTube, we post a mix of long and short videos designed to teach Norwegian effectively using comprehensible input. 

For quick, engaging lessons, check out our TikTok account. We post shorter videos that are perfect for on-the-go learning, offering bite-sized lessons in Norwegian.

Stay connected through our Instagram page, where we share updates, interesting facts, and essential information about comprehensible input. It's the best way to stay informed and get tips for language learning. We will also post short Reels in comprehensible Norwegian

Join us across these platforms and take advantage of our diverse content to master Norwegian.

Yes, we do! By subscribing to our newsletter, you'll receive important news and updates directly to your email. As a thank you for subscribing, you'll also receive a free ebook titled "8 Tips - Learning Norwegian Made Easy." This ebook is packed with valuable tips and insights to help you learn Norwegian more effectively. We hope you find it both useful and enjoyable. Subscribe here if you want to start receiving our latest updates and your free ebook.

You can support our project through two main platforms: PayPal and Patreon.

1. PayPal: If you prefer a one-time donation, you can contribute via PayPal. Any amount, large or small, is greatly appreciated and helps us continue creating valuable content.

2. Patreon: For those who wish to support us on an ongoing basis, you can join our Patreon community with a monthly subscription. While we currently do not offer specific benefits for our patrons, we hope to provide some great deals and exclusive content in the future.

Your support means a lot to us, and we are grateful for any contribution you make to help us grow and enhance our project.

Comprehensible input is considered the most effective way of learning a language because it allows learners to understand most of what they hear or read, even if they don't know every word. This method mimics the natural way people acquire their first language, helping learners gradually pick up new vocabulary and grammar in an intuitive manner. By engaging with interesting and relevant content that is slightly above their current level, learners stay motivated and progress without feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, learning in a relaxed, low-stress environment enhances absorption and retention of the language. "To Understand Norwegian" leverages this approach to make learning Norwegian both natural and effective.

There are many examples where people of all ages learns languages using comprehensible input

Children Learning Their First Language: Infants and young children learn their native language by hearing it spoken around them. They are exposed to conversations, stories, and everyday interactions that are mostly understandable but gradually introduce more complex language. For example, a child might learn the word "dog" by hearing it frequently in context ("Look at the dog!") and seeing dogs in their environment. Over time, as they understand more, they pick up additional words and grammar.

Travelers Immersed in a New Country: When travelers spend time in a country where a different language is spoken, they learn the language by listening to and engaging with native speakers. For instance, a person living in Spain might learn Spanish by hearing it used in daily activities, such as ordering food at a restaurant, shopping, or asking for directions. The exposure is often at a level where they can understand the general meaning, even if they don't grasp every word.

Watching TV Shows or Movies in a Foreign Language: Many people consider watching TV shows or movies in a new language with subtitles as a "lazy way" of learning. However, this method actually employs the principle of comprehensible input. By engaging with content that is both entertaining and slightly challenging, learners are exposed to language in a context that makes it easier to understand and acquire new vocabulary and structures naturally. Far from being lazy, this approach effectively supports language learning by providing meaningful and contextual language practice.

Yes, the comprehensible input method is suitable for everyone who wants to learn Norwegian, and here's why, based on scientific principles of language acquisition:

The comprehensible input theory is grounded in the understanding of how people naturally acquire language. This approach is effective for learners of all levels due to several key scientific factors:

1. Natural Language Acquisition: Comprehensible input mimics the natural process of language learning. Just as children learn their first language by understanding and gradually mastering more complex language, adults can benefit from a similar process. When learners are exposed to language that is mostly understandable but slightly beyond their current proficiency (i+1), they can naturally acquire new vocabulary and grammar structures.

2. Incremental Learning: Research shows that language learners progress best when they encounter material that is just a bit more advanced than their current level. This gradual increase in difficulty helps learners build confidence and competence without becoming overwhelmed.

3. Meaningful Context: Learning is more effective when the language input is relevant and interesting to the learner. Comprehensible input ensures that the content is engaging and contextually meaningful, which aids in better retention and understanding.

4. Reduced Anxiety: The theory emphasizes a low affective filter, meaning learners should feel relaxed and confident. Scientific studies indicate that anxiety and stress can hinder language learning, so creating a comfortable learning environment enhances absorption and retention of the language.

Because comprehensible input aligns with these scientific principles, it is adaptable and effective for learners at all stages, from beginners to advanced students. "To Understand Norwegian" uses this method to provide valuable and engaging content that supports effective language acquisition for everyone.

In the context of comprehensible input, "input" refers to any form of language exposure that helps learners understand and acquire a new language. This includes:

Listening: Audio materials such as conversations, podcasts, audiobooks, or videos where the language is spoken at a level that is understandable but slightly above the learner's current proficiency.

Reading: Written materials like books, articles, blogs, or captions that contain language the learner can mostly understand, with some new vocabulary or structures that are just beyond their current level.

Visual Media: Videos, movies, and TV shows in the target language that include visual context to support understanding, making the spoken or written language more comprehensible.

Social Interaction: Conversations or written exchanges with native speakers or other learners, where the language used is clear and slightly challenging, helping learners practice and understand in real-time.

For language input to be effective, it needs to be contextual, meaning that learners should be able to see and understand how words and structures are used in real communication. This can be achieved through engaging with stories, conversations, videos, and other forms of content where the language is used naturally. Some activities and materials might appear to be useful language input, but they lack the essential context needed for effective language acquisition. Here are a few examples:

Isolated Vocabulary Lists: Memorizing lists of words without any context doesn't help learners understand how those words are used in real-life situations. Without sentences or stories, it's hard to grasp the meaning and proper usage of the vocabulary.

Grammar Rules and Exercises: Studying grammar rules in isolation or completing grammar exercises without contextual examples can be ineffective.

Out-of-Context Sentences: Learning sentences that are not connected to any meaningful context can be confusing and less memorable. For example, practicing random sentences like "The cat is on the table" without any storyline or conversation around it doesn't provide a clear understanding of how language is naturally used.

Flashcards with Single Words or Phrases: Learning single words or phrases without context can limit understanding. It's more beneficial to see words and phrases within sentences or stories where their meaning and usage are clear.

Mechanical Translation Exercises: Translating sentences back and forth between languages without any real-life context doesn't provide meaningful input. This approach often focuses more on the mechanics of translation rather than true language understanding.

Language Learning Apps: Apps like Duolingo often provide isolated sentences and vocabulary drills without sufficient context. While they can be useful for practicing certain language elements, they typically do not offer the rich, contextual input necessary for natural language acquisition. These apps focus more on translation and repetition rather than immersive, meaningful use of language in context.

"Output" refers to the use of the language by learners, which includes speaking and writing. It is the active production of language as opposed to just receiving or understanding it. Examples of output include participating in conversations, writing essays, practicing pronunciation, and giving presentations.

In the context of the comprehensible input method, learners are encouraged to focus primarily on understanding and absorbing the language before attempting to produce it. This approach aligns with the natural way people learn their first language, where listening and understanding come well before speaking and writing.

When should you start focusing on output?

1. Comfort with Understanding: Start focusing on output when you feel comfortable understanding the language in various contexts. This means you can follow conversations, understand stories, and grasp the meaning of what you hear and read, even if you don't understand every single word.

2. Natural Progression: Output should emerge naturally as a result of abundant input. You might find yourself starting to think in the language or forming simple sentences in your head. This is a sign that you're ready to try producing the language.

3. Low-Stress Opportunities: Begin with low-stress, low-stakes opportunities for output, such as speaking with a language partner or writing simple messages. It's important that your initial attempts at output are in a supportive environment where mistakes are seen as part of the learning process.

4. Incremental Steps: Gradually increase the complexity of your output activities as you become more confident. Start with short conversations or brief written texts and move towards longer and more complex forms of communication.

The key is not to rush into producing the language but to let it come naturally as your comprehension skills grow. "To Understand Norwegian" focuses on providing the comprehensible input necessary to build a solid foundation, making it easier and more natural for learners to start producing the language when they are ready.

Yes, the concept of comprehensible input is science-based and supported by extensive research in the field of language acquisition. Developed by linguist Stephen Krashen, the theory suggests that learners acquire language most effectively when exposed to language input that is just slightly beyond their current proficiency level, often referred to as "i+1." Krashen's hypotheses, such as the Input Hypothesis and the Affective Filter Hypothesis, are grounded in research showing that language acquisition occurs when learners understand the essence of communication, even if they don't grasp every word or grammatical structure. The Affective Filter Hypothesis also emphasizes that emotional factors like anxiety, motivation, and confidence can influence language acquisition, with a low-stress, enjoyable learning environment enhancing the ability to absorb and retain new language.

Numerous empirical studies have validated the principles of comprehensible input. Research indicates that learners exposed to comprehensible input tend to perform better in both comprehension and production compared to those who rely on rote memorization or isolated grammar exercises. Additionally, the Natural Order Hypothesis, which states that learners acquire grammatical structures in a predictable sequence, has been supported by studies showing consistent learning patterns. These principles have been successfully applied in educational settings, where language programs emphasizing meaningful, understandable input over traditional methods have produced more fluent and confident speakers.

No. People can, of course, learn Norwegian without watching our videos. There are many ways to immerse yourself in the language, such as watching Norwegian movies and TV shows, listening to podcasts, reading books, and engaging in conversations with native speakers. These activities can all provide valuable exposure to the language.

However, I haven't found a lot of Norwegian content that is specifically made with comprehensible input in mind, or that is easy to understand for beginners of the language, other than cartoons for children. That's where our videos come in. We strive to create content that is not only understandable but also engaging, interesting and tailored to help learners naturally acquire Norwegian. We try to focus on clear explanations and relevant topics, and we hope to fill this gap and support your language learning journey in an effective and enjoyable way. Our goal is to create videos that people enjoy watching while simultaneously learning the Norwegian language.

In addition to our videos, there are several other resources you can explore to enhance your Norwegian language learning. 

Almost everything on Netflix Kids is dubbed in Norwegian. I recommend Peppa Pig and Adventure Time for beginners. I recommend the movies from Studio Ghibli, "Askeladden"- movies and the series "Hjem til Jul" for intermediates.

There are also a lot of fun series and movies to watch in Norwegian on Disney+, if you are a fan of Disney cartoons

Additionally, there are many Norwegian content creators on TikTok who produce engaging and entertaining videos, giving you a glimpse into everyday language use and culture. Here are some content creators that I think speaks Norwegian fairly clearly:

- 4nine- Personal opinions, feminism

- Utlending.memes- Sarcastic humour about the Norwegian society

- Bennibravo- Fitness and humour

- Birkelandemilie- motherhood, pregnancy and travels

- Sofieenilsen- vlogs about life, makeup

- Middag_om30- Food channel with easy to follow recipes

- VG and TV2- Newschannels in Norway

Another excellent resource is NRK, Norway's national broadcasting corporation, which offers a wide range of shows, documentaries, and news programs in Norwegian. Unfortunately, access to NRK content is restricted to those living in Norway. 

While there aren` t many resources specifically designed with comprehensible input in mind, these options can still be valuable supplements to your learning experience. By diversifying your exposure to the language through various forms of media, you can enhance your understanding and enjoyment of Norwegian.

Not at all. Comprehensible input theory suggests that anyone can learn a language by immersing themselves in understandable and engaging content, without the need for a traditional teacher. Many people successfully learn languages on their own by consistently exposing themselves to comprehensible input. I personally learned spanish by myself through comprehensible input, and I know this method works even without a teacher.

That being said, a teacher can still be a valuable asset in your language learning journey. A teacher can provide guidance on assessing your current proficiency level and help you identify appropriate resources to match your learning needs. Classes with a teacher can also be fun and interactive, offering engaging input that keeps you motivated. Additionally, when your level of Norwegian is high enough and you begin to focus more on output, a teacher can provide useful feedback and practice opportunities to refine your speaking and writing skills.

For those who have a particular interest in the grammar and structure of the language, a teacher can be especially helpful. They can explain complex grammatical concepts and answer specific questions that might arise as you progress. While it's entirely possible to learn Norwegian on your own through comprehensible input, having a teacher can enhance your learning experience by providing structured support, personalized feedback, and additional motivation.

The amount of time one should spend on comprehensible input when learning a language can vary based on individual goals, availability, and learning preferences. However, general guidelines suggest:

1. Consistency Over Quantity: It is more effective to engage with comprehensible input regularly rather than in sporadic, long sessions. Aim for daily exposure.

2. Optimal Time Recommendations:

- Minimum Effective Dose: Around 30 minutes per day can yield noticeable progress, especially for beginners.

- Ideal Range: 1-2 hours per day is often recommended for more significant progress and better retention.

- Intensive Learning: For those aiming for rapid advancement, spending 3 or more hours per day can accelerate the learning process.

3. Quality Matters: Ensure the input is truly comprehensible. Material should be slightly above your current level, challenging enough to introduce new vocabulary and structures but not so difficult that it becomes frustrating.

4. Diverse Sources: Use a variety of sources such as books, podcasts, videos, and conversations to keep the learning process engaging and cover different aspects of the language.

5. Incorporate Interests: Choose content that interests you. This increases motivation and makes the learning process enjoyable.

Ultimately, the key is to find a balance that fits your schedule and keeps you motivated. Regular, focused exposure to comprehensible input is crucial for language acquisition.

The total time it takes to understand a language through comprehensible input varies widely depending on several factors:

1. Language Difficulty: Languages closely related to your native language typically take less time to learn. For example, for an English speaker, Norwegian or Spanish will be easier to learn than Chinese or Arabic.

2. Learning Environment: Immersion in a country where the language is spoken can significantly speed up the process compared to learning in a non-immersive environment.

3. Consistency and Intensity: The amount of time spent daily on comprehensible input and the consistency of practice greatly affect the total learning time.

4. Personal Factors: Your prior experience with learning languages, cognitive abilities, and motivation also play significant roles.

Based on the Foreign Service Institute (FSI) estimates for English speakers, here is a rough guide:

Category I Languages (e.g., Spanish, French): Approximately 600-750 hours of study. This equates to about 6-12 months with regular practice of 1-2 hours per day. (1200- 1500 hours for "fluency")

Category II Languages (e.g., Norwegian, German): Around 750-900 hours of study. This translates to 9-18 months with regular practice. (1500- 1800 hours for "fluency")

Category III Languages (e.g., Russian, Vietnamese): Roughly 1100 hours of study. This can take about 1-2 years with consistent practice. (2000-3000 hours for "fluency"

Category IV Languages (e.g., Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Korean): Approximately 2200 hours of study. This means around 2-4 years of regular practice. (4000-6000 hours for "fluency")

Example Calculations

1 hour per day for a Category I language: 600-750 days (around 1.5-2 years).

2 hours per day for a Category I language: 300-375 days (around 1 year).

3 hours per day for a Category IV language: 733-733 days (around 2-2.5 years).

Practical Tips

- Start with 1-2 hours daily and gradually increase: This helps build a solid habit without overwhelming yourself.

- Immerse as much as possible: If full immersion isn't possible, try to create an immersive environment through media, conversations, and language meetups.

Remember, these are estimates and actual time can vary. The key is consistent, engaging practice with comprehensible input.

While there's no upper limit on how much comprehensible input one should get every day, practical considerations can help ensure that the learning remains effective and sustainable. Spending too many hours on language input in one day can lead to cognitive overload and fatigue, reducing the effectiveness of learning. It's important to take breaks and avoid burnout. Additionally, the effectiveness of comprehensible input is more important than the sheer amount. It's better to have focused and engaged learning sessions rather than prolonged periods where your attention wanes.

Your daily routine and commitments will affect how much time you can realistically dedicate to language learning. It's better to be consistent with a manageable amount of time each day than to have sporadic long sessions. Beginners might aim for 30 minutes to 2 hours daily to build a habit without feeling overwhelmed, while intermediate learners could handle 1 to 3 hours. Advanced learners can extend their sessions to 2 to 4 hours, but should still ensure a variety of input types and take regular breaks.

In summary, while there's no limit, balancing input with cognitive breaks and ensuring consistency are key to effective and enjoyable language learning.

No. When learning a language through comprehensible input, it is more effective to focus on understanding and using the language in context rather than explicitly studying grammar. The primary idea behind comprehensible input is that grammar is automatically acquired when the brain is ready to learn it. This approach emphasizes acquiring the language naturally, similar to how children learn their first language.

Engaging with comprehensible input involves being exposed to language that is slightly above your current proficiency level. By understanding this input, you naturally pick up grammatical structures and vocabulary. This method allows you to recognize patterns and structures without the need for formal grammar study. For instance, you might start using the correct past tense forms because you've frequently encountered them in context, rather than because you've memorized grammar rules.

While some learners might find occasional grammar study helpful to clarify specific points, it should not be the main focus. The goal is to immerse yourself in the language through listening, reading, and engaging in conversations. This way, you allow your brain to absorb and internalize the grammatical rules naturally over time.

In summary, when learning a language through comprehensible input, prioritize understanding and using the language in meaningful contexts. Trust that your brain will acquire the necessary grammar when it is ready, making the learning process more natural and enjoyable.

We can compare the two:

Impact on children

- Children are naturally exposed to comprehensible input through daily interactions with caregivers, peers, and educators. They often receive language input in a context that is meaningful and relevant to them.

- Their cognitive systems are primed to absorb language in this manner, as their brains are geared toward picking up patterns and meanings from context.

- The environments children are in typically offer a lot of scaffolding, where adults simplify and repeat language, providing rich comprehensible input that facilitates learning.

Impact on Adults:

- Adults can more consciously seek out and engage with comprehensible input through reading, listening, and interacting with native speakers. They can use resources like graded readers, language apps, and immersion experiences tailored to their proficiency level.

- Adults have more developed analytical skills and can leverage these to understand and internalize the structure and rules of a new language, aiding in their comprehension and retention.

- Adults often have specific goals and motivations for learning a language, which can drive them to consistently seek out comprehensible input and practice more effectively.

Comparative Ease:

Children: They benefit from a natural, immersive environment where comprehensible input is part of their daily life, making language acquisition feel effortless and intuitive

Adults: While they might face more initial challenges, adults who effectively utilize comprehensible input can achieve significant language learning success. Their ability to deliberately seek out and engage with appropriate language materials can compensate for the natural advantages children have.

Conclusion:

While children still have an advantage due to brain plasticity and natural immersion in language-rich environments, adults who strategically use comprehensible input can learn languages efficiently. The differences in ease of language learning between children and adults can be mitigated to some extent by adults' ability to consciously engage with and exploit comprehensible input.