Getting Information

Abstract

When learning new words and phrases, it will be helpful to make a distinction between active and passive knowledge. For example, you will need to be able to ask the telephone operator a few basic questions (active knowledge). You will need to understand what he or she is saying in return, but you are unlikely to have to use these phrases yourself (passive knowledge). So to economize on what you try to remember go for phrases you are most likely to need to say, and concentrate on those first. Then develop strategies for recognizing the others. Eventually and with lots more practice, some of the passive skills will no doubt turn into active ones without your even noticing it.