Principle of Anticipation

• The first key principle of the Pimsleur Method is anticipation. This concept focuses on an "input-output" system of learning in which the teacher poses a question to the student. The student answers the question from memory, drawing on information previously given. The instructor confirms the student's answer.
  
  In other methods of teaching languages, professors focus on repetition rather than interaction. Pimsleur discovered that the learning process is accelerated when a student is asked to actively retrieve and apply information rather than rely on rote repetition.
  
  To practice this technique while learning a language, ask a spouse or close friend to ask you several questions from your most recent lesson. Supply them with the questions written out phonetically along with the proper answers.
  
  

Graduated Interval Recall

• The second principle of the Pimsleur Technique is graduated interval recall, which deals with effective memory management. Pimsleur discovered that the retention of a language is strongly correlated to the intervals between learning information and being asked to recall it. Thus, the Pimsleur Method asks the student to recall words at progressively longer intervals, which assists in moving learned information from short-term to long-term memory.
  
  Many other methods eliminate this step, storing words in short-term memory. While repetition usually results in long-term memorization and comprehension, the Pimsleur Method allows students to learn and use a foreign language in daily interactions immediately.
  
  Practice this technique between lessons by holding on to the questions your spouse or friend has been asking you. Have that person periodically throw in an older question from a previous list to improve your graduated interval recall.
  
  

Core Vocabulary Acquisition

• In addition to the two key principles, the Pimsleur Method incorporates core vocabulary acquisition. This asserts that the emphasis of language learning should be on "function words" such as "to be," "to go," "and," "but," "for," and "also." The student learns the structure of the language itself, rather than focusing on more specific and less useful "content words."
  
  

Finding a Course

• Official Pimsleur Method course materials are offered in pre-determined blocks that cover lessons ranging from basic vocabulary and greetings to complicated conversational topics and understanding emotional responses. The courses are offered on CDs, along with supplemental booklets that aid in pronunciation. Because the Pimsleur Method relies on interaction with the instructor, users are expected to speak aloud when prompted by the CDs in order to get the full benefits of the course.