Hey language friends! Bree here! In a previous blog post, I shared how I use “how-to” articles in my target language to fill gaps in my vocabulary. Today, I want to share a technique that’s helped me improve my writing abilities even more….copywork!
Yes, copywork! Copying passages by hand has been a game-changer for me. Stick around, and I’ll show you exactly how to copywork for language learning, boost your memory, and improve writing in your target language.
Not to brag, but I’m really good at reading Spanish. If I’m reading something in a genre I’m comfortable with, I can understand most of it—even if I stumble on an unfamiliar word here or there. Usually, I can keep up with the plot without grabbing a dictionary.
But here’s the thing: I still struggle with noticing small details.
When you read, do you carefully track every… single… word… like… this? Or do you breeze through in chunks, skimming phrases instead of individual words? If you’re like most people (including me), you probably read in chunks. That’s great for speed—but it’s not so great when you’re trying to master the specific patterns of a new language.
When I read in Spanish, I often gloss over connector words, verb endings, or prepositions (like the, a, and, if, etc.). Why? Because I don’t need to notice them to enjoy a story. My brain fills in the blanks.
But here’s the catch: If I want to use those little words and endings correctly when I write or speak, I do need to notice them.
For a while, I figured this problem would solve itself if I just read more. For some people, that might work. But for me, it didn’t (thanks, ADHD).
I realized that if I wanted to start noticing the small details, I’d have to do it intentionally.
That’s where copywork comes in.
Ok, so you’re sold on the idea, but you’re probably wondering: “What is copywork anyway?”
Copywork is exactly what it sounds like: copying a passage by hand.
It’s a popular practice in the homeschooling community. Students and aspiring writers often use copywork and copy texts of famous authors in order to improve their writing skills in their native language.
The concept is the same for your target language! I look for passages that I enjoy in my target language and then copy them out by hand.
Copywork forces you to slow down. Instead of skimming, you have to pay attention to every word, punctuation mark, and nuance of the text. It’s a mindful activity that trains your brain to notice patterns you might otherwise miss.
For me, this has been the best way to fix my bad habit of glossing over small details. And while copywork isn’t included in the Refold roadmap, many of us in the Refold community swear by it. A few of us even have a small copywork club!
If you’re curious about trying copywork, here are a few tips to help you get the most out of it:
What do you think? Have I convinced you to give copywork a try? I definitely recommend it! It’s a lot of fun, and it’s a great way to boost your concentration and notice things you’ve been struggling with!
Want to go beyond copywork and take your writing to the next level? Click the button below to read my blog about one of my favorite writing exercises— reaction writing!
Learn About Reaction Writing