It can be tough to learn a second language. If you were lucky enough to grow up with parents who spoke more than one language or went to a school that taught second languages, that's great. But what if you want to learn a second language now that you are older? The good news is that you can use a lot of helpful tools.
There are many good reasons to learn a second language. You can easily talk to people in another language and say what you think, feel, and believe in that language. Some languages can help you get along better with other people and make more money from your dealings and businesses.
It's not easy to learn a foreign language. To get the basics right, a person needs to work hard on words, grammar, and phrases. Here are some ways to learn a language more quickly and easily:
- Take your time
You need to spend more time on a language if you want to learn it perfectly. You should read different books written in the language you prefer. You can learn how to speak and write in a language by listening to music and conversations in that language. If you are having trouble with a foreign language, ask for help. You can also use it to talk with other people.
- Programs for computers
There are many different kinds of multimedia programmes you can use to learn on your computer if you like to do that. Most have lessons that look like flashcards or videos, and you can use a microphone to practise speaking the language. Rosetta Stone software is a great example. They use a method called "total immersion," which can be hard at first but will help you understand more if you stick with it.
- Travel Abroad
Taking a lot of trips to different countries will help you understand how they live and what they value. You can see and understand their traditions, values, and how important language is to them. You might hear the native language of a place and only learn a few words.
- On-Line Programs
Online, there are many ways to learn a second language. This gives you the benefit of being able to study right away and from any computer. There is an online version of Rosetta Stone. There are also many websites with language guides and dictionaries.
- Get to know the core of each language
Languages are the most important part of a person's life. It is a great way to let other people know how you think and gives you a chance to figure out what other people are thinking and doing. Without a language, it's hard to stay alive, so value it and learn it well.
- Audio Programs
If you don't have a computer or like to learn while doing other things, like sitting in traffic, an audio programme may be best for you. I think the Pimsleur programmes are good. They have you listen to a word or phrase from a native speaker and then give you a chance to say it back. Even if you get tired of saying it, you will learn it.
- Full Submersion
Living in a country where the language is spoken is by far the best way to learn it. You will still need to use one or more of the above methods, but if you can do it while living with people who speak the language, you will learn much faster and speak better. No matter how good the programme or class is, it can't replace living in the language. You might not be able to move to a different country, but if you can study there for two weeks to a month, it will be worth it.
