One of the most popular topics covered here at the HippoCampus student blog is the process of learning a second language. In past posts, we’ve covered some of the benefits that come along with multilingualism, as well as a few methods to consider when pursuing such a talent. This week, we’ll take a look at a few other ways to learn another language.
With the advent of social networks, it should come as no surprise that cyber-immersion is good way to go for a bit of conversational practice. Some sites, like voxswap.com, actually specialize in bringing together like-minded language learners. Becoming a member is free, and in a few minutes you could be browsing through a cornucopia of possible pen-pals. There are even brief video lessons for some supplementary viewing. Of course, it might be a good idea to join such a site with some baseline skill in your target language, as the initial communication barrier will be rather big. Of course, with the right teacher, you might be able to start anywhere. You never know until you look.
Media consumption can also be a huge help. The next time you watch a movie, try switching on the sub-titles for a real-time translation to follow as you are entertained. Other possible supplementary sources include television, talk radio, music, books, news, and even comic strips- if it’s in a language that you wish you knew, try to understand it!
Vocabulary-building is critical to confidence in communication. Try signing up for a word-a-day email, or write down any words you don’t understand to look up later. You could also try pinning small notes with translations for household objects throughout your home. This way, every time you go to the fridge, you’ll be reminded what the word for “refrigerator” is in your target language.
It’s important to remember not to be afraid of making mistakes. While communicating in a perfect accent with flawless grammar is a great goal to have, it will take a while to get there. But like most things, if you break the task into smaller goals, you’ll have more fun and learn faster. Don’t be afraid of looking silly if you stumble through a conversation- most people will be delighted to see you trying to learn their language, and will probably take steps to help you out. Just keep practicing!
Showing posts with label speaking. Show all posts
Showing posts with label speaking. Show all posts
Feb 8, 2010
Apr 13, 2009
Ways To Learn A Foreign Language
In February, we outlined a few of the benefits that come along with learning a second language, including social advantages and improved cognitive function. This week, we will explore a few ways to develop this special skill and get you going on the path towards bilingual ability.
The best possible place to learn a new language is not in a classroom, but rather in a locale where that language is spoken exclusively. Learners will find themselves challenged more frequently and significantly when confronted with daily tasks and scenarios that call upon their ability to effectively communicate to get what they want. Simple situations like ordering food in a restaurant, directing a taxi cab home, or shopping for clothes will call upon the speaker to incorporate a variety of different words and tenses to try to convey what they are after. The brain is much more apt to learn what is necessary if required to do so to simply get through the day.
Although it is not optimal, taking a language class is the next best thing to re-location. Local community colleges will usually offer many different levels for interested students, and the human-to-human interaction is critical. You also have the added benefit of continual practice, with homework and regular class schedules figuring into your routine.
If time conflicts and a busy agenda are the issue, there are still several other avenues to explore. There are many programs available for the computer that allow the user to learn a language at their own pace. The most popular of these is Rosetta Stone, which incorporates text, pictures, and audio to help progress along the way.
Like most learned skills, the key to all these methods is practice. Supplement your plan with activities that help keep your lingual ability sharp, such as a pen pal or e-mail buddy (which helps with slang and common usage you might not get from a language curriculum). The more you practice, the more fluent you’ll become. You’ll find that you reach a point where changing between languages is as simple as flipping a switch, a skill that’s not just useful, but quite impressive as well!
The best possible place to learn a new language is not in a classroom, but rather in a locale where that language is spoken exclusively. Learners will find themselves challenged more frequently and significantly when confronted with daily tasks and scenarios that call upon their ability to effectively communicate to get what they want. Simple situations like ordering food in a restaurant, directing a taxi cab home, or shopping for clothes will call upon the speaker to incorporate a variety of different words and tenses to try to convey what they are after. The brain is much more apt to learn what is necessary if required to do so to simply get through the day.
Although it is not optimal, taking a language class is the next best thing to re-location. Local community colleges will usually offer many different levels for interested students, and the human-to-human interaction is critical. You also have the added benefit of continual practice, with homework and regular class schedules figuring into your routine.
If time conflicts and a busy agenda are the issue, there are still several other avenues to explore. There are many programs available for the computer that allow the user to learn a language at their own pace. The most popular of these is Rosetta Stone, which incorporates text, pictures, and audio to help progress along the way.
Like most learned skills, the key to all these methods is practice. Supplement your plan with activities that help keep your lingual ability sharp, such as a pen pal or e-mail buddy (which helps with slang and common usage you might not get from a language curriculum). The more you practice, the more fluent you’ll become. You’ll find that you reach a point where changing between languages is as simple as flipping a switch, a skill that’s not just useful, but quite impressive as well!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
