Showing posts with label tandem partners. Show all posts
Showing posts with label tandem partners. Show all posts

5.09.2009

Easy as A, B, C

Ever wonder how some people seem to learn a new language effortlessly, while you struggle with all your might to learn basic vocabulary and pronounciation?

Maybe they know something that you don't.


A language can be learned anywhere and everywhere, at any time. The trick is to flip a little switch in your mind to be processing it at all times. In other words, surround yourself with language. Make it something that you can't put off and ignore.

One easy way to practice vocabulary in the language you're learning is to put post-it notes with vocabulary all over your house. This way, you'll be forced to associate the object with its name in the foreign language you're learning. When you see one, say it out loud. Don't forget to add accents and articles to help. As you get more advanced, you can start writing entire phrases.

Another way to help you learn a foreign language is to immerse yourself in media as much as possible. Watch t.v. or movie clips in the language, listen to music, the radio, and read everything you can get your hands on. LangoLAB is a valuable resource for this - just click, watch, click, learn.

A third great way to get to know how a language is actually used is to make friends with native speakers. Check your local university for language tables, where native speakers go to chat with people learning their language. They can shed light on things besides the grammar you're learning in the classroom and give you an insiders' view of culture.

Lastly, take every opportunity to speak the language. A typical problem with traditional foreign language instruction is that learners read and listen much more than they actually speak. So when you have the chance to talk to someone who knows the language you're learning, take full advantage! Talk their ears off!

These are just four ways to bring foreign language into your life. Please comment with your favorite way to learn a foreign language!
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