At the beginning, learning a new language may seem a bit overwhelming. However, as you progress and improve, you soon realize that it is really fun! The key to learning a new language is to expose yourself to the language as much as possible. Here is a list of a few tips to consider during your language studies:
- Read more often
A warm cup of tea and a great book is the perfect way to spend an afternoon on a chilly winter day! Try to read books, brochures, and news articles in the language you are interested in learning. You can even change the language settings on your phone or computer to be more immersed in the language. At the start, it can be somewhat challenging! Make sure you have a dictionary at hand so you can look up, write down, and keep track of any new vocabulary words or expressions you encounter.
- Turn on the radio
Listening to native speakers is a great way to learn a foreign language. Not only does it expose you to new vocabulary or expressions, but it also helps you hear the pronunciation of various words. You can listen to news reports, music/radio, or even watch TV shows or movies in the language you are interested in!
- Take language courses
Taking courses gives you the opportunity to gain more guidance and feedback from your instructor and peers, anywhere from your grammar to your pronunciation. It also allows you to practice speaking the language with your classmates.
- Practice, practice, practice
The key to success is practice! As you are learning the language, it is important to continue practicing and reviewing what you have already learned. As the expression goes, “if you don’t use it, you lose it.”
- Oh, the places you’ll go!
Travelling to parts of the world that speak the language of interest is one of the best ways to learn not only the language, but also the culture. You can try volunteering, studying, or working abroad. No doubt, it would be an amazing experience you’d never forget!
I hope these tips help you during your language studies! To finish off, here is a quotation from Nelson Mandela to inspire and encourage you to continue learning new languages:
“If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart.” ‒Nelson Mandela