The keys to learning languages
Posted: Mon Dec 23, 2024 8:30 am
In the case of languages, I have had to study and use five different ones. Of these, English is the one I have lived with and struggled with the longest, although it is also the one I have used the most to communicate, not only with speakers of this language but as a common language with other people who did not know my language. But with each one I have suffered its difficulties and enjoyed using them. From this experience I have been able to draw the following conclusions that I share with you below:
1.- Although languages that are more similar to Spanish, such as Italian, Portuguese and, to a lesser extent, French, are quicker to assimilate than others with completely different structures, words or spellings, all languages can be learned correctly . Success in using a language as a means of communication depends essentially on two aspects: your desire to be able to use that language and your patience when learning it.
2.- You gradually forget a language, even your mother tongue, if you don't use it or review it. And for that you should plan some time during the week to use it.
3.- Studying grammar or the way a language is structured is almost always more boring, complex and laborious than learning words or expressions, but it is absolutely necessary to speak well . As a student, I have followed methods based on learning only words and expressions in a language, which in the end lead you to memorize much more and think much less. Therefore, I advise you to prepare and mentally prepare yourself for this work at the beginning of your training in any language.
Studying languages like English can be bearable
4.- Being able to express yourself in a language always has a motivating effect. When you do so, you will discover what you can say, ask and understand, but you will also discover your limitations in vocabulary and expressions. Don't worry about making mistakes or not having enough vocabulary, we all make them even in our mother tongue. However, try to take notes and study or review common words and expressions to try not to make mistakes again.
5.- Having a manual that contains the grammatical fundamentals of the language will help you review it when you feel it is necessary. I recommend it, it is very helpful and if you have it in paper form, it will tire your eyes less than if you have it in PDF or another electronic format.
6.- Don't get discouraged if you think you're not making progress or if you're trying landline number format philippines unsuccessfully to understand a radio or television programme in that language or a film. It's about thinking positively, realising what you know and not what you don't know.
7.- Working in a group can help you with your motivation because you can see in other students the problems that you have or have had when studying that language and you can communicate with them without the complexes that you may have with natives or people with a higher level, using what you know and what you don't. If you study online, sharing your experiences through specialized forums can also be helpful.
8.- In languages widely used in different countries such as English, French or Spanish, there are different accents and expressions specific to each country. That is why it can sometimes be difficult to understand people who speak a language you know, even if you have a good level of proficiency. It is positive to know and speak the language with the correct pronunciation, but if you don't, don't worry, you won't be the only one, as long as you make yourself understood.
9.- There are numerous resources on the Internet to practice and review a language. Explanatory videos, films and radio and television broadcasts, online press, forums, blogs... Try to find them and use them regularly, gradually learning expressions, vocabulary, pronunciation or even the culture of the country.
10.- Always have a reason to continue studying , reviewing or practicing a language. It is the most effective way to continue improving continuously in the same language without getting tired, losing motivation, or giving up.
Although there will always be people who are more good at languages, anyone can do it, not just when they are young but at any age. Will you try it? I encourage you to do so.
1.- Although languages that are more similar to Spanish, such as Italian, Portuguese and, to a lesser extent, French, are quicker to assimilate than others with completely different structures, words or spellings, all languages can be learned correctly . Success in using a language as a means of communication depends essentially on two aspects: your desire to be able to use that language and your patience when learning it.
2.- You gradually forget a language, even your mother tongue, if you don't use it or review it. And for that you should plan some time during the week to use it.
3.- Studying grammar or the way a language is structured is almost always more boring, complex and laborious than learning words or expressions, but it is absolutely necessary to speak well . As a student, I have followed methods based on learning only words and expressions in a language, which in the end lead you to memorize much more and think much less. Therefore, I advise you to prepare and mentally prepare yourself for this work at the beginning of your training in any language.
Studying languages like English can be bearable
4.- Being able to express yourself in a language always has a motivating effect. When you do so, you will discover what you can say, ask and understand, but you will also discover your limitations in vocabulary and expressions. Don't worry about making mistakes or not having enough vocabulary, we all make them even in our mother tongue. However, try to take notes and study or review common words and expressions to try not to make mistakes again.
5.- Having a manual that contains the grammatical fundamentals of the language will help you review it when you feel it is necessary. I recommend it, it is very helpful and if you have it in paper form, it will tire your eyes less than if you have it in PDF or another electronic format.
6.- Don't get discouraged if you think you're not making progress or if you're trying landline number format philippines unsuccessfully to understand a radio or television programme in that language or a film. It's about thinking positively, realising what you know and not what you don't know.
7.- Working in a group can help you with your motivation because you can see in other students the problems that you have or have had when studying that language and you can communicate with them without the complexes that you may have with natives or people with a higher level, using what you know and what you don't. If you study online, sharing your experiences through specialized forums can also be helpful.
8.- In languages widely used in different countries such as English, French or Spanish, there are different accents and expressions specific to each country. That is why it can sometimes be difficult to understand people who speak a language you know, even if you have a good level of proficiency. It is positive to know and speak the language with the correct pronunciation, but if you don't, don't worry, you won't be the only one, as long as you make yourself understood.
9.- There are numerous resources on the Internet to practice and review a language. Explanatory videos, films and radio and television broadcasts, online press, forums, blogs... Try to find them and use them regularly, gradually learning expressions, vocabulary, pronunciation or even the culture of the country.
10.- Always have a reason to continue studying , reviewing or practicing a language. It is the most effective way to continue improving continuously in the same language without getting tired, losing motivation, or giving up.
Although there will always be people who are more good at languages, anyone can do it, not just when they are young but at any age. Will you try it? I encourage you to do so.