Learning a foreign language is not always enjoyable or easy to do. Vocabulary, irregular verbs, grammar, accent … there’s a whole range of difficulties that may stop you from learning it. However, learning a new language can be a source of personal enrichment that gives you many professional opportunities. Here are 10 tips on how to learn a new language.
Learning a language at an early age
Yes, it is a well known fact, children learn more easily than adults. So why not teach them a second language at a young age? Moreover, learning enables the brain to develop more easily; children will therefore gain other benefits as a result of learning a foreign language.
There’s nothing better than spending +6 months abroad
You can take advantage of the free time you have as a teenager and opt for a scholarship that allows you to study in another country. Besides having fun and creating new memories with your new friends, learning a new language will become easier than ever. Your foreign friends will be there to support you and help you develop your communication skills.
Watch plenty of movies in series in another language
If you don’t have money or means to live in another country for an undetermined period of time, keep in mind that there are other alternatives. Watching movies and TV-series with or without subtitles is a great way to have a much clearer understanding of the language you are trying to learn.
Learn by sentences, not by words
Learning words alone may not be the right method. Indeed, it is often difficult to reuse them in the right context. That’s why it is advisable to learn whole sentences that can be used in a particular situation.
Repeat, repeat, repeat
If you repeat for almost 15 minutes a day every morning you can retain information much easier. Indeed, studying is good, but the key is to remember! Reread the same phrases several times, this will help you master the language.
Do not focus only on grammar
Certainly, grammar and irregular verbs are important. However, the main key is to understand how the language works in general. It’s advisable to read books in foreign language and look for words you don’t know in a dictionary.
Practice by talking with others
After you have a basic knowledge of the language, the second step is to engage in conversation with another foreign person. It’s great if you already have some foreign friends online. Otherwise, try to register on forums or practice speaking the language with a teacher face-to-face or by telephone. Practice is key to success!
Dare to make mistakes
Even if you worked hard, beginner’s mistakes are inevitable. However, it is important not to focus on the past and keep a positive attitude. Try to be clear and coherent when you talk in another language and let others correct you.
Set yourself goals
Learning a new language can sometimes be long and tedious, so we must be careful. Setting goals is essential in order to learn a language more efficiently. For example, you can try repeating certain phrases for 15 minutes/day or learn 10 new words every day.
Diversify your learning style
Read, watch films, talk with friends … No matter how, the most important thing is that you take pleasure in learning the language. Meet foreigners and spend time with them. Spend some time abroad and have small talk with others.
