Wouldn’t it be nice if you could easily upload foreign languages by putting microchips to your brain? Okay, maybe it sounds a tad futuristic and creepy too! However, it is not possible – yet.
Fortunately, you can learn to speak a new language confidently in a relatively short period of time. Here are some tips:
1. TAKE OUT THE EXCUSES AND FEARS
In order to learn a foreign language successfully, you must wash away the excuses and fear inside of you. Whether it is fear of making mistakes, fear of being ridiculed or fear of looking stupid, all your worries will only hold you back. Realize instead that communication is designed to understand each other and never to look down upon someone.
2. SET GOALS
Set an attainable and realistic goal to start with. While you are at it, reward yourself for every milestone you reached. For instance, you may begin with learning at least 50 words in 3-6 months. Then, slowly pick up the pace to learn the grammar too.
3. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FREE ONLINE COURSES
Upon digging through all the free resources in the web, I found that two websites shine from the rest namely: Omniglot and Open Culture. Omniglot has a user-friendly interface that allows you to find the language you desire from the “language index” that is fixed alphabetically. Simply scroll down to find the course links.
Alternatively, you can browse through the collection of featured lessons provided by Open Culture. It consists of 48 languages including French, Mandarin, English, Spanish, and more. Simply download the audio lessons to your computer or music player (mp3 format) to pick it up easily.
4. DOWNLOAD AN AWESOME APP
Want a fun way to learn a new language? Then, download the gamified language tutor App called Duolingo. I am personally in love with Duolingo. More than just learning the basic phrases, it allows you to test your skills in written and spoken language. This is why “Yo entiendo Español.”
Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)
5. INTERACT IN THE NEW LANGUAGE
One of the best ways to absorb a foreign language is to interact with others. It will teach you naturally and spontaneously to express your thoughts instead of mentally translating every word before you say it.