Learning a new language can feel impossible at times. There are thousands of languages and thousands of words to go along with each language. With each complex language comes a culture and a history. It can be overwhelming to attempt to learn a new language and to stick with it. Here are 5 simple ways to help you learn a new language!
1. Movies, Movies, Movies!
Watching foreign movies with subtitles really help you learn another language. You are exposed to the normal speed of native speakers from different countries and variety of slang terms. You’d be surprised how much you actually can understand. I think it’s a lot easier to understand the language used in actual conversations than from a textbook. Plus, who doesn’t love watching movies while simultaneously learning a new language? Check that off your bucket list!
2. Journal Your Experiences Studying abroad throughout college is an excellent opportunity to learn about a new culture and language. If you really want to be fully immersed in a new language, journal your time there! Write down words and expressions you hear native speakers say and translate them later. Write down the names of the foods you are eating, the names of buildings and streets, the names of paintings in art museums. All of this information will help you associate words with memories and experiences.
3. Listen to the MusicListening to music and radio interviews are one of my favorite ways to learn. Many songs by Shakira and Enrique Iglesias are in Spanish so naturally, singing along to a catchy song helps you understand and remember the lyrics. By singing the songs- even if you don’t understand it completely- helps you learn new words. The song “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi featuring Justin Bieber is a perfect example. Despacito means “slowly”. Even if you don’t understand the lyrics, you’re already exposed to a new word just from the title.
4. Speak As Much As you Possibly can It is easy to think of words in our head but to say them out loud and try to have a flawless conversation is the real challenge. The most effective way to speak well is to speak with other native speakers. Realize that it’s okay to make mistakes. Learn to laugh at yourself when you make mistakes rather than beat yourself up over it. Anyone who tells you otherwise is wrong! To save you some awkwardness, here’s one crucial tip for Spanish learners: contrary to what you make think, embarazada does NOT mean embarrassed. I learned that one the hard way… it means pregnant. Go figure.
5. Have Passion and Have Fun! Part of being successful in learning a new language is being passionate about what you are learning. In order to become fluent in any language, make sure you really enjoy what you are learning. Personally, I love the Spanish language and its fluidity. Throughout high school, it was so easy for me to learn it because I loved it, whereas others struggled with it because they were not interested. Find a language and culture you are fascinated by and start there. Lastly, have fun with it! Learn ALL the words!
Each and every language is unique and beautiful. Learning to communicate in different languages open up new opportunities everywhere you turn. Dive into a new language without fear! With dedication and time, you can have another language under your belt!
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