Learning a new language is challenging. Yet thousands of adults manage to learn a new language every year. The Internet has made it easier thanks to all the resources now available. You can learn a new language — if you put in the effort.
1. Decide to Learn A New Language. Your resolve is going to see you through.
2. Choose a Language You'll Use. Select a language you will use or want to use regularly, because when you stop using the language, it will start fading from memory.
3. Focus on Grammar. Grammar is one of the most important pieces of the puzzle. If you learn the general format of sentences you will feel more comfortable as you talk or write the language. For example, English uses the basic format of a Subject, Verb, then Object. Remember that from grade school? It will feel like that all over again.
4. Don't Forget Pronunciation. Words may sound similar but they may not always mean the same thing as in your native language. You run the risk of saying something you didn’t mean to say. Practice your pronunciation with someone who is fluent.
5. Practice, Practice, Practice. Repetition is key to learning the language. Try setting aside an hour a day in short bursts. For example, practice 15 minutes on the way to work, 20 minutes after the kids fall asleep or spend half of your lunch learning the new language.
6. Get a Language Buddy. See if you can find a partner who wants to learn English and speaks your target language. This way they can help you practice, correct you pronunciation and grammar, and give you a sense of the culture you can’t get from books. Online communication tools, like Skype, make this connection easier to obtain.
7. Watch Foreign Language Movies On Youtube. YouTube is a hotbed for learning languages. From videos with help on pronunciation to full length foreign language movies, YouTube and other similar video sites have access to the language material you need to succeed.
8. Get An Online Tutor. Depending on the language you want to learn, you can get a native tutor very inexpensively and use web-based communication tools, like Skype, to communicate.
9. Learn the Language online. There’s little difference between taking a language course on the web or in the classroom. You’ll still need to learn the language and use resources beyond the language program you are using, but you’ll also be saving time and transportation costs.
10. Visit a country where the language is prevalent. After all your language study and practice, visit the country where your language of choice is the official language. Try to speak your new language for the entire trip.
Learning a new language is never easy, but the web makes it easier for you. Perseverance is key to becoming fluent in the new language. Remember: practice, practice, practice.
