subject: Mastering A Second Language [print this page] Learning to speak another dialect can most definitely be a challenge, especially for those that have never had experience doing so before. It requires a great deal of studying and patience.
However, the benefits of being able to communicate in a language that is not your own are huge. You may find that you can find better jobs or be paid a higher salary; you have more freedom when it comes to traveling, and it can give you a better understanding of the idiom that you already speak.
It has been suggested to start early and that children and young teenagers adapt easier to the new system of expressing themselves. However, no matter what age you are, it is still possible to know and understand dialects that you have never spoken.
The first thing that you must decide is which you would like to learn; this may depend on your occupation, the area of a country that you live in, or your interests and travel goals. Some are easier and more available than others, as far as classes and instructors go, so you should probably take this into consideration when deciding.
Probably the most popular and sought after second languages today, at least in the United States, are Spanish, French, and sometimes Chinese. You should take into account that you may be able to utilize in business endeavors.
Once you have decided, the next step is to determine how you are going to learn. There are a number of different programs available that you can use in your own free time.
This may be the best option for those that have a full working schedule or find that they have little time for themselves throughout the week. That way, you can put the program into your computer whenever you have a few spare moments and work on a lesson or two.
Those that have a hard time with motivation or teaching themselves things may want to forego this method and seek out a class or personal instructor. Though this may take more time out of your schedule, it will be beneficial because you will have a fluent speaker of the idiom teaching you the basics.
There are a number of different places to find classes, including colleges, community centers, libraries, and churches. Most will require some form of payment, so make sure that you have the funds available to pay for the course and the needed materials.
You may also want to get advice from others regarding the instructor and their teaching style. Many individuals have a specific way of learning that works best for them, and if your teacher does not follow that protocol, you may find it extra difficult to understand their lessons.
If you are taking a course from a college, speak to a counselor or other students that you know have taken it. You could also set up a personal meeting with the teacher to discuss what you are hoping to gain knowledge of.
When you are in class, make sure that you understand each concept. You may wish to do so before moving on to others, since principles of language are built upon each other.
If you find that you are not able to understand, request the help of a tutor or another student that is not having as much trouble. A great way to immerse yourself in the dialect is to find texts and materials other than the one that is required for your course and use them as supplemental learning tools.
This will be beneficial if a concept is not being made clear by your instructor or book; other reading material may explain something more clearly or more in tune with your understanding.
One of the best ways to really understand it is to immerse yourself and expose yourself to the language. If you are learning Spanish, visit a Mexican restaurant or market where you can speak to others and try out your skills.
There are all kinds of ways that you can practice; most native speakers will be happy to converse with you and politely tell you if you make a mistake. Gaining knowledge of another way of expressing oneself is beneficial and can be simple if you practice frequently and study hard.
