subject: Discover 8 quick ways to teach yourself Spanish [print this page] Research shows that more and more people learn Spanish. Why? Because it is the second most-spoken language in the world, in addition, it is a beautiful language, easy to learn and it makes travelling to Spanish speaking countries so much easier. Considering all that starting to learn conversational Spanish is a must do activity for your brain. You don't have to take on classes or find a private tutor. There are easier and equally pleasant methods to teach yourself Spanish.
Children's books get children's picture books from the library or bookstore and learn the basics. As a beginner, you will need to start at the most elementary level, and what better way to do this than learn common nouns and verbs accompanied by colorful pictures. Research shows that the best way to retain information is via pictures.
Phrasebooks these little handy-dandy books from Berlitz or Lonely Planet make learning fun. They are divided into specific categories such as Basic Greetings, Money & Numbers, Ordering at Restaurants and Dating, and include phonetic pronunciation keys for every word and phrase.
Listen to music listening to Spanish-language music is a fun way to teach yourself the language if you enjoy the music. Find the lyrics online and read along, and soon you'll be belting out Ricky Martin, Gloria Estefan or Luis Miguel tunes like a native Hispanic!
CDs/tapes why won't you play a conversational Spanish CD in your car's player while you drive to work or go for shopping. While listening you will get familiar with the language and repeat what you want to learn.
Watch movies buy or borrow DVD with a Spanish movie and watch it with the English subtitles to understand the spoken language.
Software using Spanish language software is another good method, as you can follow formulated lesson plans at your own pace in the privacy of your own home. You can go as fast or as slow as you want, and you'll never feel stupid asking questions or comparing yourself with other students.
501 Spanish Verbs as you learn to formulate sentences, it is helpful to have a book of verbs, both regular and irregular, for easy reference. This handy book lists the most common verbs (of which there are apparently 501), fully conjugated.
Guide to Spanish Idioms it's another great book to have, especially as you become more advanced in Spanish. Idiomscommon expressions within each language that cannot be literally translated so must be memorizedallow you to immerse yourself more deeply in the language
These 8 methods of learning Spanish are enjoyable, easy and everyone can apply them. Focus, be determined, eliminate distractions and follow your plan. You won't have to wait long to see the results.