subject: How to Learn Spanish Easily [print this page] It's always a great idea to learn a second language. In the U.S., Spanish is nearly as commonplace as English. How many times do you hear messages in English translated into Spanish? That's one reason why it's a good idea to learn Spanish. But a lot of people have difficulty with learning new languages. Here are a few useful ideas and tips that will help you if new languages are a bit difficult.
The immersion way to learn a new language is one time-tested way to become fluent fast. So if you went to a Spanish-speaking country, you'd naturally be inclined to learn that language just to function in everyday life. In some large cities in America, there would be no need to leave home to find such a Spanish-speaking area. There is an advantage to going to another place, though -there, you are literally compelled to speak the new language. Language immersion puts you in a kind of sink or swim mode, which can practically force you to become fluent. Of course, this way of learning a language can also be somewhat stressful. It's up to you whether or not this is the way you'd like to learn.
One trick you can use is to label the objects around you. You can do this both at home and work, if it's practical. You will be constantly viewing the words then, without even having to consciously think about it. If you start to form a good vocabulary in the new language, you'll reduce the risk of making socially awkward errors. If you take the time to learn what words really mean, you won't do what some tourists and other novices of a language do, and make mistakes that can be humiliating. When you start seeing all these labeled items around you, the new vocabulary will start to feel more and more natural to you.
It helps if you follow a plan. There are various methods, but all require a certain regular effort. Like learning most things, the best approach is to follow a step by step method. Don't try to start off reading a complex novel; begin with the alphabet and saying "good morning" and the like. The fastest methods always teach vocabulary first and then grammar. Whether you are using a book, tape or video, follow it as much as possible the way it is presented. This will make your absorbing of the new language much less difficult. If you jump from one lesson to another you might really hinder your learning process!By trying to change the order, you can become confused. Just keep in mind that the more you focus, the faster you'll learn.
You don't need to needlessly stress over learning any new language, such as Spanish. You may feel it's hard when you start, but with a little patience is gets easier. Just keep working at it and trying new tips and tricks to help yourself and before long you'll be fluent!
