Articles and Stories

January 29, 2015

Matthew, a Brit, speaks 9 languages and understands 12. How did he do it?

Of course a small part of it is natural talent and a good ear, but that is not enough, and even without it, anyone can learn a second language.

Here are ten easy tips to learn a new language, also for those who thought they never could!

1. Find a good source of motivation

Traveling to the country where the language is spoken and being able to communicate with locals for example, is a good source. Or following a course in the language. Learning it just to keep you brain active is less specific and would therefore be less effective.

2. Immerse yourself in the language

Matthew recommends the “360°” approach, where you immerse yourself into the language and practice it every day, not matter the method. Try thinking, writing, talking to yourself, listening to media, all in the new language; immerse yourself in its culture and find it codes and peculiarities. The biggest reward is when natives start answering to you in their language and you can carry on a conversation, no matter how simple it is. It will be a great source of motivation to keep going!

3. Find a learning partner

Learn the new language with someone else, it will keep you motivated and wanting to improve to keep up with each other, a little competition is healthy! And you can speak the language to each other, which is the purpose of all language learning.

4. Make your learning useful

Use the language every day, do not keep it just to yourself, write some sentences, talk to some natives, you do not have to go abroad to practice. Find a cultural center or other group speaking that language in your city, or simply a restaurant where you can order in it.

5. Have fun!

While implementing point 4, have fun! Matthew wrote some songs in Greek! Interact on a blog in the foreign language, for example a culinary one, and try that counties’ recipes!

6. Learn like a child

When practicing your new language, do not take yourself too seriously and do not be afraid to make mistakes. Do not feel embarrassed, just seize the opportunity to use it!

7. Get out of your comfort zone

Speak the new language at every opportunity, even try making a joke! At the beginning you will have difficulties, but your comfort zone will grow the more you practice.

8. Listen

Listen to the new language as much as you can and find its specific sounds. Imagine which parts of your mouth and throat you have to use to make them.

9. Watch others speak

In order to work on the new language’s pronunciation, watch somebody speaking it as attentively as you can and try imitating the sounds.

10. And relax!

Tell native conversation partners that you are learning their language, they will be more patient.

Enjoy the view of the world a new language can give you!

Source: http://fr.babbel.com/magazine/10-astuces-d-expert