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Useful information for people who want to learn a language. Lot's of advice, blog and material reviews.
Directions: week 2
When we can't speak a language but we still want to communicate, we often use body language. Let's see what are the words which can accompany our signs.
This week we will look at directions.
Is It Necessary to Learn Grammar?
There are different approaches when it comes to learning grammar. Some say that the thorough knowledge of grammar is absolutely necessary when you learn a language. Others claim that it is better to dive into conversation and learn the grammar like children do, by using it. And of course, there are many solutions in between.
Encounters: Week 1
Let's start the first week with an exception. While the following list is not among the most frequent words for the most part, when starting to use a language, it is necessary to know the very basics. Namely, we will look at two things. Greeting people, and asking for the absolute necessities.
Words of the Week
Have you felt that you have been learning a language for a while now but you are still not able to use it efficiently? Before you start blaming your language learning abilities consider if you are taking the right approach to language learning. Very often the problem is that you are not learning things in the right order.
Maybe you can read the news, but you can't ask for a glass of water. It is probably because you are not learning the words you are going to use.
In this series, I will provide you with a list of words every week in order of importance. We will look at the most frequently used words, and most frequent situations. You will find the words which you need most often.
My Pronunciation Is Not Perfect, What Can I Do?
When you start learning a language, one of the first things you will encounter is that the pronunciation of the selected language is most likely different from your mother tongue. Different sounds, different intonation. People often get intimidated by this, and wonder if they will be able to learn a perfect pronunciation.
Before we answer the question if it is possible, let's examine why is it important for you to have a perfect pronunciation.
Fluent in 3 Months
Just recently I have come across an interesting and inspirational blog.
The Irish Benny Lewis, travels to different countries to learn new languages. Among many other things, on his Fluent in 3 Months blog he shares his experience with his readers.
What Does It Mean to Learn a Language?
People are quick to say that they have learned Spanish or they will learn German. But what does this really mean?
The Pimsleur Language Series
Visit the official Pimsleur web site
A set of easy to understand topics is what most of us are looking for in every language learning material. And the Pimsleur Language Series aims to provide just that: a simple and straightforward discussion to help you get a head start in learning your chosen language.
The Pimsleur Language Series is an audio-based language learning system. Each language course is made up of several 30-minute lessons. Basically, you will listen to the recording and construct words and phrases you would hear from it. It also involves repeating from memory to ensure you remember concepts from previous recordings.
Most Useful Words in Five Languages
I have come across a very nice site which lists hundreds of the most useful words in five languages.
Total Physical Response (TPR)
One of the most common goals of language students is to be able to recognize and respond to as much words as possible. Certain individuals claim they have achieved this, with little effort and in such a short length of time. Some have even learned around 500 words in as little as 20 hours worth of studying.
This, according to them, was done through the use of Total Physical Response. In this blog, we take a look at Total Physical Response and how to learn words using it.