Learning a Second Language: Start with the Basics

When studying a Second Language, students often become frustrated and find it difficult. While every learner learns in his or her own unique way, second language acquisition can be made easier by starting with the basics and continuously building upon that basic knowledge and eventually touching on more complex topics. In a nutshell, if you don't understand the beginning material, go back and make sure you have a firm grasp of the basics before continuing on.

When studying a second language, here are five pieces of advice to keep in mind:

1. When speaking, do not concerned with saying phrases fast. If you need to stop and think between each word or sound it out slowly, that's quite alright! If you rush through the language, you take the risk of not saying words correctly and you may not be understood.

2. As stated at the beginning: repetition, repetition, repetition! If you can't remember a word, say it out loud, write it down several times, and think about the word.

3. Take notes! Keep your notes that your teacher gives in class because these will serve you well when you are at home trying to remember how to say 'Spagetti' in Spanish. A second language is not something you can just 'guess' on a test with.

4. Ask your teacher all of the questions you may have. Do not leave all of your questions until exam day.

5. Use the internet to your advantage. Use it to search up practice questions or worksheets. For example, if you need help on verb conjugation in French, type in "Verb conjugation practice in French" on your search engine and there are sure to be tonnes of resources to use. If you go on your app store on your phone, there a many second language apps that can help you improve your skills in the language of your choosing.

 

Know that mistakes are OKAY and even ENCOURAGED! If you don't ever make a mistake, how can you learn?