Learn A Foreign Language: The Language Learning Lessons I Wish I Knew Sooner

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Learning a foreign language can be a rewarding and enriching experience. Here are some effective strategies and resources to help you get started and progress quickly:

Strategies for Learning a Foreign Language

1. Immerse Yourself

Immersion is one of the most effective ways to learn a new language. This can be achieved by:

• Traveling to a country where the language is spoken: Engage with locals, ask for directions, and complete everyday transactions in the language[3].
• Consuming media in the target language: Watch movies, listen to music, and tune into radio stations or podcasts in the language you are learning[3][6].

2. Spaced Repetition Learning

This technique involves reviewing information at increasing intervals to enhance long-term memory retention. Tools like AnkiSRS can be very helpful for this method[1][6].

3. Use the Diglot Weave Method

Incorporate words from the new language into sentences in your native language. Gradually increase the number of foreign words to help your brain adapt without feeling overwhelmed[6].

4. Practice Speaking

• Find a language partner: Practicing with someone else can keep you motivated and help you improve faster[5].
• Talk to yourself: This can help reinforce new vocabulary and build confidence[5].

5. Focus on Relevant Vocabulary

Start with the most common words and phrases that are relevant to your needs. This could be business vocabulary if you are learning for work, or everyday phrases if you are learning for travel[3][5].

6. Have Fun and Stay Motivated

Engage in activities that make learning enjoyable, such as writing songs, creating comic strips, or playing language games[5].

Recommended Resources

Comprehensive Courses

• Rocket Languages: Offers highly personalized courses with excellent audio content for various levels[1].
• Fluent In 3 Months Premium: Focuses on practical speaking skills to help you start conversing quickly[1].

Vocabulary and Grammar

• Babbel: Effective for studying grammar and available in multiple languages[1].
• Memrise: An engaging tool for vocabulary training through memory games[1][4].

Online Courses

Reading and Listening

• LingQ: Provides a vast library of reading materials and audio content to help you learn new words in context[1].
• Forvo: A useful tool for learning pronunciation from native speakers[1].

Connecting with Native Speakers

• italki: Connects you with native speakers and teachers for personalized lessons[1].

Free Resources

• OpenLearn by The Open University: Offers free courses in various languages, including exercises to develop reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills[4].

Apps

• Duolingo, Memrise, and Busuu: These apps offer interactive activities and are particularly good for beginners[4].

By combining these strategies and resources, you can create a comprehensive and enjoyable language learning plan tailored to your needs and goals.

Image by jairojehuel from Pixabay

Citations:
[1] https://www.mezzoguild.com/tools/
[2] https://www.langcen.cam.ac.uk/language-learning-resources.html
[3] https://www.wikihow.com/Learn-a-New-Language-Fast
[4] https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/microsites/library/resources/language-learning-resources
[5] https://www.babbel.com/en/magazine/10-tips-from-an-expert
[6] https://studyinternational.com/news/how-to-learn-a-language-faster/
[7] https://www.mondly.com/blog/learn-a-language-fast-best-tips/
[8] https://www.fluentu.com/blog/learn/fastest-way-to-learn-a-new-language/
[9] https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-language-learning-software
[10] https://www.theguardian.com/education/2014/oct/30/learning-another-language-ten-tips
[11] https://www.techradar.com/best/best-language-learning-apps
[12] https://www.goabroad.com/articles/language-study-abroad/10-best-ways-to-learn-a-new-language
[13] https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/learning-a-second-language/
[14] https://www.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/reviews/best-language-learning-apps
[15] https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-language-learning-apps/
[16] https://campuspress.yale.edu/ledger/the-best-ways-to-learn-a-language-according-to-research/
[17] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_SAcVGFpag&vl=en
[18] https://www.reddit.com/r/languagelearning/comments/7t79pi/whats_the_best_way_to_quickly_learn_a_language/
[19] https://www.thegirlonthemove.com/best-apps-for-learning-a-language/
[20] https://www.topuniversities.com/blog/7-steps-learn-new-language

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