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10 tips for learning a language
1. Imitate native-speakers
Identify a person who speaks the language that you want to learn, someone you don’t mind resembling and mimic them! Copy their expressions and mannerisms.
2. Follow up your interests
Immerse yourself in the ways of the country, find out what makes them tick. On the internet or in other media read and listen to things that you want to know about (hobbies, sport, food, politics, fashion, technology, etc).
3. Always have a go
If you don't know a word, say it in English. Remember — your cup is half full, not half empty. Even a beginner's hit and miss efforts will break the ice and win respect of colleagues overseas.
4. Practise regularly
Short and sweet is good. Build these moments into your weekly routine.
5. The glamour of grammar
Grammar is much sexier than it first appears. The Scots were quick to realise this, for they used 'grammar' to describe the magical quality of words, and pronounced it a wee bit differently from people south of the border. Before long English had a new word, 'glamour'.
Grammar is one of the most creative resources available to you, showing you the patterns from which you can develop a wide range of expressions. These rules are the short-cut to broadening your use of the language. Build them up gradually, and don't be fazed if they seem complicated. Take one step at a time and practise.
6. Keep a notebook
Particular words and expressions that you want to remember should be listed in a notebook. Not every new word and phrase but those that are particulary important or you find hard to remember.
7. Listen to the rhythm and intonation of phrases
The grammar shows you how to order words and adapt them — turn these abstract rules into sounds.
8. Don't ask too much of yourself when listening
Listening can be a challenge - all language learners face the struggle of working out what's just been said when the speaker has raced on to the next bit. Listen for key points and clues — who’s talking? Are they friends/colleagues?
9. Make the most of what you know
Be positive and make the most of what you can do, never mind what you can't. Meanwhile add a little bit more each week to your repertoire.
10. Confidence
Be confident. Language learning is littered with mistakes, many of them logical and intelligent miscues of idiom: the child who says ‘writed’ instead of ‘wrote’ is invariably a bright one. No doubt it’s better if mistakes are made in the tutorial instead of a business meeting, but your best efforts are always appreciated.
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