Are you interested in taking up another language? A recent study published by the European Commission revealed that 62% of British people can only speak English, a figure that leaves us lagging behind the rest of the continent, with an average of 56% in the EU speaking at least one foreign language.
There could be any number of reasons why you’ve decided to try your hand at another dialect. You might simply be looking to broaden your horizons and expand your skillset. Or maybe it would benefit your professional life and add an extra dimension to your CV? Alternatively, it could be that you are planning to travel and wish to immerse yourself in the local culture, or you want to communicate with a loved one in their native tongue.
Whatever your reasoning, there are ample benefits to learning a new language, and there are many ways in which you can do so.
Use an app
There are several apps available on both the App Store and Google Play that enable you to practice the basics of vocabulary and grammar. With short, sharp lessons, they can be a great way to make progress in good time, and many offer speech functions that enable you to work on your pronunciation. Many of these apps are free, although some also offer a more comprehensive paid version which requires a monthly subscription.
Take a class
Some people find languages easier to master through face-to-face interaction, which is where classes can prove effective. Once you overcome the potential awkwardness of speaking in a foreign tongue surrounded by strangers, it can be a great way to accelerate your learning. Some courses can prove expensive, which is where you may need to seek financial assistance to cover the cost , and if classes are busy then you may decide more focused tutoring would be beneficial to your progress.
Hire a tutor
One-on-one teaching can feel intense but the results often speak for themselves. When it comes to picking up the basics of a language, mobile apps are great for grasping the fundamentals, but it can be difficult to take your learning to the next level and master the art of conversation. That’s where a personal tutor can help you. By sitting down and entering into a dialogue, you’ll gain a better understanding of the nuances of a conversation and your teacher will be able to correct any mistakes you make along the way.
Think outside the box
There are plenty of other things you can try to supplement your learning. For example, YouTube is full of informative videos, with guides on pronunciation and grammar to help you along. You could also watch programs and films on Netflix or listen to podcasts to improve your ear for the language.
