Around the world many people chose to learn a language in addition to their native language. In some countries it is common for all children to be brought up with multi lingual skills and if your parents speak a different language to that which is commonly spoken in the country you live in, it is natural that you learn to be proficient in both. Many of us are also taught a language in school, but our enthusiasm and success in the classroom can be limited.
Learning a new language as part of our studies, for business, to open up new opportunities for our future, to travel or because we plan to move to another country, can be a challenge. However, you can be sure of a warmer welcome in any country if you have a go at speaking at least a few words in their language. Try it next time you are on holiday; learn a few pleasant greetings and some commonly used phrases and put them to the test!
Multi-Sensory Learning
Learning a language when you are surrounded by people speaking it can be daunting at first, but it is often the quickest and easiest way to learn. The reason is that we are constantly being reminded of what we have learnt so far, as well as being exposed to new vocabulary, word combinations and pronunciations. We can hear the words, as well as read them on signs, packaging, menus, posters and other documents.
We also build up words in association with tastes, smells, sounds and other sensory experiences. We are fully immersed in the language and it isn’t so easy to default into our native tongue. A month trying to learn a language in another country can progress you further than a year of study in the classroom and the reason is that we are being constantly engaged in multi-sensory learning.
Every one of us experiences life using all of our senses. Our knowledge is formed through experience and our understanding of that experience is shaped by what we hear, smell, taste, touch and see, as well as our emotional connection to the events. Traditional classroom teaching can focus too heavily on verbal learning, particularly written words and this can hinder the progress of many students.
Getting to Grips with English
As English is widely spoken, it is one of the more popular languages to learn. In some respects English may be considered easier than other languages, but it becomes complicated because there are many exceptions to every English grammar rule. Even those who have learnt English as their first language regularly make grammatical mistakes.
In addition to the challenges of English grammar, the language has borrowed words from many other countries, so there is an extensive vocabulary to learn. Add in a wide selection of accents, slang, colloquial phrases and it can be confusing. Then consider the multiple spellings and meanings for words which sound identical and it can feel like a minefield.
If you are learning English and can’t afford the time or cost of travelling to a country where it is commonly spoken, then there are a variety of resources that can build on your classroom learning. CDs, DVDs and online videos can give you experience of hearing the English language being spoken in a range of scenarios.
Vocabulary flash cards and English grammar posters http://englishgrammarmap.co.uk/english-grammar-posters-shop/ can be used to create displays in prominent places, so you are constantly reminded of your learning. Many supermarkets have products from around the world, so you can read the English information and ingredients on packaging. English music, films, television and radio are also valuable resources to aid learning.
With these resources to support your learning, you will soon pick up a good general understanding of the language, so you have the confidence to give it a go when you get the opportunity.