5 methods for learning a foreign language

Have you ever thought that learning a language is nothing impossible?

I have been teaching languages for several years and one of the things I hear saying the most, and often in the same lesson, is “I can’t do it” and “thank you Maria, I had fun today!”

You may think that these two things are contradictory, but I will explain why this is not the case.

When I am faced with a student who is having difficulties, I simply try to make them feel comfortable and ask them to try.

Have you ever tried to change your mindset? I mean, have you ever tried to think that learning a language is nothing impossible?

Instead of starting from the idea that learning a language is difficult, try telling yourself that learning a language is fun and challenging. This concept alone will make you change your approach to studying, it will make you curious.

So, first of all, relax! This is fundamental. Second of all, don’t ask too much of yourself and start with small exercises instead. 

There are five simple exercises you can do to start immersing yourself in the language every day. And you can start right away, as soon as you finish reading this article.

What are they?

1- TV series

When I lived abroad, I practiced this way myself and I must say that it is very effective! My advice is to choose a series with short episodes (20/30 minutes) and watch one per day.

2- Calendar

Take the calendar off the wall (if you have one) and write down the days of the week and the months in the language you want to learn. This way you will be forced to see and practice them every day!

3- Telephone

If, for example, you want to learn Italian, set your phone to this language. I warn you that it can be complicated! But with a dictionary in hand, it’s nothing impossible, and you will practically be forced to learn new words.

4- POST-IT

Write the names of the rooms on post-it notes in the language you want to learn and stick them on the doors of your house. You can do the same with the furniture! 

5- Blackboard

Finally, hang a blackboard in the kitchen and write down new phrases or words each week so that you can read them every day and try to use them! For example, you could write down “good morning”, “good night” or “good appetite” and use them with your partner, flat mates or friends – it will be fun for them too!