There is no language-learning gene, just tools, and tricks for faster learning. Most people believe you are born with a language-learning gene, but that is not the case. Any one can master Spanish with the help of online Spanish grammar lessons.
Someone who can speak multiple languages can access places and reach people that initially could not be reached. Such experiences are the dream of monolingual adults wishing to learn other languages. Outlined are the tips that will enable one to learn and master a foreign language in the shortest time possible.
Learn the right words the right way
It is impossible to know all the words of a language. Learn the most frequent words or words meant for a particular topic you are to talk about to grasp the language easily.
Learn cognates
According to the thesisgeek.com, cognates are “true friends “of words that you can identify from your native language and mean the same thing in a different language. Learning a language from the beginning is almost impossible as many words you already know through cognates. Many languages have words with a common origin and can be spelled slightly differently. Cognates arise as many languages have adopted English words and integrated them into a new language with just a difference in pronunciation or stress.
Speak the target language with a native
Speaking language with the native can be through skyping. You do not have to travel to interact in your language daily. Any little foreign terms and phrases learned are enough to facilitate your first conversation with a native who has spoken the foreign language whole of their life. Through such interactions, the learner can identify areas that need to be improved on. It is impossible to study a new language in isolation.
Save money and use the free learning resources available
Various free courses will allow you to start learning rather than pay a native speaker to learn. Options range from Duolingo, Foreign Service Institutes, BBC Languages, Omniglot Intro to Languages, among others.
Come up with mnemonics to expand your vocabulary
It is frustrating to forget a commonly used word. To aid for better remembrance, come up with mnemonics about the keywords. It will enhance better memorization and remembrance.
Avoid handicapping misconceptions about your learning potential
Research has confirmed that adults are better learners of a language than kids. Adults are more flexible in learning.
Embrace making mistakes
In the first phase of a new language, mistakes are unavoidable and should be embraced. Language is a means of communication between human beings, and it is all about getting used to that particular language as you cannot ever truly “learn” a language. Emphasis should be on communication rather than perfection, and through this, one learns to speak.
Develop SMART goals
SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Keep track of your performance during the learning process. European Common Framework sets language goals and measures the progress of the learner.
Conclusion
To be a master of languages needs constant practice, improvement, and constantly communicating in the native language. Focus on a language at a time until you are well-versed and ready to learn the next language. Intonation/accents should, by this point, sound more native. Keep on improving on your mistake as you grow to perfection.
