Verbal Connections: Learn a new language!

  The first language we learn is the language that our parents speak. For some of you, your first language may be something other than English. What do we consider a language? Language is how a culture communicates among each other. Your native language is not the only way in which to communicate.

  Math and music can be considered “universal” languages in such that they have a universally agreed upon form and pattern that anyone can recognize. Math and music, as a language, is a lifelong learning process. You can never learn everything that there is to know about these two languages. That is what makes them intriguing.

  There is also sign language which uses the whole body to express words, thoughts, and feelings to people who can not hear. Sign language is used in sports, not like formal American Sign Language, but coaches pass on information to players and players to their teammates. This is a great language to learn if you are not sure if you want to learn a foreign language.

  Which brings our focus to foreign languages. I had four years of French in high school. That was 20 years ago. Somehow, even without daily use, I can still remember quite a bit of it. My transfer college requires three semesters of a foreign language. Unfortunately, my high school French classes are far too old to count. The classes for French at my community college did not fit my schedule. However, Spanish is offered online. There are some pros and cons to online learning. These pros and cons can also crop up in a classroom that meets regularly. Here are some helpful tips, which helped me learn French quickly, that can help you learn any language!

§  Practice, practice, practice! To learn a spoken language, you must use everyday. The same principle applies to Math and Music. Mastering a language takes time and practice.

§  Make Flash Cards. Some textbooks offer online flash cards which are great because you can hear the word, repeat, and move onto the next word when you feel that you have mastered how to say it.

§  Look for additional online resources. They are out there and for every language. Here is one for Spanish that I may be using to create my own flash cards and use drills to make the language a bit more permanent in my mind.

§  Find a friend who has taken the language you are learning and have conversations. Part of the practice, practice, practice routine! My mom and I would talk to each other in French when we could to make it easier and more enjoyable.

§  Get your label maker and tag your vocabulary around the house! If you live with your parents, it may be best to get their permission first!

  Learning languages, especially when introduced at a young age, can help break down cultural barriers and bring about awareness of groups within your community.

 

Carpe Diem!