奇速英语

如何学习一门新语言：超越常规，开启精通之门

Not everyone has access to proper language classes, but that doesn’t mean you have to be stuck with language learning apps. Willpower is key to unlocking the door of mastery; no matter which approach you choose, it’s important to revisit the language you are learning every day, even if it’s just for 15 minutes. That said, here are some creative ways to help you with a new language:

One of the most common advice for language learners is to consume films and shows in the language they are learning. A step down the ladder would be to watch children’s cartoons instead. These cartoons often consist of basic phrases and words that one would learn at an elementary level. Plus, cartoons usually come with clearer and slower pronunciation, which will help learners adjust to understanding without subtitles (字幕).

If watching cartoons is not your cup of tea, fear not, for there is the alternative of listening to podcasts and songs in the language you are trying to master. Not only can you pick up idioms, but you can also explore various topics to expand your vocabulary and grasp small differences within various contexts.

When practising speaking, one runs the risk of making mistakes or embarrassing oneself when attempting to practise in public or with a native speaker, so, instead, start small. Speak to your pet or an object around the house. Tell it about your day or describe how you feel. The goal is to get used to sounding the letters, producing the accent, and getting the words out. As you grow more confident, work up to the wait staff at an authentic French restaurant (or whatever language you may be working on) or a native speaker.

An underrated method to put your writing skills to test is to keep a pen pal. Ideally, find someone who is not only fluent in the language you are learning, but who is also learning a language you are fluent in. Through the exchange of letters, you not only get to practise your writing skills but can also provide feedback to each other.