Contrary to conventional thinking, it’s never too late to learn a new language. If you dream of being bilingual, your age does not disqualify you. Make the process more fun—and, by extension, more successful—with these tips:
Find your motivation to learn a new language. The most successful language students are “intrinsically” motivated, sincerely invested in their own learning. So pick a language you are excited to use, whether on a grand vacation or on your couch watching foreign-language soap operas.
Pick your tools (like a language learning app). It might take some trial and error, but you’ll figure out which resources work best for you. Mobile apps such as Duolingo and Babbel gamify your learning. Others such as Rosetta Stone and Pimsleur are less gimmicky but more rigorously researched. And don’t neglect books.
Dive into learning a new language. Immerse yourself in your chosen language as much as you can. Watch movies or listen to songs, even if they are just on in the background. Periodically look around you and see how many things you can name in the language you’re studying.
Get social while learning your new language. Practicing with other people helps solidify what you’ve already learned and makes you more aware of which ideas you’re able to express.
Don’t sweat your language learning mistakes. Sometimes you’ll miss the mark as you unknowingly stumble on an irregular verb or an exception to the rule. But more often you’ll be right. And even when you do falter, those who are fluent should still be able to understand what you mean.
Try less when learning a new language. It seems counterintuitive, but you’re more receptive to picking up on language patterns when you aren’t hyperfocused on learning them. The less you stress, the more you’ll be able to learn.
I – Word Understanding
Intrinsically motivated – motivated by personal reason/want
Don’t sweat – don’t worry / don’t be nervous
Counterintuitive – contrary to common-sense expectation
II – Have Your Say
1, What is/are your motivations for learning English? Is there another language you want to learn?
2, Aside from our online English conversation class, what other tools have you used to learn English?
3, How do you immerse yourself in English? Do you watch English movies, or listen to English songs? How about reading English books?
4, How do you feel about our English conversations? Have you had chances to talk to others in English?
