Whether you know ZERO vocabulary or you are an advanced speaker in your target language, a little preparation can help you get the most out of your immersion program. These are some pointers from AmeriSpan Study Abroad’s experienced staff members about expectations, goals, ways to build your vocabulary, and tips on how to get by if you suddenly forget every word you learned in your new language. For more tips and preparation, download our newest e-report, Pre-Departure Guide.
Set realistic goals: Learning another language isn’t easy (for
most of us); it takes time, practice and many mistakes.Go into a program with
the goal of increasing your communication skills! Never assume that you are
going to perfect the language in so many weeks or months, it’s too much
pressure!
Bolster your vocabulary:
If you are an absolute
beginner, consider studying up with some language software,
or get a phrase book and learn some basics like : “Please”, “Thank you”, “Where
is ..“, “How much…“, etc.Knowing these phrases and some hand gestures will
get you by in a crunch.For intermediate or advanced speakers, we recommend
learning as much vocabulary as possible before you go, including common idioms.Your
language instruction will focus mainly on grammar, conversation and listening.The
more vocabulary you have going into the program, the more ways you will get to
apply the language.All participants should bring a comprehensive dictionary
(not only a pocket dictionary) and may want to consider a guide book that has a
section listing local colloquialisms.
Be able to conjugate
important verbs: Learn to
conjugate, COLD, those really important verbs like to wish/want, to be
able/can, to be and to go.These kinds of verbs conjugated in the present or
past combined with infinitives instantly increase your ability to communicate.If
you are an absolute beginner focus on the “I” and “you” forms of the really
important verbs.
Think the language: Don’t try and translate everything word for
word.It doesn’t work! You will drive your self crazy looking for a word that
may not exist in the target language.Recognize the fact that grammar rules will
be different.Learn the differences along with the similarities and your
understanding of how the language works will increase ten-fold!
When in doubt,
“Literature-ize”: Try
using “larger” words.For example, in Spanish, need doesn’t translate but
necessity turns into “necesidad”, requisite becomes “requisito” and exigency
blossoms into “exigencia.” Since these words sound very similar, you will be
understood.There are examples like these in many languages.
Romance languages are
similar: If you know
another romance language, you have a leg up on learning Spanish or Portuguese.You
already know the concept of masculine and feminine words, accent marks, etc.Many
words ending in Y like liberty will end with: “ad” in Spanish, “e” in French, “ade”
in Portuguese or “à” in Italian.Similarly, words ending in “ion” in English
often sound alike, and mean the same thing in Spanish.
Stay open minded: The best tool for learning a language at any
level is a good attitude.Understanding the culture helps language acquisition.Don’t
be afraid to make mistakes, they are great to learn from and can be funny too!
A sense of humor really helps.
Get ready, get set,
go… In preparation for
your trip we have compiled important advice, useful resources and helpful hints
for you to use as you prepare for your travels. www.amerispan.com/getready.asp
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