Many, if not most, have toyed with the idea of learning another language. Many students in America were required to study a second language in school, but I’d argue this is the reason most Americans lose their interest in learning another language. The system of teaching languages in public school is quite poor overall and discourages students from pursuing another language, as they often make little practical progress over years of studying, leading to a belief that language learning is much more unattainable than it actually is. I’m here to tell you that language learning is not as difficult as it was made to seem; it is entirely possible to acquire another language, and it is well worth the time and effort it requires.
Learning another language offers you an entirely new perspective and understanding. In learning a new structure of language, you’re learning new ways of expression, as well as opening your mind to that which your language was limiting you in. To fully explain this, I’d have to get into language theory, which is probably unnecessary, as you can just take my word for it (I’m very trustworthy and know lots of stuff). By taking up a new language you’re actively opening pathways in your brain that could easily go unused. It has the added benefit of forming a strong basis for understanding language and communication in general, including your mother tongue. This includes important but sometimes boring stuff, like grammar and syntax.
I’ll start with the joy that language learning can offer, as many have negative experiences with the practice. Language learning, like most learning, is not linear. There will be points where progress feels slower, but there will also be points where you find yourself proving you’ve learned much more than you had even realized. I’ve found that the first few weeks of language learning are generally very exciting, as your ability in a language jumps tremendously from nothing to knowing a number of phrases. This is very encouraging as you can see clear progress but can also feel discouraging when you hit a wall where progress starts to slow down. It’s important to stay on top of your level and adjust accordingly. Generally, this means ensuring you have different modes of practicing a language where you aren’t consuming content that is too difficult or too easy. One thing that can improve learning is the practice of journaling, or an easier alternative of thinking in your target language throughout the day. At first this will mean constantly looking up words and phrases you don’t know, but you’ll soon find that the words and phrases you use most in your life will be engrained in your mind after only a few days.
The great thing about learning a new language is the joy from the first few weeks of learning is felt every time you have an opportunity to utilize your newfound skill. Any time you find yourself conversing in your target language or simply coming across a familiar phrase or word, you’re growing your understanding and showing your progress to yourself.
Some general tips that I’ve found to be the most useful in learning a new language is thinking about things you enjoy doing and which of those things can be altered to include your target language. An example of this could be watching YouTube videos in your target language. Most likely these will initially be videos geared towards learners of your target language, but if you’re anything like me, you’ll probably get bored of this quickly, and want to research to find creators who speak your target language. The same can be said for watching movies and series. You can watch a series or film you have seen before in your target language (I find it’s more effective to watch without English subtitles). If you are interested in learning to speak the language, as opposed to just comprehending and writing, then it’s important that you find ways to practice speaking; namely find someone who speaks your target language. This can be difficult, so if you’re struggling to find a speaking partner, don’t limit your speaking practice. In the meantime, you can watch videos or films in your target language and repeat what the speaker is saying aloud.
Learning a new language can be daunting, but the joy and excitement that is felt throughout the entire process is well worth the effort. It’s a great way to uncover new literature, films, series and content, as well as connect with people you may not have otherwise communicated with. Learning a language doesn’t have to follow the system that was used in school. It can be entertaining, fun and fulfilling.