Learning Spanish can be a fun challenge. Take risks, relax, and be patient. The goal of studying Spanish is to communicate! Don't wait until you speak it perfect. Just start talking, and you will begin to get better and better. You will make mistakes (We do in English!) but the longer you practice, the faster you will become better.
Here are some easy tips to help you learn Spanish...
1. Use what you already know. You already know lots of Spanish words (taco, chili con queso, piñata) and a variety of Spanish expressions ( "Hasta la vista," "Mi casa es su casa," and "Yo quiero Taco Bell.") Use your knowledge of English to help you figure out new words such as delicioso, atención, and silencio. You will find Spanish is easier if you use what you already know.
2. You don't need to understand everything. As you hear or read Spanish, you will come across words or expressions you do not know. Try to figure out what the meaning might be. Most importantly, don't stop! Keep on listening or reading. You will be surprised how much you can understand without knowing every word. Look for the context clues.
3. Practice, Practice, Practice your Spanish outside the classroom. Teach your family and your friends vocabulary or grammar lessons you have been studying in class. Communicate in Spanish with your friends who are also studying Spanish.
4. Make flashcards or t-notes. One way to study vocabulary is to use flashcards or t-notes. To use flashcards, create a picture of the vocabulary word on an index card. On the back, write the word in Spanish. To study, look at the picture and say the word or look at the picture and write the word. To make t-notes, fold paper length-wise to create two columns. One one side write the Spanish word and directly across in the next column write the English translation. Both of these techniques can be done alone or with a study partner.
5. Have fun! Try watching a Spanish television program or listen to Spanish music. Try out some games and quizzes. Eat at a Mexican restaurant and order your food in Spanish. Talk to people and see if they understand you.
Here are some easy tips to help you learn Spanish...
1. Use what you already know. You already know lots of Spanish words (taco, chili con queso, piñata) and a variety of Spanish expressions ( "Hasta la vista," "Mi casa es su casa," and "Yo quiero Taco Bell.") Use your knowledge of English to help you figure out new words such as delicioso, atención, and silencio. You will find Spanish is easier if you use what you already know.
2. You don't need to understand everything. As you hear or read Spanish, you will come across words or expressions you do not know. Try to figure out what the meaning might be. Most importantly, don't stop! Keep on listening or reading. You will be surprised how much you can understand without knowing every word. Look for the context clues.
3. Practice, Practice, Practice your Spanish outside the classroom. Teach your family and your friends vocabulary or grammar lessons you have been studying in class. Communicate in Spanish with your friends who are also studying Spanish.
4. Make flashcards or t-notes. One way to study vocabulary is to use flashcards or t-notes. To use flashcards, create a picture of the vocabulary word on an index card. On the back, write the word in Spanish. To study, look at the picture and say the word or look at the picture and write the word. To make t-notes, fold paper length-wise to create two columns. One one side write the Spanish word and directly across in the next column write the English translation. Both of these techniques can be done alone or with a study partner.
5. Have fun! Try watching a Spanish television program or listen to Spanish music. Try out some games and quizzes. Eat at a Mexican restaurant and order your food in Spanish. Talk to people and see if they understand you.