There are many ways to incorporate foreign language practice into your daily routine. Have fun while increasing your vocabulary.
Books and Magazines
Foreign language books may be available at your
public library. If not, check online sources for books in many languages. For
beginners, choose children's books or books with English text on one side and
another language on the other. The American Bible Society has a selection of Bibles in many languages. If you are a more
advanced student, look for online resources such as a newspaper or e-magazine
from a country where your second language is spoken. If you travel, check
airport stores for print magazines in your chosen language. You may also ask a
friend who travels abroad to bring back a newspaper or magazine for you. A
dictionary will come in handy as you stretch yourself by tackling reading
beyond a textbook or phrase book.
Music and Movies
Play a CD in the car or load some music on your
MP-3 player in a foreign language. Even a DVD you already own can be a foreign
language resource if you are learning Spanish or French; simply go to
"settings" on the DVD menu and select Spanish or French as the spoken
language and/or subtitle language, then enjoy your movie.
Human Interaction
If there are nearby businesses or communities
where you can practice conversational skills in your chosen language with
native speakers, take advantage of the opportunity. Attend a worship service in
American Sign Language, Korean, or Spanish. Frequent restaurants with staff who
will patiently listen as you order in Spanish or Chinese. Visit an elderly
neighbor who is bilingual.
Opportunities to practice your skills in a
foreign language abound when you know where to look.
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