10 Tips for Learning a Foreign Language

1. Study each day, several times a day.  You’ll learn more when you study frequently and for shorter periods of time than if you study infrequently for longer periods of time. 
2. Learn your vocabulary.  Make your own flash cards.  Highly effective!
3. Practice pro-actively.  Say the words and sentences out loud, write out the sentences, practice your pronunciation.
4. Use your homework as a learning opportunity.   Use the quiet time at home to apply what you learned in class and do it.  Take the time to look up words and refer to your notes. 
5. Form a study group or work with a friend who is also studying the foreign language.  If this is not possible ask someone at home to work with you.  Even if they are not familiar with the language they can go over flash cards or simply listen to you speak!
6. Identify your learning style.  You may be weak in grammar and writing but your pronunciation is good or vice-versa.  Then continue to enhance your strengths and spend more time on your weaknesses.
7. Stay on task in class.    Be Pro-active.  Use every opportunity in class to practice.  If you finish early study your vocabulary and notes or work on an enrichment activity.
8. Increase your language exposure.  If possible, speak to a native speaker.  The internet has many foreign language websites which include vocabulary exercises, grammar practice, authentic magazines, songs, stories, cultural activities, radio, video, etc. 
9. Communicate with me.  If you are having trouble or are bothered about something come see me.  A good time to talk is during lunch.  Tutoring is also available during lunch.   Tutoring is a good time to clear up problem areas and for one on one instruction.

      If you are home e-mail me:  milnesm@flaglerschools.com

1. Set realistic expectations.  Learning a foreign language is a building process.  You won’t speak fluently at first and you may get frustrated along the way.  But you will be amazed how quickly you will learn.  The more you practice the more proficient you will become.  Practice, practice and practice some more!