Learning a Foreign Language

Learning a foreign language is hard but it can be very useful in the future and very rewarding. When it comes to Foreign Language, vocabulary becomes important very quickly. There are many effective study techniques to learn a new language. Some suggestions are:
*The use of Flashcards;
*Repetition;

  • Practice;

*Study abroad

Flashcards are a good source for studying because they are inexpensive and unused cards can be beneficial for many other courses.
Even though making flashcards can be time consuming, you are learning vocabulary and their spelling as you are writing them down on the cards. The size of the cards makes them very useful for studying anywhere you want, at your home, library, or even on the boring flight to visit your grandma.

Repetition is also a good technique to learn a new language. Some foreign languages,such as Chinese and Japanese, do not have the same structure as English, so writing down vocabulary multiple times will be helpful in remembering the arrangement of letters and word patterns. The repetitiveness of writing down the same word, putting it into a sentence, and learning how to pronounce it right might seem boring and wasteful, but the more often you see the word; the more likely you are to remember it. Using post-it notes around your dorm/house will help you to see the vocabulary more often and it will encourage you to read them every time you see them. Repeating words will not only make it easier for you to use them during exams but also in a conversation.

If you are serious about learning a foreign language you have to practice using it. Making friends that speak other languages is very helpful not only because you can practice what you already know with them, but also learn new vocabulary outside of class. UNCW offers multicultural clubs and language clubs, joining them will be also beneficial to your study. If you do not have the opportunity to make new friends or to join a club,there are numerous websites and software, such as YouTube and RosetaStone, that can be used for a practice.

Many colleges, including UNCW, offer diverse study abroad programs. Studying abroad through UNCW is relatively inexpensive so many students can experience the life and the culture of other countries. Taking the advantage to study abroad is an excellent way to become fluent in a foreign language. Also by participating in a study abroad experience will help you to improve your vocabulary, writing skills and to learn new ones. From studying abroad you can also gain new friendships, either from a different country or from your school who share the same interest in studying a new language as you.

Just remember learning a new language is challenging, but use your imagination, make it fun, be creative and you will be fluent in no time.

Websites that can be useful for this topic:
http://www.frommers.com/articles/7696.html
http://www.omniglot.com/language/
http://www.pickthebrain.com/blog/learn-foreign-language/