Learn Spanish

A Few Simple Tips to Learn Spanish

With Spanish being America's second-most spoken language, it makes a lot of sense for Americans to learn Spanish. In professional life, it's increasingly a strong asset, if not a requirement, to be English/Spanish bilingual... and it's also helpful in your personal life to be able to speak in this beautiful language with your neighbors! And there is good news: Spanish is probably one of the easiest languages for an English-speaker to start to learn. It is very phonetic and therefore easy to pronounce. Its vocabulary is very similar to English as well.

If you've decided that you want to learn Spanish, your first question is probably "where do I start?" The answer is closer than you think! Because Spanish is a common language in the U.S., it's easy to begin learning without leaving the country, picking up a textbook or going to a class.

Ask a Spanish-speaking friend to teach you a few phrases and practice with you. Sometimes learning a new skill, especially a language, can make beginners feel a bit awkward and a good way to overcome this is with someone you can be completely comfortable with.

When you start mastering the tips your friend has given you, try taking them to lunch to a Mexican or Latin American restaurant as a thank you. While you're there, order and speak with your friend only in Spanish! Have the mariachi band teach you the words to a simple Mexican folk song. It's a great way to practice what you've learned, while having fun at the same time!

Another way to really immerse yourself in both the Spanish language and the culture is to pick up some Spanish-language magazines at the library, bookstore, newsstand or in some cases even your local grocery store. Seeing the words and reading the language is an important part of learning Spanish.

So, of course, is hearing it, and a fun way to do that is to watch a Spanish-language television station. The daily newscast or commercials are especially helpful, as the topics are likely familiar to you, and it's easier to start guessing and determining quickly what the reporter or actor is saying. Also, try checking out a novella, a Spanish-language soap opera. Be careful though - this is a really fun and addictive way to learn!

These are just some fun initial ideas to begin learning Spanish. If you're serious about becoming fluent in both written and spoken Spanish, taking a class is an excellent way to become more immersed. There are several choices available to learn Spanish in a more formal setting. Just pick the right one for you. Buena suerte!