Learning a new language is more challenging for adults than children, but with patience, persistence, determination and proper guidance, it can be done.
Nobody is "too old" to learn new skills. No matter where you are in life, there is always space for something new - a new sport, a new dance move, a new hobby or a new language. Sure, it takes more effort for adults to learn new things, but it is not impossible.
Many people start learning a new language as an adult for career advancement, higher studies abroad, migration or personal relations. Most adult language learners will find challenges in the beginning of their journey, especially as they "warm up" to the new words, expressions and structures, and to the activity of learning something again.
As a language school with adult students, we observed that most of our successful learners followed these practices to progress in their studies and reach their goals.
LEARN FROM A TEACHER AND WITH CLASSMATES
There is no better way to learn a new skill than with the guidance of trained, experienced and professional teachers. Teachers provide you not only with the expertise, but also with inspiration, direction, evaluation and feedback. They will tailor programs, lessons, exercises and activities to ensure fun and effective learning, and also provide instant corrections and thorough answers.
Having classmates also helps greatly! Throughout the learning journey, the class may share experiences, resources and tips & tricks, and draw motivation from each other. This can help you stay on track and focused on your learning goals.
IMMERSE YOURSELF
While the adult brain may not be as "absorbent" as a child's brain, through patience and regular practice, you can master and retain the lessons taken up in class.
We don't advice cramming as much information as you can, because this will only lead to fatigue, frustration and inefficient learning. What works is a constant and deliberate effort to think, read, write and speak in the language you are learning, even for a few minutes every day.
Set aside time to review your lessons, brush up on new words and do your homework. Use apps, listen to songs, read short articles or watch small video clips in the language. More importantly, produce in the language as much as you can. Repeat basic phrases out load, identify objects in the target language, or journal about your experiences, no matter how simple your sentences are.
Avoid simply translating sentences from English to the target language - think in the language you are learning and use as much as you know (no matter how little) in order to communicate. As you progress in your language learning journey, you will be able to compose more complex sentences, express more ideas and use a wider variety of words.
RELAX AND ENJOY THE EXPERIENCE
Two of the biggest hurdles to learning a new language are fear and self-doubt.
Many adult learners are afraid to commit mistakes when communicating the target language. Don't be afraid to speak the language in class or in front of native speakers. As a learner, it is okay to take your time, speak slowly and make mistakes here and there. It is perfectly fine to ask questions and clarify any doubts. No question is silly in a language class.
Initial difficulties and speed bumps should not hinder you from carrying on! Remember, you are learning a new skill, so you will not be good at it in the beginning. Learning is a gradual process, and in time - with motivation, guidance, determination and practice, sprinkled with fun - you will be communicating in the language in the way you have always dreamed of.
Jumpstart your language learning journey with us. Enroll at verbhive.com/courses.
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