Though many students may feel they have a mental block or even lack the aptitude for learning foreign languages, most can learn a second language IF they are willing to put in the necessary time. Here are some practical suggestions for studying effectively, overcoming anxiety, and learning the grammar and skills necessary for success in the foreign language classroom.
*STUDY EVERY DAY. A foreign language course is different from any other course you take. Language learning is cumulative; you cannot put it off until the weekend.
*PARTICIPATE IN CLASS WITHOUT FAIL even if you are not well prepared. Class time is your primary opportunity for practice.
*LEARN ENGLISH GRAMMAR. Grammar is the skeleton of a language, its basic structure: you must learn it. Review a simplified English grammar text.
Compare new grammatical structures in your foreign language to their English equivalents.
*PRACTICE FOR TESTS by doing what you will have to do on the test. If the test will require you to write, then study by writing, including spelling and accents. If you will be asked to listen, then practice listening. Ask for practice questions; make up your own test questions. Invent variations on patterns and forms. Over-learn: study beyond the point of recognition to mastery.
**GET HELP IF YOU NEED IT. Talk with your teacher. Form study groups among class members. Use tutoring services. DON'T WAIT!
*LISTENING and SPEAKING are performance skills. You may do well at these if you are naturally gregarious. Students in foreign language classes often have difficulty hearing and speaking because they are anxious about making mistakes. Give yourself permission to be spontaneous and to take risks.
LISTENING TIPS:
--Participate silently in class when others are called on to speak. Focus on the task; don't worry about how you'll do.
--Watch foreign TV and listen to foreign radio.