Learning a new language is all about speaking and
listening, however, reading also plays a big part in
absorbing the words. Surround yourself by reference material, so you are constantly exposed to the language.

A powerful medium and one which most of us have access to. For both adults and children watching television in the new language can be invaluable in teaching you new phrases.

As you watch you are unlikely to understand much of the language as the native speakers will speak quickly. But slowly you’ll notice that you do get the gist of what’s going on. It doesn’t really matter what you watch, as long as it’s something you are interested in, to maintain your motivation.

The power of advertising is the same the world over, and you’ll find picking up words from television ads will help with your vocabulary. Watching adverts is also good as you get short, sharp bursts of different subjects.

If you can get reception, tune in to a radio station in your chosen language and have it on in the background whilst you are doing other things. Have it on in the car, at home or when you’re working. You will find you subconsciously absorb the language as you tune in and out of what is happening.

An invaluable source of information, not just for vocabulary, but to keep you up to date with current affairs, which is all part of the language learning process. If you don’t have access to them many can be read on-line. It’s also possible to order a subscription to specific media, either through their own websites or through a good publisher.

Select a book at your language level and you’ll gain an immense feeling of satisfaction once you have read and understood it. You may need to do this in conjunction with a dictionary, but as a language learner you should never be far from a bi-lingual dictionary.

If you’re serious about learning the language try and buy the best dictionary you can afford. You might find you need a larger one for where you study (as some can be very big to carry) and a smaller one to take to your classes.

It may seem boring too, but a good grammar and verb book will be life long friend, helping you out with tenses and meanings.

Something to consider if you are learning your new language at an advanced level is a mono-lingual dictionary. Mainly used by translators, these ‘native’ dictionaries can really set you a challenge in thinking around your language, and give you a real sense of achievement when you use them.

Not to be recommended for the serious language learner. This programmes can translate the basics, but can be very misleading and are certainly not used by professionals. Ok for single words, but steer clear of them if you don’t want to make errors with your sentences.