Since I will be visiting Mexico in January, I figured it might be about time that I brush up a bit on my Spanish! I had taken classes in middle and high school but “quit” as soon as it was no longer a requirement in order to graduate. I do know some of the basics but that’s about it. Most of the time I can pull out key words if people are talking and try to piece together the rest but it’s about time to try and become a bit more advanced! At the very least so I can understand, even if I’m not able to properly respond.
I started using Dr. Pumsleur’s Rapid Learning Method. There are several units on CDs and you are recommended to only do 1 30 minute unit per day. Trying to stick with this, I am not as far along in the courses as I would have liked as I typically have only been finding myself with extra time on the weekends, but I am trying to carve out some time so I can practice a couple of times a week! All the lessons are audio based – so you hear someone say the word or phrase and then have to repeat it back. Sometimes they will break down the word or phrase so you can repeat it piece by piece in order to get the correct pronunciation figured out. If after the unit is done you feel that you responded correctly 80% of the time or more, you should move on to the next unit. If you found yourself having trouble with a particular unit, you may want to repeat it. (It is ok to repeat units on the same day, just not to do multiple different units in the same day!)
I’ve been using the CDs in my PC in my bedroom (probably the quietest spot where I can do a response without bothering someone else) but you can also put them on your MP3 player or even take the CDs in the car if you have a long commute (Unfortunately mine is not 30 minutes or longer – or else that would be a great time to try and practice!)
Although the few units I have gone through are a bit of a repeat of some of the basic words and phrases I’ve already known, it has been easy to learn and move on and I also like that sometimes pieces learned from earlier units pop up again – helps for some reinforcement! I guess the real test will be if I can communicate effectively with anyone at the resort come January! I’ll have to report back 🙂
About the Product: Pimsleur Spanish Level 1 Language Learning Course
• Initiate & hold face-to-face conversations
• Handle everyday situations – ask for information, directions, & give basic information about yourself
• Participate in casual conversations
• Avoid basic cultural errors & handle travel requirements
• Establish rapport with strangers in foreign countries
• Begin sounding out words with native-like pronunciation About Dr. Pimsleur: Dr. Paul Pimsleur was a legendary linguist at universities around the world. His world-famous, scientifically-proven Pimsleur method has helped millions of people learn new languages quickly & easily. Featured on PBS – Purchased by the FBI.
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