Shahin
What is your approach to learning a new language? I spent approximately an hour earlier learning basic phrases and sentences in Italian by listening and writing them down (along with translations) and whilst I have been practising in my head, I find I cannot recall everything I learned earlier so I must consult my notes every now and then.

So I wonder, how does one retain everything he has learnt so far?

Apr 7, 2019 2:08 AM
Comments · 5
2
study hard, then study some more, and continue to study when you feel tired or discouraged.  learning is a life long endeavor. love your life, and hope you have the good fortune to learn everyday.
April 7, 2019
1
I usually use apps and websites to learn some basic vocabulary. I also listen to podcasts. I don't try to remember everything, but rather use different resources that teach similar things to reinforce it.  Once I have some basic vocabulary, I try to write a sentence or a paragraph, something simple for people to correct. I also use this vocabulary in class. So, If I'm learning about introductions and hobbies, I'll book a class and tell the teacher that is what I want to discuss and practice. This gives me many ways and attempts to remember and practice.
April 7, 2019
1

I’m learning Spanish from scratch. My native language is English. I’ve found a really good tutor, a lady, living in Argentina, a professional linguist in Spanish, who is fluent in my language and has opened my eyes to the way I should approach Spanish. she is guiding me to abandon English and load up my brain with Spanish, sentences that are relevant. It’s a gradual process. No translation into my native lingo ever. I’m listening and looking at pictures, relative to the words, sentences provided. 

Just think about it for a moment. How did you learn your native language in the first place, as a very young person ? Did your parents translate ? Of course not, it was a gradual process wasn’t it, over time. Through simple sentences and pictures etc. Listening and watching. It just makes sense to do it this way but it’s probably not for everyone. The reason.....people want a quick fix, instant gratification. And that’s not realistic . Good luck. I hope my words will give you ideas. 

April 7, 2019
1
In my case, I decided to start listening to Chinese pop music (since my main goal is to learn Chinese) and it's been really interesting, it's not my main way to study of course, I have books, notes and I've read articles about grammar, but it's a different and entertaining approach to the language I'm learning.
April 7, 2019
Thank you all for your responses.

Grazie mille a tutti!

Very useful tips, and I shall endeavour to employ these in my learning.

April 7, 2019