Often students do not know how to study a foreign language. Learning a language is like learning a new sport – you have to practice a little bit everyday. The following is recommended:
- Study every night – whether you have homework or not!
Review notes that we have taken in class, flip through your vocabulary flashcards, practice speaking aloud in your room, and/or work on your spelling skills with a classmate or friend. You need to make an effort to practice your Spanish everyday.
- Do not leave your homework until the last minute (advisory).
You need to put time, effort, and thought into your homework, no matter how long or short the assignment is.
- Check your homework carefully.
Make corrections on it when we review answers in class. Ask questions about homework assignments that were difficult for you.
- Do not throw away any materials when we finish a lesson or a chapter!
Remember that we are building a foundation. A language continually builds upon the knowledge that you have previously learned. You will see a recycling of old information as we continue to add new material and you will be responsible for both. Keep all materials in your Spanish binder!
- Spelling always counts!
You will find that in Spanish the addition or lack of an accent mark might change the meaning of a word (papá=dad; papa=potato). Therefore, you will be held accountable for spelling on all quizzes and tests. Teach yourself to write your new vocabulary words from the start of each lesson!
- Remember, all nouns have a gender!
When you learn new vocabulary, it is not enough to simply learn the English to Spanish translations. You must also memorize the gender (masculine or feminine) of each new noun as you learn its meaning.
- Find a conversation/study partner outside of school.
Find a classmate with whom you can practice speaking Spanish on the telephone, hanging out after school, or even during a homework or study session at night.
- Take a risk, make a mistake, and succeed!
It’s okay to make mistakes! In the end, you will find that if you take the chance in class to participate as much as possible, you will learn from your mistakes and make fewer mistakes as time goes on. Please do not be afraid to share your thoughts and ideas in class. We are all learning together!