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ITS Tutorial School offers support in a number of different languages. The following article was written by our French tutor who has over 40 years experience teaching people to speak French and Latin.

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Language Learning Do’s and Don’ts

Adults tend to learn a language by comparing it to their native language. They often want to know why something i said a certain way in the new language, and tend to be frustrated by the usual response “that’s just the way it is.” On the other hand, adults have an important advantage in that they choose to learn a language for some reason (travel, work, interest) and being interested in learning something is very helpful in one’s ability to actually learn it.

The bottom line is that it is not impossible for anyone to learn French or any other language, no matter what their age. I’ve received emails from adults of all ages who are learning languages – including a woman of 85. It’s never too late!

Here are some guidelines that can help you learn a language as an adult.

Be realistic

I once had a student in an adult education class who thought he could learn French along with 6 other languages in one year. He had a terrible time during the first few classes, and then dropped. The moral? He had unreasonable expectations, and when he found out that French was not going to magically flow out of his mouth, he gave up. If he had been realistic, committed himself to one language, and practiced regularly, he could have learned a lot.

Have fun

Make your language learning interesting. Instead of just studying the language with books, try reading, watching TV/movies, listening to music – whatever interests you and keeps you motivated.

Reward yourself

The first time you remember that difficult vocabulary word, treat yourself to a croissant and cafe au fait. When you remember to use the subjunctive correctly, take in a French film. When you’re ready, take a trip to France and put your French to the real test.

Have a goal

If you get discouraged, remember why you want to learn. That goal should help you concentrate and stay inspired.

Track your progress

Keep a journal with dates and exercises to make notes about your progress: Finally Understandpasse compose vs imparfait! Remembered conjugations for venir! Then you can look back over these milestones when you feel like you’re not getting anywhere.

Use the language

Multiple studies have shown that if a person actively tries to use the language they are learning their performance in that language improves. Language study holidays are an excellent way to immerse yourself in that language.

Best of luck in learning a new language.