Languages

Children learn languages much more quickly and easily than adults; however, all is not lost for those out of elementary school! With the world essentially shrinking in terms of economy, business locations, and employees spread around the globe, mastering a second or third language is common for those climbing the career ladder. There are many well-known tutorials for language learning, such as Rosetta Stone and others. Other, free, resources exist for language hobbyists, and those who would like extra help from a different perspective.

Because learning is different for children and adults, we have compiled online resources for each. Another crucial part of learning a new language, especially for adults, is possessing a good understanding of their first language. Elementary schools no longer drill grammar skills and parts of speech into students, so it is possible to graduate from high school without the ability to identify the subject or direct object of a sentence. For those who need a little bit of brushing up on basic English grammar, we've provided resources for you, too.

Reviewed Sites

Learning Languages: learninglanguages.net

Learning languages is the best site for children learning another language. It is brightly colored and fun to use. There are subscriber benefits and free resources for the general public. Children will enjoy this site, as will their parents.

Word2Word: www.word2word.com

Word2Word offers free language classes and tutorials online for those who need to pick up basic phrases in another language. The resources linked from this site allow users to choose the language they know and then select a language to learn.

The Language Learning Library: www.languagelearninglibrary.org

While not quite as all-encompassing as Word2Word in the breadth of resources, the language learning library allows travelers and business executives to learn phrases, the alphabet, and learn about local customs and culture is certain to make any business trip easier.

OWL-The Online Writing Lab of Purdue University: owl.english.purdue.edu

OWL is the place to start for those needing a refresher course on English grammar before attempting to tackle another language. Students of Purde have access to tutors, but the general public can download worksheets and tutorials about common grammar questions.

Transitions Abroad: www.transitionsabroad.com

An excellent resource for business travelers who need a thorough tutorial on language and culture. The site also provides information, articles and tutorials.

Tips for Success

  1. Start early - at least as early as you can. Learning languages becomes more difficult the older you get. If possible, begin teaching your children a second language, or enroll them in classes as soon as they begin school.
  2. Have a firm grasp on your own language first. It is easier to learn the parts of speech in French if you understand how the parts of speech work in English.
  3. Set a goal and a reward - especially if you are an adult tackling another language. Learning Italian is fun, but learning Italian for a trip to Italy is more fun!
  4. Ask for help if you need it. If you are teaching yourself the new language, you will reach a point where you have learned all that you can on your own and will need assistance. Check out the local community college and local libraries near you. They may have a language club.
  5. If you can, attend an immersion experience at a college for a week. These 'language camps' are the quickest way to master any new language.