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7 Tips for Spanish Immersion
We often hear that the best way to learn a language is immersion. That means going to a country for several weeks where they speak the language you learn, hopefully exclusively. The idea is that doing so can absorb more SO, and your brain will concentrate 24 / 7 on communication, hearing and speaking a different language.
This article focuses on seven things to consider before jumping into an immersive experience. Tips 2 and 3 are specific Latin American and Spanish, but the rest of the tip can be applied to any language they are learning.
1. Note that the grammar and vocabulary as well as possible in advance.
This will make your experience much better. In Peru, I met a man from Canada, he left. He did not know a word of Spanish. He said he was not happy, sorry, went to Peru, and regrets that he did not know any Spanish. You do not have to be comfortable to have fun and meet people very well, but know more the minimum will improve your experience exponentially. Be sure to focus on vocabulary practice. Learn words for "Plum" or "Stick Shift" can not be the best use of your memory.
2. Go to a language school.
While you are in Latin America, why not attend a language immersion school. There is plenty of choice in most countries. In general, all follow a similar schedule of 8 am – noon, Monday through Friday. Some of the poorest countries, like Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala and Ecuador, who specializes in one-on-one classes. It's like having a private tutor and are very affordable. Other countries are somewhat cheaper group but still offers individual sessions. Some countries, like Argentina, Panama, Costa Rica and Mexico, tend to be slightly more expensive.
They offer a variety of excursions and trips to local sites of interest. It could be environmental in nature, as a nature reserve or as a historic trip to some ruins peoples. Some focus more on the adventure and surfing, climbing or other outdoor activities. And some offer volunteer opportunities with local schools or community centers.
The good thing is that it has a certain structure of your visit, you will be able to work with a teacher who is dedicated to improving Spanish. You still have time to make a personal exploration as well.
3. Stay with a local family
Most schools arrange for foster care with local families. It is highly recommended because it allows you to practice Spanish in real situations. These provisions generally include three home cooked meals every day with the family. And they are affordable. Families are selected by the schools and usually have extensive experience of hosting foreigners.
This may not be the best option if you are part of the night. There are usually plenty of available economic ties with the language schools. I recommend at least trying a host family for a week and see how goes. You can always change to a shelter later.
4. Start a conversation.
Do not be afraid! You talked about a number of people who speak English as a second language. His accent does not bother him, not judge them (hopefully) for his speech. It's the same when speaking about Two of his adopted tongue. Most people will be happy to talk to you, and you understand that you are learning.
Many people who have never state in the United States have a poor perception of Americans by the way they are often portrayed in television and movies. Here your chance to be an ambassador real people. Show a different side who are not aware. Help change their perception by speaking their language and respecting their culture and beliefs.
During a trip night bus in Peru (from Trujillo to Huaraz), I spoke with the person sitting next to me for about an hour. It proved to be a police officer. As they have a national police force, can live in another part of the country and the shuttle. He went to work and stay in Huaraz for a few weeks. Then go back home (a journey of 8 hours bus) to be with his family for a few days. The police did not have much money, but his wife is a teacher and together you can not look back, I Do not know how I managed to stretch a long conversation because my Spanish was not much in that time. But at the end of our conversation, he said if I needed anything or if I have problems, would be able to help and he gave me a number. Not bad to have a friend in the police.
5. Exchanges
Let's say you are no long conversations with strangers, or you're still a little shy. Exchanges are a great way to build your confidence and meet new people. Basically, it comes to finding someone interested in practicing English and you spend an hour talking English, then an hour Spanish. It is best to try to incorporate some type of activity in their time together, as an aid to stimulate dialogue. You can find exchange partners in major cities, through a language school (teaching English) or by word of mouth with workers hostel. In some communities, you can even display a sign with your number on a bulletin board. With an Exchange Partner, you can not get the best education, but you will have a lot of new words and expressions of slang, and hope to visit in the area.
6. Having a romantic friendship
Meet someone special is always exciting. Meet that special someone does not speak English, and who speaks only Spanish is very possible that the best we can do for your Spanish immersion. There is something intimate inspires you to live the moment, leave what you have learned to flow effortlessly. And, of course, you will learn special vocabulary to use fans. I could mention here personal stories, but I imagine the details. Being alone is a big plus when traveling abroad and learning a language!
7. Relax!
Largest of all, when you dive into a foreign country with unusual cultural differences, it is important to learn to follow the movement of all this. You can not control most of the situations and make them ideal for their needs. Try to remember that you are a visitor, guest, and you are not here to change or improve something. There will be hassles and challenges of their patience. Lack of bus trips to sleep at night can cause irritability. But if you prepare, you will be much nicer.
Besides some of the words already learned, you'll want to wear earplugs. Earplugs are the most important thing to remember. You can get a power strip of 20 sparkling earrings cheap at your local pharmacy. Surely you'll be glad you brought with you.
Another tip: If you stay in a hotel, can request a room as far as possible from the street or in the center of the hotel with no windows. To do this, so have a good Sleep is important for you.
And one last tip: Smile as much as possible!
About the Author
Scott Shell is the author of Teaching Yourself Spanish and the owner of Advanced Language Learning Systems, LLC. If you would like to learn strategies for improving your Spanish, visit http://www.teachingyourselfspanish.com and sign up for the FREE newsletter.
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