How to Learn German
As with learning any language, to learn German requires a certain amount of commitment - in terms of time, patience and a good amount of enthusiasm. Aside from basic lessons, whether online or in a classroom, the old adage, practice makes perfect, is the key ingredient to success.
Obviously, the best and fastest way to learn German would be to spend some time in a German-speaking country, where you have no choice but to speak, listen, eat and breathe German.
Listed below are 7 ways to learn German and if you apply yourself to one or more of these methods you will be speaking, writing and thinking the German language in no time.
1. Take German Lessons
Sign up for a proper class at your local university, an adult education centre or at a language school. If the thought of returning to a classroom setting seems daunting or unsuitable for your schedule, check out the many places online or invest in some tapes or videos. Whether you are a complete beginner or just wanting to brush up on your school German, committing to some form of educational study will start your journey to becoming proficient in the language.
2. Speak German
This is where a class with other students and a teacher has its advantages as you can practice with each other. Other ways to practice speaking the language can be to find a Goethe Institute near you, an organization for the promotion of German language and culture, which can be found in over 100 countries around the world. The Goethe Institute offers lessons of all levels, it also sponsors events, and the golden opportunity to meet, mingle and most importantly, speak German with native speakers (and beginners of course) in a social setting through different interesting activities - from films to wine and cheese parties.
3. Read German
Reading German can be a lot easier for beginners who are still unfamiliar with the confusing quick-flow of words in the spoken language. Reading German newspapers online, the latest copy of German Vogue, German conversations on the German children's book, Le Petit Prince - then listing down the words you don't understand - makes good homework, and will probably give you some personal satisfaction too.
4. Write in German
The Internet has many areas to do this, through forums, message boards, chat rooms and so on. Practice on your own as well (less embarrassing for beginners), or find a penpal to correspond with.
5. Listen to German
Listening to the German language as much as you can is of utmost importance if you want to get your accent right (and not sound like a tourist). Listen to audio language tapes and German music and radio while driving, and stop at the German cable channel and listen awhile. Of course, you could also eavesdrop at one of those cultural nights at the Goethe Institute.
6. Watch German
If you've ever been to Germany or watched a German film, you'll discover that the German language is not merely about the spoken word, but involves a varying amount of gestures, physical movement and facial expressions. A very good way to learn German when watching a German movie on TV is to cover the sub-titles with masking tape.
7. Think German
Try and "think German" as you go about your day, translate the thoughts in your head, count things in German, write your memo list in German, but try not to annoy the non-German speakers in your household too much.
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