How can I learn to speak Spanish fluently?
If you want to learn a new language, you have to be very attentive because it is easier if your heart and mind are in it. No matter how easy it is to learn a new language, you should not take it for granted, because then you will end up having a hard time.
When it comes to learning Spanish, there are many ways to learn to speak it. On the one hand, most colleges and universities offer Spanish courses because they think it is really useful, which is true. If you think you are too old to sign up and be classmates with a group of teenagers, then you can always apply for their language programs. As far as I know, schools offer intensive courses in different languages during school holidays, especially during the summer.
Some companies also offer intensive courses. They teach you Spanish while making sure you get a job right after you finish their program. Apart from that, you will see many dictionaries in bookstores that can really help you if you don’t have time to attend a class. There are also some self-help books where you will find complete Spanish sentences ready to use with their English translations at the bottom.
There is the ever so reliable Internet. You can find tons of free tutorials on Google or Yahoo. It is not just about reading and learning to pronounce the words, although it is easy since Spanish is more phonetic. But you can also listen through the Internet. There are webcasts and podcasts available and the best thing is that some sites will allow you to download them. Just write your fingers!
But, it is much easier to learn if you really listen. Don’t stay alone with the books. There are songs, movies and soap operas that you can always listen to and watch too. Pictures would also help. You can remember the Spanish word more easily if you know what it looks like. If you have a lot of money, go, travel and explore! There is no other fun and exciting way to learn a new language than to experience it by interacting with people who actually speak it. Embrace your place and culture and I’m pretty sure you’ll be speaking the Spanish language in no time.
Just don’t pressure yourself. The more you try, the more frustrated you will end up. When one is in a Spanish-speaking country, one cannot avoid trying to copy the accent and the way of speaking of the natives. It’s a big no-no. You’ll only sound funny if you do that. Also, don’t be afraid to make mistakes. You are a beginner, what are you waiting for? Anyway, by making mistakes, you learn. In mistakes, you come to remember the correct form. So, just enjoy the learning process, have as much fun as you can, and good luck!