English is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. However, for most people who speak it, it\’s a second, third or even fourth language. This gives them an advantage above those who can speak no other language than English. If you want to be able to communicate better with a wider range of people, it\’s wise to learn another language and Spanish is a good choice. It will be much easier too if you know how to make the best of your Spanish lessons in Houston.
Houston, TX is a very cosmopolitan city, with people from all over the world living and working here. Since Texas used to be part of Mexico, a large part of the population are of Mexican descent. In addition, there are large communities of immigrants who came from other parts of Latin America, including Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras. In fact, more than a third of the city\’s people speak Spanish at home.
With its large Hispanic community, Houston has many places where you can learn how to speak the language. There is something for every budget too. However, try to enroll with a language school that teaches students on a one-on-one basis or in small groups. In this way, you\’ll receive personal attention but you\’ll know that your teacher is qualified for the job.
You\’ll be assigned a class depending on how much of the language you already know. If you don\’t know any Spanish at all, you\’ll start with beginner\’s classes. First you\’ll learn greetings and other basic phrases. Then you\’ll start learning simple vocabulary and the grammar that will form the basis for more advanced classes later on.
It\’s very likely that your teacher will give you written homework assignments. These will require some effort on your part but are very important. They help you practice your reading and writing skills and consolidate what you\’ve learned during the lesson. The teacher can also see which areas you struggle with.
Your classes will also include conversation. You\’ll struggle at first and make lots of mistakes but don\’t lose heart. In fact, go out there and practice by speaking to as many Spanish speakers as you can, from colleagues to shopkeepers. They\’ll be pleased that you\’re trying to learn their language and will help you.
Another good way to get used to the sounds of the language is through music and movies. Listen to Hispanic radio stations or find songs by artists from countries such as Mexico. There are great movies from Mexico, Chile and other countries that you can watch with English subtitles. They\’ll expose you to different accents and help you pick up idiomatic expressions.
Once you\’ve learned the basics, it will be useful to try total immersion into the language. Go on vacation in a Latin American country, for instance. Better yet, spend some time at a volunteer project where you work with people who don\’t speak any English. In this way you\’re forced to practice your new-found skills while doing something good for the world too.
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