Here in America most high schools require students to take at least one year of foreign language classes. Many students opt for further language study yet statistics show that generally, most of the learning is quickly forgotten once the students graduate. The sad truth is that few of us have reason to use a second language enough to retain it. And learn Russian (or any other language for that matter) is hard work, and persistence is a critical factor.
Initially, learning any new language can be intimidating. Generally speaking, adults find it harder to learn a new language than do young persons. Thinking patterns are deeply entrenched in adults. This is the hardest hurdle to clear for adults learning a new language. This is also why persistence is so critical to learning any new language. Lifelong thinking patterns must be re-routed so to speak to allow alien words to become familiar. To increase the chance of succeeding in the learning of a new language, set a reasonable, achievable goal. Remember, it takes time!
Learning a new language not only takes time, it takes hard work. No wand waving here as it is an absolute necessity to learn the words and grammar of a new language. Memorizing words is the crucial first step towards learning a new language. Initially it is easiest to memorize grammar but slowly you will find that grammar becomes automatic as a result of previously memorized sentences.
There are two kinds of people, those who learn languages easily and those who don’t. If you are in the first category, consider yourself blessed. Those who find learning difficult must dig in, be persistent and work hard to win the battle and master the new language.
People have a variety of motivations for learning a new language. International companies often encourage their employees to learn the languages of the countries the company conducts business with. Many times these employees have little time to learn a language.
Rather than attempting to learn a language on your own, accelerate learning by taking advantage of online courses, private tutoring and local college classes. Most students respond faster in a structured learning environment. For those who need a super accelerated crash course to quickly learn the basics of the Russian language, there are numerous, good courses available online. For serious students of the language, extended courses are preferable. Referring to above, remember that it takes time!
When learning Russian it is helpful to interact with those for whom Russian is a first language. Today we find many native Russians working and living around us. Take advantage of our multi-ethnic society and practice your new Russian language skills with a Russian friend. There is no better method for learning all the nuances of a new language than by interaction with a native speaker.
Be patient and work hard in your language lessons. From the start, accept that it will take time to learn Russian. With time and persistence you will master the Russian language.
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