Showing posts with label Language. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Language. Show all posts

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Learning The Alphabet And Language Of Spain By Peter Wilson

Peter Wilson

The Spanish alphabet only has three more letters than the English alphabet, ch (che), ll (elle) and n (ene). All three letters simply follow the letter from the English alphabet which starts with the same or similar letter. The Spanish alphabet is as follows: a,b,c,ch,d,e,f,g,h,I,j,k,l,ll,m,n,o,p,q,r,s,t,u,v,w,x,y,z.


However, there is some controversy over the letters “w” and “k” due to their similar language origin. No Spanish words contain the letters “w” and “k” unless added through translation. Also, the letter “rr” is used in some versions of the Spanish alphabet when the “r” is rolled.


A Spanish dictionary may add to the confusion regarding the inclusion or exclusion of certain letters. For example, older dictionaries may list all words containing “ch” after all words beginning with “c” while new versions list the “ch” words in alphabetical order as with the English language. On the contrary, this is opposite when referring to the letter “n.” This change occurred in 1994.


To add more confusion, some letters may not be part of the official alphabet but are created by adding accents to the letters. For example, adding accents to the vowels o, e or u alter their pronunciation and, consequently, their meaning. These accented vowels are not included in the alphabet separately. Though other languages may add these accented vowels separately, when learning the Spanish language you must simply remember the variants of these vowels when accented.


If you speak English, you already know some Spanish words since these languages are both based on the Romance language. Though the spelling may be different, the pronunciation is almost identical with only the accent differing the words. For example, the word “baby” in English is pronounced similar to the Spanish word “bebe.” As you see, though, the spellings are different.


Once you have a good grasp on the Spanish alphabet, you will be ready to begin learning the language for your next trip. The residents of Spain welcome travelers and will be flattered at your attempts to communicate with them in their language. Also take some time to learn about the Spanish culture. This will make your trip even more enjoyable. You will find, though, that in the larger more tourism-based areas, everyone also speaks English. But, do not let that discourage you from improving your Spanish speaking skills. Keep practicing and be prepare for your next trip to Spain!


Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=154748&ca=Education

Monday, November 2, 2009

How To Learn French Language That Fits Your Schedule By IPRWire Staff Writer

IPRWire Staff Writer

For those who wish to learn French language but think they cannot because of their busy schedules, there are actually plenty of options.


In many countries, lots of institutions offer classes. However, not everyone has the opportunity to take these time-extensive courses that are spread over several years for in-depth learning. With the fast and busy pace of these modern times, lots of people need quicker and more convenient methods. Fortunately, there are learning techniques that can be squeezed into a tight schedule and yet still be effective.


To learn French language efficiently, consider your needs and your current schedule, so that you can set realistic goals. As a starter, you can turn to the Internet, which provides you with plenty of programs. Many sites offer free material that are basic and introductory. This is a great way to learn numbers, letters, grammar, verb conjugations, and basic sentences such as greetings. If you are at least at intermediate level, you often have to pay a certain rate to get access to lessons with more substance and features.


Considering your needs helps save you time and energy. For example, if you are more interested in becoming fluent with your speech than in improving your reading and writing skills, you do not need to include books or writing exercises in your studying.


Instead, go for audio-based lessons such as those that are offered through cassettes and CDs. These courses concentrate on proper pronunciation and make you apply your listening skills, which is similar to having an actual conversation with a native speaker.


When the aim is a quick learning of the language, choose methods that have a practical approach to teaching, such as words and phrases used in everyday conversations. That way, you focus on picking up essential words and phrases—only those that are pertinent to daily use, as opposed to memorizing dozens of vocabulary that you are unlikely to use often.


If you do want something in depth and have the time, learn French language from experts and not from amateurs. Do not risk picking up wrong sentence structures and inaccurate translations of words and phrases. It is important, therefore, to find and choose accredited programs and tutors who have the knowledge and the experience to show you the right way. Also, when you feel comfortable enough, you could try a language exchange with a native speaker to improve your pronunciation and vocabulary.


A source where you can learn French language is http://Pimsleur-language.com. The website provides 30-minute lessons on cassette or CD. The lessons last for one month, and include instruction from a teacher and pronunciation practice with a native speaker. Visit http://www.pimsleur-language.com to find out more about the courses they offer.


Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=155271&ca=Education