Spanish is a language that can find its beginnings in the Roman Empire language of Latin. Spanish is considered to be a Romantic language and shares roots with French, Portuguese and Italian. In the 13th century, King Alfonso X of Spain standardized the language.
The Spanish language spread from Spain to the Americas after the New World was discovered in the late 1400's. As the Kingdom of Spain exerted its influence over Central and South America, Spanish missionaries and conquistadors taught the indigenous population their language. Today, twenty-one countries use Spanish as the official language.
There are slight differences between European Spanish and Latin American Spanish, however, those who are fluent in the language can still understand the language. In Those who are fluent in the language are able to understand Spanish from both Europe and Latin America.
There are a variety of ways that those who want to learn Spanish can. A person should look at methods that are best for him. Finding ways to know and understand Spanish culture is vital to speaking the language.
Learning Spanish in the Classroom
People learn in different ways. It may be better for some people to learn Spanish in a classroom setting while others may get better results when they learn Spanish by their own methods.
A classroom setting will allow a student to learn the Spanish language while surrounded by people who are on the same learning level. In a classroom, one can find support and a safe place to practice and learn Spanish. Many classes will require that students participate in a "lab". Students who take a lab will be able to practice their Spanish with a native Spanish speaker. Local community colleges, universities and adult education programs may offer Spanish classes for adults.
Students who choose to learn Spanish in the classroom have the advantage of a teacher's expertise and advice. A teacher can help guide a student to books and other resources that can enhance his Spanish learning experience. Spanish teachers will often know of events and activities that will introduce the students to Spanish culture.
Learning Spanish on Your Own
For those who feel that they will better learn Spanish on their own, there are a wide variety of tools that can help.
It is important that a person that is learning Spanish watch and hear as much Spanish as possible. Everyday, time should be dedicated to watching either novellas (soap operas) or noticias (the news) in Spanish. If possible both can be watched every day.
Spanish Speaking Friends
Anyone who chooses to learn Spanish, must practice speaking the language as much as possible. It is important that students of Spanish make some Spanish speaking friends. The friend should speak to the student as much as possible. Having a Spanish friend can introduce the student to the unique nuances, slang and jokes of the Spanish language.
A Spanish-speaking friend can help the student understand traditions and festivals that are a part of Spanish culture and life. This friend may prove to be an invaluable source of language and culture as the student learns the language.
Spanish Cultural Immersion
Spanish is the third most spoken language in the world. In the United States, it is the second most spoken language. If one has the desire, he can find ways to immerse himself into the Spanish language and culture.
Students of Spanish can start to attend a Spanish speaking congregation. Learning a Latin dance such as flamenco, salsa or tango can also help students learn about the Spanish culture. Finding a Mexican or Cuban cooking class will allow Spanish students to learn about the cuisine of the Spanish culture. Students can take a trip to a Spanish speaking country and stay with a local family. All of these things will help Spanish students to gain a valuable look into the culture and life of Spanish speaker.
Learning Spanish can be a fun, useful activity for students. Knowledge of the language can open the doors to other cultures, jobs and a better future. It is important that the student of the Spanish language enjoys his experience. As one finds out more and more about Spanish language and culture, he will be able to understand more about history and about himself.
Tamara McGee Andersen - Tamara McGee Andersen lives with her husband, Allan,and dog,Coco. She loves traveling, especially in Italy, writing, music and dancing.
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