Are your language skills holiday-ready?
Summer is on its way!
As our thoughts turn to holiday season, now is a great time to consider whether your language skills are also ready. Check out our tips and ideas for making the most of the summer season to brush up your language skills.
- Already have some language skills? If it has been a while since you last used them, then consider warming them up before you go. You could use a language-learning app to refresh your vocabulary or try finding a podcast for some extra practice.
- Talking of podcasts, why not check out the possibilities for targeted topics such as visiting a café or booking tickets. There are several series of “Coffee Break” language podcasts (Coffee Break French, Coffee Break German etc). If you look at the titles you can usually see what is covered in each one.
- Food – If you have allergies or dietary requirements then it would be a really good idea to work out how to talk about them in your chosen language. Maybe make a small card with the key details on it so that you can show the restaurant staff.
- While you are away, take the opportunity to pick up real-life materials to help with your language-learning. Choose the museum leaflet in French as well as the one in English, take a photo of the German menu, visit a newsagent and buy some authentic reading material. Whatever suits your level and your interests.
- A short, sharp burst of language classes may be just what you need to give you the confidence to enjoy your holiday more – whether that is because you are able to ask for directions (and understand the answers!), or to explain your dietary needs in that chic restaurant you want to visit.
Language Learners will be running summer holiday classes throughout July and August. Drop us a line if you would like details of our French and German summer lessons. teri@language-learners.com