The words bilingual and multilingual carry a heavy weight. Anyone who can switch their voice patterns or grammar is a shape-shifter. This is so because a lot of doors are open to speakers of a language as much as native speaker. Some studies show it is easy for a particular sect of people to pick up a new language while some show otherwise. Regardless there is no harm in trying.

Just like picking up a new hobby, anybody can learn a new language. For tips on how to learn a new language, kindly pay attention.

First you must figure out ‘why you are interested?’.

Having long term and short-term goals are ideally useful in determining how far and well one would like go. It also determines if it’s just the spoken aspect and reading or listening aspect one wants to be familiar with.

Next is to learn common vocabulary which is an introduction. For anybody to be introduced to a language, he/she must first hear it. Children ideally learnt this way along with body language and eye movement. Spending a significant amount of time with native speakers will help one understand the common vocabulary. Sources of these basic things are movies or radio stations, newspapers or a novel.

The third thing to look out for is ‘development’. How do you plan to learn? The answer is to find a style that works for you. This can be flashcards, in-depth learning, software applications, textbooks and other materials. Whichever one of these options one decides on, it needs to be followed spiritually or else the language will leave you. This is the same theory as learning how to drive a car, practice aids in memory.

Now we have understood that the vocabulary and grammar might be covered but what about the verbal part. You must never forget about voicing all that you have learnt. Conversing with native speakers will help awaken that portion of the brain. One can practice in the mirror or with recordings of your spoken words.

Connecting with a native speaker cannot be further emphasized. Though it might seem intimidating, aspects one can perfect include pronunciation, proverbs and habits. Regardless of how strong the impact of a language is, you can find a native speaker anywhere in the world, be it online or phone call.

Relating to the previous tip, you must understand the culture of the language you are learning. A close contact with the Yoruba culture will inform you that greeting is paramount. Forms of greeting like E kaaro, Eku ise, Eku ewa, Eku oro aje, Eku ewu omo, Eku ojo e.t.c are responses that are heard consistently and never rarely.

In conclusion, learning a language does not just boost your vocabulary, but your personal and professional life. Most importantly, it will be a huge help in cultural understanding and appreciation.

*How do you like to learn? Kindly share in the comment section. I can’t wait to hear from you.

Motunrayo

I am Motunrayo Akinbode by name from Ekiti state, and I work as a Yorùbá Tutor, coach and instructor. I have years of expertise teaching Yorùbá to kids, beginners, intermediate and Advanced students as well. I have a bachelor’s degree in internationals and diplomacy and my master’s degree in history and diplomacy.