How to practise Spanish outside of your lessons (Part 2).
LikeIn the previous part, I was describing how your brain works and the most basic options you have to use your free time to improve your understanding of the Spanish language outside your lessons (this perfectly applies to other languages too). In this part, we’re going to explore other options that might pose a bigger challenge but will definitely give you increased interaction with Spanish, allowing you to improve your skills even faster:
1 - Video games
The first option is the most time-consuming way to learn for all ages. To talk about video games, you must be quite precise. Of course, not all games are equal in terms of language learning potential, so you must opt for games with engaging storylines rather than mindless ones because they will give you an entertaining experience and the knowledge you're searching for.
You can play with or without subtitles and in the language you want. At first, it will feel weird since you never played video games to learn before, but once you find a game with an interesting campaign story, you will almost certainly spend a minimum of 2 hours per "study" session.
2 - Writing in Spanish
Expressing thoughts and emotions in a foreign language on a piece of paper or a note can be empowering, as it provides a sense of detachment from your real thoughts and ideas. It might feel like you have fewer problems opening yourself up, to yourself. Writing in Spanish allows a different level of expression. Some people even tend to find it easier to open their feelings up to others after processing everything in another language, improving and facilitating a deeper connection with foreign friends and loved ones.
3 - Socializing with native speakers over drinks
For those of legal drinking age who enjoy social gatherings, I will seriously recommend having a conversation over a drink with Spanish speakers. We are all humans, we all have feelings, and one of the most dangerous feelings is being ashamed of your mistakes. These are usually the thoughts that might arise when you're faced with the opportunity to speak Spanish outside a classroom setting when you're a beginner (especially if it is the first foreign language you learn).
You take more time to find the words that you know how to use; you suddenly even forget some easy rules. This happens quite commonly and causes you to be ashamed of your own skills because everyone knowing that you lack the skills to communicate with others might make you feel naked. It’s natural. You don’t walk down the streets yelling your knowledge limits to the public, and that is precisely how you might describe the feeling every time you commit a mistake while speaking.
Luckily, when you experience a social gathering with drinks and a nice environment, you’re experiencing the best opportunity to improve your use of Spanish. This is because (due to the effects of alcohol) your brain literally won’t have the capacity to focus on thoughts filled with insecurity, while also forming new friendships, as long as you know the limits of your body.
Improving your language proficiency goes beyond traditional settings. By exploring the previous options, you immerse yourself in the language differently, but efficiently still. Embrace these experiences with determination, and you will find yourself closer to fluency with every small step forward. If you manage to follow up on all the previous tips, you will definitely find yourself speaking more than "Muchos gracias" the next time you encounter a Spanish speaker. If you want to make it faster than 3 months, don't hesitate to reach out to me. Everyone on this platform is here to lend a hand, and you must make sure that the one you receive is the right one 😉