Surviving Language Classes

As a student working toward my Bachelor of Arts degree, I have spent a large portion of this semester trying to recall the fragments of Spanish that were lost this summer from high school. While I have always loved learning the language, I have noticed that in order to succeed in the class, I have to put much more effort into studying and completing homework than I do in any of my other classes. With this being a Penn State requirement for students outside the science and B.S. fields, I know I am not alone in this struggle. Whether the goal of this semester is simply to pass with a C or to become fluent, here are some tips for surviving a language class.

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Jessica Piney, who teaches Spanish at Behrend, says, “The best way to get started is to actually use the language by taking what you know and put it in a sentence to communicate your ideas.” Though most of the homework involved with studying foreign languages involves vocabulary and grammar structure (which are still both extremely important components), the formulation of words into sentences is the most effective way to learn the language. While travelling to another country, no one speaks in single word sentences. Being able to actually take thoughts and communicate them into comprehensive words is the main part of learning a language.

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It is not a lie that in order to learn anything, energy has to be spent. French professor Kathryn Wolfe says that learning a language is no exception to this: “Like learning to play an instrument or a sport, learning a new language takes a lot of time and effort.” Because of this, language classes are ones that require attendance. While writing and reading normally takes place outside of class, in my experience, most of the time in class is spent applying the language verbally. However, just showing up to class will not be enough. Wolfe pointed out that, “You cannot learn with distractions, with other voices and preoccupations.” Participation is key to any language. Because it is a communication skill, it is hard to learn alone.

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Besides learning by structure, another great way to apply a language is to make it practical. Homework questions may involve coming up with an unrealistic story and using intense vocabulary, but with the goal to learn, think more simply. Piney advised, “Think, for example, ‘If I’m in Mexico, how do I ask where the bathroom is? If I’m in Spain, what’s the best way to ask where to eat?’” Rather than figuring out how to tell someone about your childhood, learn how to ask questions that will apply to common conversations.

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With many students at Penn State taking foreign language as a requirement rather than an elective, sometimes these classes can be more frustrating and complicated than other classes. However, the best piece of advice is to have fun with it. Even though it is time consuming and sometimes confusing, foreign language teaches us to expand our horizons and learn to talk to others outside of our culture. Even if passing the class is enough, remember it can also be a lifelong journey. Wolfe, with thirty-two years teaching French, said, “One is always learning a language. It’s constantly changing, and you’re constantly learning. You could learn a language until your brain no longer functions, but that’s the beautiful thing about it.”