Introduction
Learning a new language is exciting. Learning German will expand your personal experiences by making visits to German-speaking nations more enjoyable. It will also expand your business considerations by opening up new markets to your company. There are many tools that can be used to help you learn German quickly and easily.
Choosing Books and Audio Programs
To learn German in the most efficient manner you are going to want to purchase a language program that you feel comfortable using. There are several audio programs available that will help you learn to speak German with the proper accent. Pimsleur offers a German program that, according to language experts with the U.S. State Department, is one of the best available. Pimsleur encourages active participation while using their program so that you develop conversational skills quickly.
You will want to buy a basic textbook to the German language. These books are available online or in a university bookstore. If you decide to use a beginner’s guide to German, remember that this book should have both grammar and conversational models in it so that you can get a firm foundation in the basics of German grammar.
After you buy the textbook, look for a good phrase book in German. These books are small and designed for those traveling to Germany. A phrase book will have the necessary conversational sentences that are a part of everyday German language in an easy-to-use format.
Next you are going to want a good German-English dictionary. Spend some time and find one that is substantial. You are going to be using it a lot and for a long time, so it needs to be sturdy.
Buy a copy of a German-language magazine or visit a German-language newspaper online. Not only will this give you reading experience in German, but it will also help immerse you in the language and culture of the German people. If you prefer, print off an article written in Germany, preferably a news or current events item.
Additional Tools
You need a small portable tape recorder and blank cassette tapes. You will be able to practice your accent and pronunciation by speaking into the tape recorder and then grading yourself. This will help you to correct pronunciation errors before they become a bad habit.
Purchase a large quantity of index cards. Write the German word or phrase on one side and the English translation on the other. Carry them with you and review vocabulary whenever you have spare time, such as when you are waiting in line at the store.
Immerse Yourself in German Culture
Buy a German cookbook and learn to cook German foods. Learning to cook German meals will help you learn the language by giving you a reward for all of your work.
Rent, buy or download German movies. This is the best way to test your understanding of German, and it’s enjoyable. With most DVD players you can turn off any subtitles and simply watch the movie as a native would. As your language skills progress, so will your understanding of the movies.
Post in German forums and join the conversations in German chat rooms. It might be a good idea to let the regulars there know that you are learning the language so they will be more tolerant of language gaffs.
Travel to Germany and put your new language skills to the test. Visit museums, stores and the opera, and talk to the people of Germany in their own language.