How to Learn a Foreign Language

What is it? 

The Mastering Vocabulary series is a series of vocabulary building books that comes in French, Spanish, Italian and German.  Each title has approximately 5,000 to 8,000 vocabulary words that are set up thematically.  This means, that they are all divided into themes such as greetings, travel, nature, colors, etc.   

Who is it best suited for? 

This series is perfect for any level.  There are thousands of words that anyone can go through.  If you only have a basic grammar text and need vocabulary, this is a perfect companion.  If you simply want more vocabulary, this is a perfect supplement to an existing program. 

Also, it is ideal for the intermediate to advanced user because there are highlighted sections with advanced vocabulary.  There are also example sentences to help your comprehension and use of the word as well as a pronunciation guide for each word. 

How will it help me? 

This series is meant to enhance your vocabulary, and that is exactly what it will do.  You can go through it by theme until each one is mastered and then move forward.  This can help you gain a good understanding in one theme so that you are able to use those words in a conversation.   

For example, if you’ve mastered the theme about radio and television, you should be able to carry on a good conversation with someone about television in your target language.  This will ensure that you are able to group words correctly because you aren’t learning words spontaneously.  Still, each vocabulary method has its advantages. 

What is its best feature?                                                       

The best feature of this series is the thematic organization.  If you decide you want to go shopping and you need to learn some French words used when shopping, you don’t have to think about which ones you’ll need and look them up.  All you have to do is study the thematic section about shopping. 

The advanced highlighted words are another exceptional feature.  In the beginning, you can start with the basics and go back later to learn the more advanced words. 

 How should it be used? 

These books can be used however you want.  You can use them as the regular vocabulary you learn alongside a basic grammar book.  You may decide you want to supplement the limited vocabulary that is already in your textbook.   

Another idea is to simply go through it.  Maybe you read one page 5 times each night.  Even if you don’t have all the words down perfectly, as you progress with your language, you will recall them and as you go through the book several times, you will understand them and remember them more easily. 

How much does it cost? 

This is a very affordable series.  It is very valuable and costs much less than it’s worth.  Each book costs between 10 and 13 dollars on Amazon.com and will give you a large and strong enough vocabulary to really take a command in your target language. 

Is it worthwhile?   

Any time spent proactively learning vocabulary is worthwhile.  Especially considering its affordability, this series will definitely help you reach fluency in your language if used correctly. 

Conclusion 

The only problem I have with this series is that it is not available in more languages.  This is a problem with a lot of good titles, but the best we can do is value the ones that are available.  I’ve found these books a huge help in my own language studies.

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