How to Learn a Foreign Language

What is it?

In this Pimsleur review we will discuss Pimsleur and it’s benefits.  Pimsleur is a top notch language learning program entirely audio. It is available in several languages including Russian, French, Italian, Spanish, German, and many more. It comes in several levels that build on each other. There are also short conversational programs that are ideal for learning quick for a trip or to test the program.

Most audio language learning programs you come across are simply repeating phrases in one language then the other. There is usually a guide text as well. This is not so with Pimsleur. It uses conversations to teach you and pulls you in and forces you to interact in order to teach you.

Other programs use this “immersion” approach as well because it’s effective. With Pimsleur, you are “a part of what’s happening”.

Who is it best suited for?

This is best suited for the beginning to intermediate serious language learner. It is very comprehensive and will take you far. If you just want to pick up a few phrases before your trip abroad, the quick version would be best suited, but the conversation version is best suited for the serious learner who is willing to put in the time.

How will it help me?

The Pimsleur series uses a system of graduated interval recall where the same words and phrases continually pop up throughout the course. This immersion and repetition will really drill it into your head.

When you take on a language, there are two ways to do things. You can study through several books and courses half-heartedly and pick up some words, or you can drown yourself in the language and force it into your head. It may sound “harsh” to use the word force and maybe undesirable, but it’s what produces results followed by even more motivation.

What is its best feature?

The recall method is definitely its best feature as far as learning. Think about when you study vocabulary for SATs or other standardized tests. When you study 50 words in one day and only look at each once, even if you spend 10 minutes on each word, how many of those words do you think you’ll remember in three weeks? Probably very few, if any, depending on how difficult they are.

Pimsleur’s recall method eliminates the possibility of forgetting anything you learn. The program combines repetition with immersion for very effective results.

Also, this program is very convenient because you don’t have to follow along with a book. Don’t confuse this for a program that you can turn on while you watch t.v. or get ready in the morning because it won’t work nearly as well. You don’t need to hold a book, but you do need to give it your undivided attention.

The convenience it offers will allow you to listen to it in the car if you have a long commute or maybe while you spend some time on the treadmill. You have to experiment with it. If you find you MUST sit at a desk with your hands folded in front of you in order to concentrate, then do it!

How should it be used?

This program can be used by itself or with other aides. You might want to start with a very basic textbook until you understand some of the basics. The premise is that you learn your second language like your first and you don’t need grammar and vocabulary, but that might not be the case for everyone.

Right now you are not a child and you don’t learn like a child. Again, experiment and find what works for you.

How much does it cost?

This is another pricey program. There are a few levels for each program that each cost over $100. Luckily, they offer instant or conversational programs designed for fast simple language learning, but this are great to test out the program. You might spend $20 on this program and find out you love it and move on, but if you hate it, you don’t have to worry about returning it or getting your money back.

Is it worthwhile?

Despite its high price, it is worth the money and the time you put into it. It’s not for everyone, but for those who are willing to put in the time, you will learn a considerable amount of the language. As with anything, learning a language takes time and hard work.

Conclusion

This is an incredible program for any serious language learner whether you are able to plan and design your own course, or you just go with the flow. You will not be disappointed!

Here are some of the regular more expensive programs and some of the cheaper quick programs:

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