If you can begin to practice your new language with native speakers, you will be able to progress faster – and have fun. The process can also be unnerving or frustrating. So what are the ways to make this practice time fruitful, while keeping your morale up.?
Understand that there are two kinds of natives: good natives and bad ones. Joking aside, only ever work with people who are helpful, patient and benevolent towards you. You must feel inspired and hopeful at the end of the session. Some people want to help, but they are not a good match for us. Do not work with them, as they will sap your confidence. Always try out one short session with a new person, with no expectations of ever organizing another one. Keep your freedom.
If you do find someone who is a good match, organize clearly delineated sessions. A half-hour is a great length of time. If there is a natural flow and you both want to keep going, that’s great, but do not force it.
If you are teaching this person English, keep the two languages separate. Decide ahead of time which language you are practicing. Avoid “language competition”.
Let them talk freely and listen attentively. Prepare some interesting topics ahead of time – traveling, culture, money, dating etc – and let them speak. Let the native know you will just be listening. Perhaps have them give you a quick overview in English before they begin. This will really help your comprehension. Record.
Always record if you can. Let the speakers know ahead of time. Make sure they don’t mind.
Listen to the recordings four or five times (or much more). You will be amazed how much more you pick up each time.
Prepare some short talks and deliver them uninterrupted. Ask for critiques and corrections to be given at the end. Also record those.
These are many possible activities you can engage in to practice with natives without being overwhelmed. Let your imagination create them. Always make sure everyone is comfortable and having fun. Of course, if you are comfortable being spontaneous, let the conversations go where they may.
copyright 2009 Jean-Paul Setlak