German elementary education. How to learn German on your own: step by step instructions

Germany is a beautiful country with good food and delicious beer, a developed economy and beautiful scenery, excellent curricula for students, so more people want to learn German from scratch.

This article is intended for persons over 18 years of age.

Are you over 18 already?

Features of learning German

A lot of people want to know how it is possible and whether it is possible to learn a foreign language (in our particular case, German) quickly, simply and painlessly. Yes, it is possible and quite feasible, but in a pair, with a teacher or in special linguistic courses, sometimes it turns out easier and better. And here the point is not that someone will explain the basics of grammar to you and put necessary information in the head, because in the end you can come to everything yourself. The fact is that the courses increase your desire to learn. The main problem that all beginners face is the lack of strong motivation, interest and fortitude, self-control. It is these qualities that allow, after long days, weeks and months, to start speaking a foreign dialect with ease and beauty.

If you do not have a clearly set goal and desire to achieve it, then it is very difficult to force yourself to sit regularly for several hours a day over textbooks memorizing words, sentences, articles, irregular verbs and grammar.

b"> How to start learning German from scratch on your own?

The beginning is always the most difficult in the learning process, the end result depends on how everything goes. There are many different methods and ways to learn a foreign syllable, but you need to start, of course, from the very basics - the alphabet, letters and their sound.

You can buy manuals that are usually bought for children, self-help books for beginners from scratch, or download free introductory video lessons from sites that help you learn German on your own. Children's books and textbooks are a very good option if you do not know any foreign dialects, as they have clear plan and structure, explain the grammar and rules in an accessible and simple way, taking into account the psychology and knowledge of the beginner.

c"> Ways to learn German at home

In order to achieve the desired results, you need to make some efforts, show self-discipline and perseverance, because you will need to spend several hours behind textbooks. But besides the standard cramming and memorization grammar rules, other training options can be used.

Increasingly, children in schools or language courses are using the game method, which makes it easy to remember the necessary information, learn complex grammar and expand vocabulary. The easiest way is to place in the house cards with the names of objects in the language being studied, a table irregular verbs or articles that are so hard to remember. Stumbling eyes on this or that record, you will remember its meaning. In the future, the task can be complicated by adding different characteristics or descriptions to the words.

It is not for nothing that children at school are recommended to read a lot in order to learn to speak well. Even if you still do not understand everything well, still look through books and magazines in the right dialect, look at pictures and look for words in the dictionary, write them out in a notebook, enriching your speech.

If you have already gone through several lessons on your own, learned the basic phrases for greeting and want to continue in the same spirit, then you should register on special free learning sites. You can have conversations with a fellow student, chat with an ethnic German, or find a German-speaking friend studying Slavic languages with whom you can exchange valuable advice and help in learning.

d"> Difficulties in learning German that should not scare

It is impossible to answer the questions whether it is difficult to learn German, how much it can be done, how quickly to start reading and writing. It all depends, as mentioned above, on your determination and perseverance, desire and patience. But even the most diligent students face difficulties, here are some of them:

many dialects that are not always understandable for those who learn the language from scratch;
fast speech, during which words are distorted and letters disappear;
complex grammar with many irregular verbs, articles and other things;
incomprehensible sentence structure and slang.

But they should not frighten, because everything can be overcome, learned and understood, found in smart books, to hear over a glass of beer and a plate of delicious sausages, because the people of Germany are very responsive and will always help those who are trying to master their native language.

With some effort and habit, you can learn German on your own in a relatively short period of time. the main problem- motivation. If you find something to really motivate yourself, you will know German.

How to learn German on your own: step by step instructions

Do you want to learn a language without spending money?
Are you sleepy just at the thought of having to attend classes and do your homework?
You can not decide where to start and what resources to use?

Our answer is to learn German on your own! And how exactly - you will find out by reading this article. .

Regardless of the purpose for which you study the language - does it attract you german culture or the language itself, whether you are going to Germany to study, work or travel, you have the unique opportunity to take responsibility for your own progress in learning German.

By learning a language on your own, you yourself set the “rules of the game”: what to learn, in what sequence, how many hours a day, how many times a week.

Perhaps you already have a question: is it possible to learn a language on your own without spending a lot of money?

Our answer: yes you can!

Become your own personal tutor and teach yourself how to speak German! On the Internet you can find many free sources:

German films, series, radio, books and newspapers
web pages dedicated to learning German
audio courses
free apps

The internet is full of these treasures just waiting to be found! As you probably noticed, you can create an atmosphere of immersion in the German language right at home without spending a penny.

If your first foreign language is English, then it will be a little easier for you to start learning German on your own. As you know, English and German belong to the same language group- Germanic. However, in addition to similarities, these languages have many differences. For example, German grammar is significantly different from English, but has common features from Russian.

Can't wait to get started? Here are 8 steps to get you started an amusing trip into German.

Master the alphabet

You should start mastering the German language from the very beginning, namely from learning the alphabet. If you are already familiar with English alphabet, then we can safely say that half the work is already done. However, take the time to practice your pronunciation.

Note! special attention require a combination of vowels and consonants, as well as letters with an umlaut, since depending on whether two dots are above a, u, or o, the grammatical form and often the meaning of the word.

For example, Apfel is an apple, and Äpfel is apples, schon is narrower, and schön is beautiful.

Learn simple words

From the very beginning, learn a few simple words and expressions in German, for example, learn greetings, pronouns, as well as such elementary words as “yes”, “no”, “thank you”, “please”, “excuse me”, etc.

Enrich your vocabulary

Learn new nouns, verbs and adjectives every day. It is important to get used to memorizing from the very beginning German nouns along with the article.

Set small and easy tasks for yourself, such as learning the names of family members, days of the week, months. Change the language on your social media pages and on your phone to German, and I guarantee that you will instantly remember words like "Freunde", "Nachrichten" or "Einstellungen".

Master the word order of a German sentence

Next important step is an understanding of the logic of construction German proposal. Most likely, your interlocutor will be able to understand what you want to say, even if the word order is wrong.

Note! However, you should not be guided by the principle of "just to say" and hope that you will be understood. Try to be strict with yourself and not give yourself concessions so that your interlocutor does not fall into a linguistic stupor.

Learn short German sentences

Having mastered the word order, you can safely move on to memorizing small phrases in German, which are often used in everyday speech. For example, "What's your name?", "How are you?", "What time is it?" etc.

One of the nicest and effective ways learning a language is like watching movies and series. Watch films with Russian voice acting and German subtitles, and after a while you will notice the result.

You can also watch your favorite, well-watched and memorized films or series in German voice acting, which will surely give you a lot of impressions and increase your vocabulary. While watching movies, boldly “parrot” and repeat individual words or whole sentences after the characters, which will favorably affect your pronunciation.

Read the news in German

Try it, what if you like it? Unfamiliar words can always be looked up in the dictionary!

Chat with Germans and people learning German and interested in German culture

Even if you are determined to learn German on your own, a little help can still come in handy! Register on forums and portals dedicated to learning German, join non-German groups on VKontakte– and exchange experiences with other "comrades in arms".

Listen to German podcasts

This is a very convenient method of learning German, which you can always resort to, for example, if you are going somewhere, driving or just standing in line.

Chat with native speakers

Try to get to know Germans or people who speak German. Social networks are the ideal place for such acquaintances. You can also register on a German dating site. This is good way train colloquial. Who knows, you might even meet your destiny there!

Read books, watch films and programs not only in but also about the German language

Start by reading Mark Twain's On the Terrifying Difficulty of the German Language, in which he humorously describes his torturous attempts to learn the language.

Immerse yourself in German

Many educators believe that immersion is one of the most quick ways learn a foreign language. Think about the possibility of going or even moving to Germany for a while, because there, in order to survive, you simply have no choice but to start speaking and understanding German.

For example, you can take advantage of the unique opportunity to travel to a German-speaking country as an Au Pair or participate in the Freiwilliges Ökologisches Jahr program (voluntary environmental year).

Note! There is a proverb in German: "Aller Anfang ist schwer". Yes, it's hard to get started. But if you turn learning German into your hobby and devote a little time to it every day, then over time you will begin to notice that speech that was previously incomprehensible and perceived more as a stream of sounds takes on meaning, and the German language will reveal its treasures to you.

30% of people "fail" in language courses. They give up because there is no time, it is difficult, there is no more strength, or because interest has disappeared. Why? Everything is simple. Outdated teaching methods that work against our brain. So how do you learn German quickly and permanently?

At systems approach you can learn German to an advanced level (that is, fluent communication on any topic, level C1) in 12-17 months, without living in the country of the language. Systemic learning includes:

1. Set a language learning goal and go for it
2. Find a teacher or courses that fit the purpose. None self-study, otherwise you can go to the goal for years
3. Presence of success factors

Now separately about each item.

1. Set a goal for learning a language and go for it

First you need to determine what level you have now and what level you want to reach. If the level is beginner, and for your purposes you need to master the average, then the study time will be significantly reduced to several months. The same if you have middle level and you want to reach advanced.

Second important point- Set yourself a time frame. By what time do I want to reach the desired level? What specific date and month? The time limit is a great motivator not to put things off until later, but to do it despite the rush at work, illness, holidays and lack of mood. The goal should have a specific date to which you will strive.

2. Find a teacher or courses

Classes in a language school and with private tutors can be divided into three types:

First type: The pace of work is slow

To obtain First level You need to walk for at least six months. Then another two years to master the average level. Courses are usually inexpensive, but to master the intermediate level, you need to take 4-6 courses. In sum, it turns out to be already expensive, and a lot of time has been spent. This is the most common type language schools not only in Russia, but also in Germany.

Second type: The pace of classes is medium or fast

You will have to adjust to this pace. If a couple of weeks were missed due to a cold, you will have to make up a lot. Most often on their own. No one will return the money for absence from the lessons (at least without a medical certificate). Is absent individual approach. I also met tutors who worked in their own rhythm, going to next topic even when the student has not yet mastered the previous one. Especially often such a rush occurs when the deadline for passing a test or exam is approaching. Although, in my opinion, it does not justify the decision of the tutor to move on.

Third type: The pace of classes is determined individually

Here the student pays not for the time of classes, but for the result. For comparison: In the first type of courses, we are told - " Pay for six months and go to classes ". Theoretically, in six months you can master half initial course A1. At least that's what it says in the description. But if you do not master, the course will have to be repeated.

In the third type of classes, it is proposed to pay for the result - " Do you want an intermediate level? You are welcome. Pay once and keep practicing until you learn everything. As much time as needed.» Someone manages in three months, and someone needs eight, because they work at two jobs and because the session must be passed. But the price for both the first and second cases one, and the rhythm of classes is chosen individually. There are very few schools like this, but they do exist.

How do you know which type of school is right for you? It all depends on life situation, ability and willingness to learn the language. It is necessary to determine how much time there is per day and per week to study the language. Not only on courses, but also independently at home. You also need to evaluate at what pace it would be most comfortable to practice. You can also visit trial classes in several courses and choose the most suitable ones. If there are no language schools in your city or they are far to reach, you can use the services of online schools. Online courses today are not inferior in quality. And you don't have to go anywhere.

3. Presence of success factors

There are a number of factors that will help determine if you can learn a language quickly and permanently in the place or with the teacher you are currently studying with. These factors play a key role.

Variety of teaching materials

On the initial stage you can study one basic and one grammatical. But with growth language level materials should be expanded - texts, videos, games, discussion exercises, projects, etc. The materials must be up-to-date, no copies from the textbooks of the last century.

Selective study of grammar

I dismantled all German grammar, but in truth I use only 30-40% of the structures from grammar books. In other matters, like most Germans. Nobody uses all the rules described in Helbig und Buscha grammar. It is important to train only 30-40%, and exercise the rest only for understanding, if you suddenly meet somewhere. To quickly learn German, you do not need to overload yourself with unnecessary information, otherwise the study will drag on for a long time, and the effect will be small.

Selective vocabulary

Here the same logic - we do not learn everything in a row, but concentrate on common words and expressions. First of all, we train the words that we use in hot topics(everyday affairs and a couple of specialized topics related to work and profession). On these topics, we, first of all, train to express our thoughts.

Learning spoken language

No expressions from the classics of German literature, no obsolete words. Read German literature good, but learning German on it - not relevant.

The Germans raise their eyebrows when they hear from a foreigner some literary turn that they themselves have never heard before, and are even more surprised at the question - “What, don’t you say so? And Thomas Mann wrote that!”

It is clear that there were no other sources of original German texts before, but now there is a lot of material, both textual and audio and video.

The control

Not only at the end of the course. And not only written. And not only official. The teacher must monitor and record any progress of the student in order to respond in time if something was underestimated.

Feel constant personal progress

For example, you study with a tutor for a month or go to courses. What can you do in a month? Just say hello, introduce yourself and say goodbye? Or not only that, but also tell about yourself, your family and work, make an order at a restaurant, ask a passer-by for directions and talk about the weather with a German neighbor on the plane? Do you feel the difference?

Motivation

Having set a goal for learning a language, we are already interested in studying regularly and completing assignments on time. But sometimes this is not enough. Therefore, the teacher must also not only transfer knowledge, but also motivate different ways- from interesting story about Germany before the time limit for surrender homework. However, do not forget to motivate yourself personally. For example, you can wear a bracelet or key chain with german flag as a reminder to practice every day. Or being able to write your first greeting card in German after completing this topic. You need to think about what can motivate and push you to study the language regularly.

Individual approach

To learn German or any other language, it is necessary to take into account an individual approach. There are language classes with a group of 15 people or more. Here it is hardly worth hoping that the teacher will regularly monitor the personal progress of each student. Most often, if the majority of the group understood the material, the teacher moves on to the next topic. What if you're in the minority? You still don't understand the topic and want some more explanations and exercises? What if you weren't in previous classes? And if you remember visual images better, and the teacher gives only the text? Some people find it easier to learn words separately, while others remember them in context. How to tailor your classes?

Ideally, the teacher leads the class based on the goals of the students, involving everyone, and goes through the topic until all participants have mastered it.

I wish you to learn German quickly, quickly and well, well, so that you no longer sit over textbooks, but enjoy the result!

All success!

10 tips to learn German quickly and permanently was last modified: November 2nd, 2018 by Ekaterina

Have you decided to start studying German, but at the same time, for some reason, do not want to visit a tutor? It's not a problem at all! You can easily take it on yourself, and achieve really high results.

How to start learning German

Mastering any business begins with interest in it. It doesn't matter what underlies your interest in the German language. Perhaps you want to improve your professional skills, dream of going on a trip to Germany, or just found yourself a new hobby - these are all good reasons to start studying. If you have a real desire to study German, learn new things, comprehend a different level, then you will succeed! Of course, there are some conditions, and one of them is the regularity of classes. Try to set aside at least an hour every day to master the material. So that new learned words gradually pass from passive reserve in active, the language must be practiced regularly.

How difficult is it to learn German?

This language belongs to the Germanic group Indo-European languages. Note that in the same group there are Swedish, English and others. In general, in the world, more than 170 million people speak German. Approximately 95 million people speak this language as their first language. There is an assumption that German is difficult to learn, but, in fact, this is just a myth. Only grammar is difficult in this matter: tenses, regular and irregular verbs that conjugate differently, definite and indefinite article etc. And yet, in order to communicate with a German, you do not need to know all the nuances of grammar. Surely, not all native speakers of the Russian language know every rule of its spelling and grammar. As a rule, those who want to learn German are faced with the notorious frame construction, in which negation, a verb, or the second part compound predicate appears at the end of the sentence, and can change the whole meaning of the phrase. In fact, such a construction is often used in Russian, but we are not always aware of this. In general, German and Russian have a lot of similarities - both in the logic of constructing phrases and in vocabulary. There are many phraseological expressions, which exist almost identically in both of these languages. That is why many phrases can be translated almost literally, and not be afraid that you will remain misunderstood. By the way, the same English is much more difficult to learn! Often, translation from it turns into serious torments of creativity, because the syntactic construction of phrases in English and Russian does not coincide at all. Meanwhile, you can trace the structure of the sentence quite clearly, because german words, unlike, for example, English, are less polysemic. You can also say that German is studied much easier than Spanish or Chinese - it's not only about pronunciation, but also about the rules of reading.

Learn German from scratch on your own

Master the alphabet and the basics of clockwork Before you take up the study of the German language, you should familiarize yourself with its alphabet - it included 26 letters and is based on the Greco-Roman alphabet. Also, do not forget that there is an umlaut - specific german letters, which are not in the standard Latin alphabet: ä, ö, ü, ß. It is also important to note that tense forms in German make it possible to determine at what time any of the mentioned actions takes place. There are six tense forms of the verb: Präteritum, Pefekt, Plusquamperfekt, Präsens, Futurum I, Futurum II. Special training courses If you are not sure that you will master a foreign language on your own, then, of course, you should sign up for special courses. If you work during the day or are busy with some other business, then it is quite possible to find groups in which classes are held in the evenings. Also possible individual training with a tutor, which will take place at a convenient time for you.

Download free audio or video tutorials It is possible that you do not have the desire or opportunity to learn the language in special groups or personally with a teacher. In this case, you should pay attention to various video tutorials, which are easy to find in abundance on the Web. Also, do not ignore the audio lessons, which can be even more convenient, because they can be listened to through headphones, for example, on the road or doing some household chores. Communicate online on the Internet with the Germans You will begin to pay more attention to all the subtleties of the German language if you start chatting online with their native speakers. There are various forums, social networks, dating sites that will help you find many interlocutors from Germany. Watch films in a foreign language and translate words When you start learning German, it will be very important for you to learn to identify by ear. foreign words, translate them on the go. Various films shot in Germany can help you with this. Hearing unfamiliar word, press pause and try to find its value. Over time, such words will come across less and less! Of course, the perception of phrases and correct pronunciation they are not always on the same level, but if you begin to at least fully understand the German language, then we can say that you have very little left before you fully master it.

Online learning sites

There are many websites on the web that can help you learn. Here are some examples of such resources

Deutsch info.

It's about

Study German.

wonderful selection

Deutscher Club.

Deutsche Welt.

educational materials

StartDeutsch.

Lingvister.

How much does it really take to learn a foreign language from scratch, doing an hour a day

Of course, each student has his own pace of obtaining information - for someone it is given faster, and someone can spend a little more of their time on it. In general, this can take either a few months or two years - it depends on how intensive the chosen course is and how many hours a day you are willing to spend on it. Now, in accordance with international standards, training includes six levels - A1-A2, B1-B2, C1-C2. It is believed that the assimilation of each level requires 96 academic hours. This is an average number. You can go through the levels faster, but this means adjusting the training program. The first lessons will lay the foundation for your future knowledge - the basics of grammar.

Learning the German language by reading texts and studying poetry

If you strive to learn a foreign language, then poems and texts will help you with this. Study quatrains and more complex rhyming works in German, read stories, and so on. Starting to study a foreign language, many beginners often ask themselves: “How many new words do you need to know in order to understand what a native speaker is talking about and be able to explain himself to him. It all depends on what you are guided by when taking up the German language. If you need it in order to simply explain your wishes during a tour of Germany, then 500-600 correctly chosen words will be enough for you. If your goals are more ambitious, then the work will be more painstaking. Be that as it may, you should not chase too much vocabulary for the first time - you simply will not be able to master such a layer of information. In this case, it is better to learn less, but it is better that when you hear a word, you immediately understand what it is about, and do not think about where you could hear it. The same should happen in the use of these words, their use in your own speech. Starting to read texts in German, write out unknown words with the translation. Subsequently, these words must be learned and learned to apply in sentences. Undoubtedly, this way you will significantly replenish your vocabulary. By following these elementary tips, you will achieve a significant breakthrough in the task at hand! Regularity of classes Start dedicating at least one hour a day to exercise. The importance of regular exercise cannot be underestimated. Discipline is the determining factor that is able to resist any excuses on the way to achieving the goal. Of course, you must understand that it is very difficult to achieve success by looking at the textbook only once every few days. A day later, the brain begins to gradually forget what and in what order was studied in last time, therefore, with irregular classes, you will spend a lot of time on the usual repetition of an already completed stage. From simple to complex No need to immediately try to memorize as much as possible more words, or try to thoroughly understand all the prepositions and tenses. Assimilation of the material should occur gradually, in small steps. Increase the load little by little, gradually taking on more difficult levels. Dictionary work Having started learning the German language, you will conclude for yourself that you cannot do without a dictionary in this matter. There are many services on the Web that make it possible to translate any word from one language to another for free, and this chance should not be neglected. When you're on over high stages learning, it is desirable to use more monolingual dictionaries, and not try to translate every word into native speech and stop there - try to explain unfamiliar words using synonyms, phrases, antonyms. Thus, the words will be better fixed in memory. Word combination Try not to memorize the words individually. Some do it in random order, others in alphabetical order, but a completely different technique is most effective. Remember words in context - the way they are used in speech. Try to apply each new word in several sentences at once - this significantly increases the likelihood that you will remember it perfectly. Don't Forget Grammar Even if it seems boring and difficult to you, you probably realize that without studying and understanding grammar, it is impossible to compose fluently. correct sentences in any language! Of course, you can try to memorize phrases, but this does not negate the fact that grammar is necessary to understand what you plan to say. Do not be afraid of grammatical errors in the sentence, because even the indigenous people express themselves with errors. Sooner or later, there comes a stage when, without grammatical knowledge, subsequent advancement in learning will be simply impossible. Often grammatical inaccuracies interfere with understanding. If you don't have the skills correct use verbs and articles in the required form, this will be a serious obstacle in communication and your interlocutors will simply get tired of making assumptions about what exactly you mean. Combination of techniques Be attentive to various speech aspects: it is important not only to listen to the text, but also to remember its content, and also not only to read, but also to speak correctly. There is no single universal method which will be perfect for any student. It's about very individual process- learning speed depends on the age of the student, communication skills in their language, diligence and other things. Having decided on your own technique, which is the most suitable for you, you will achieve success. Perhaps you would like to watch films in the original, read books in German. You can also communicate with foreigners on the Web. "Deep dive" There is a fairly effective method of "deep immersion" - surround yourself with German! How does it apply in practice? You can paste pieces of paper with the names of certain objects in the language you are learning in your apartment - you can hang a label on a drawer, bed, table, TV, lamp, and so on. It will also be useful to hang tables of irregular verbs in a conspicuous place. For example, three forms of verbs may hang by your bed, adverbs and prepositions by the dinner table, and a table of articles in the bathroom. Periodically change pieces of paper for others - otherwise, over time, you will simply stop noticing them. You can also translate your page into social network into German, periodically turn on audio books or listen to some German radio station. Start simple - choose materials for beginners. Practice Without regular practice, words will quickly be forgotten. Write messages often, chat on the Web, browse German forums - this is a great way to learn new expressions. For example, if you plan to learn several irregular verbs in a day, try to come up with a coherent sentence story that will contain these words. Don't Lose Interest It is unlikely that you will abandon the study of the language if you maintain interest in it, get acquainted with the culture of the country, breaking news, study biographies famous people. Plan trips to German cities, hang motivational posters in the room, and so on. Repeat the past Repetition in learning German, like any other language, is very important. Periodically return to the material covered, especially if there were pauses in the training. Try to review the already mastered rules from time to time and do exercises for them.

An effective method for learning German from scratch for beginners

When you start learning German, you need to ask yourself why you chose to do it. A well-formed answer will be your goal, motivation. It is important to clearly formulate this task, and determine how long you plan to achieve the goal - these terms must be realistic. Do not forget to make a training plan, and also determine how much time you have to spend on it. Do not set yourself a super-task - from time to time you should rest, gain strength so that interest in the language does not fade away, and classes are not a burden. Also, be sure to encourage yourself by going through new stages in learning - this will support your motivation. Periodically write down your accomplishments to keep track of your own progress and be inspired to try new things.

mnemonics

Some novice students ask themselves the question: “Will memorization help in learning the language? a large number words?" Often this information is of interest to people who hope to replenish their vocabulary. This can only be done using mnemonics. And yet it is worth recognizing that there is not too much benefit from this. What is mnemonics? It is a process of regular repetition of memorized phrases and words. In order for words to remain in the subcortex of consciousness for a long period, they require regular repetition. For example, if you memorize 50 new words a day, then by the end of the week you will need to repeat as many as 350. As a result, the result will most likely not be achieved. In addition, you may not need the words memorized using mnemonics in everyday life . It is advisable to stop at a different method, which will have a more significant effect. For example, as we have already mentioned, it is better to learn words using different cards.

25th frame

Some students show interest in the technique of memorizing the words "25th frame". You will be able to remember all the words learned in this way only by plunging into a trance, because the process is not carried out in active memory, and the student does not have a clear awareness of what he has memorized. Conclusion: it is better to discard such a technique.

How not to forget what you have learned

If you want the acquired knowledge to remain in your memory, you should practice regularly. The German language should, one way or another, be present in your life. There are many ways to help you learn German on your own and improve your level.Perhaps the best way can be called reading newspapers and books in the original language. Naturally, at first it is worth giving preference to light literature, gradually moving on to more complex ones. notice, that good results can be achieved by listening to audiobooks that have not only text appearing on the screen, but also voice accompaniment. With the help of such books, you can not only perceive the text, but also remember the spelling and pronunciation individual words. Also, do not forget about watching movies with Russian subtitles.

The German language seems so difficult! Grammar, articles, pronunciation... And yet, you decided to do it and start learning it. Today we will tell you where to start learning a language, and give a couple useful tips for a quick and efficient start.

First of all, decide on a goal - why do you need german? Want to add a line to your resume and impress the employer?

Are you planning to travel to Germany on holiday and are striving to master the minimum vocabulary you need to be able to shop in shopping malls, order dinner in a restaurant, etc.? In this case, an elementary level of knowledge will be quite enough and striving to comprehend all the subtleties of grammar and pronunciation is not your primary goal.

Another thing is if you need German at work to communicate with clients or partners from Germany. Solid knowledge with an emphasis on business vocabulary, writing business letters and negotiating skills in German will come in handy here. Do you want to receive in Germany higher education? You can’t do without an advanced level: you will have to listen and understand lectures in German, make presentations and write scientific work, communicate with classmates and professors.

Depending on your ultimate goal, a lesson plan will be built.

The next important moment along with the goal is your motivation.

Interest is the engine of progress. It does not matter what your interest in the German language will be based on - whether it is an economic interest (a new position or a new job) or a purely personal interest (a pretty deskmate / pretty neighbor). Perhaps all your life you have dreamed of reading Goethe and Schiller in the original? Do you want to understand what the cute German boy from the new video sings about in that song? Chat? The main thing is your interest and desire! You must have a desire to study the language, learn new things, strive to comprehend new level and move on. This requires a third condition - regularity of classes.

Set aside at least 1 hour each day for language learning.

New words that we memorize first fall into our working memory and replenish vocabulary. If you have read/heard a new word, but your memory has not formed a stable connection with the context or emotions, very soon this word will be regarded as redundant or unnecessary information and will go to the “storage shelves”. After two weeks of not using the word falls out of active stock into passive. Therefore, you need to study the language regularly and constantly.

The next rule is to practice little by little every day. Do not immediately try to remember "" or understand all tenses and case forms. More effective methodology will try to learn new material gradually, but - as already mentioned above - regularly. Get yourself a simple rule: teach. In a month you will already know 300 words, in a year 3600, and in three years your vocabulary will already be about 11000 words, which is close to the vocabulary of a native speaker, sufficient for communication in everyday life.

Try to speak and write as much as possible!

Active speech activity promotes effective learning language. It is no coincidence that the most effective technique in the world today is considered communicative technique. Communication, or communication - this is what, according to teachers and methodologists, should underlie any lesson. foreign language. Think about the question: do you speak German? (in English, in Russian?). We ask if the person speaks the language, not if they can translate or read.

Study on your own or with a teacher.

There are many cases when individuals studied a foreign language on their own, using textbooks or tutorials and achieved some success in this. But do not underestimate the role of the teacher - this is your ideal interlocutor in a foreign language lesson, a partner for compiling dialogues and a person who will help correct mistakes and answer questions. What is better to practice individually with or walk on ? Everyone should answer this question for himself, because. someone more inclined to work in a group, someone, on the contrary, feels less confident in the group and will be embarrassed by their mistakes. And for someone, an additional motivation in learning a language can be the opportunity to chat with group mates, discuss news, exchange opinions, etc. It is worth paying attention to the size of the group - 8-10 people are considered ideal, a maximum of 12, otherwise the lesson will be ineffective.

Moreover, the answer to this question will also depend on financial opportunities each - individual sessions with a tutor can be more expensive than group classes. Learning a language at a prestigious language center is also unlikely to be cheaper than courses offered at universities for students. Fortunately, these days there are many resources on the web that provide access to language courses and training programs, online dictionaries and language tandem sites where you can register and share knowledge. Great amount YouTube videos and podcasts provide an opportunity not only to train listening comprehension, but also to get acquainted with the nuances of pronunciation, expand your cultural fund and learn a lot about the other country whose language you are learning.

Many who want to learn a language go to university to become translators or teachers, but this is not the best option if you want to learn how to speak the language. It happens that the first course study in foreign language- solid linguistic theory and no practice, discussing in Russian why some prefixes in German are separable, while others are not - well, how will this actually help you at Oktoberfest? Another thing - language courses in the country of the language being studied: here you immediately immerse yourself in the language environment, situations real communication and you have the opportunity to “lose” and put into practice everything that was studied at the lesson at school before - here the topic is “food” and “acquaintance”, “at the station”, “in the bank”, “shopping”, “traveling” and etc. It is best to do such a course when you have already reached a certain level of knowledge and you want to move to a new, qualitatively different level.