The best ways to learn a language

When it comes to learning a language, there are many ways to do it.  As well as reading and writing, you have to be able to listen and speak.  To keep it interesting I like to use a variety of tools, which don't always involve books, such as CDs and visual aids.

I have my own material but am happy to use whatever the school teacher is using for daily or weekly lessons.

Having spent time living in France, I now understand that the only way to learn a language is to spend time in the country.  This isn't always possible so I like to bring to the lessons what I have learned so that the necessary grammar work can be coupled with the more interesting cultural aspects - aiming to achieve a genuine rather than superficial interest.

My four tips to learning a language:

1) Learn your vocab (there's no other way!)

2) Read French newspapers/magazines (online is usually the easiest way) or small novels.  

3) Listen to French radio/music (again online if easier)

4) Read out loud to yourself to improve pronunciation

It's so rewarding so don't let the little struggles put you off!  You never know when you may really need to speak French...