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    10 Tips on Learning German

    1. Be patient: Keep in mind that learning a new language will always involve phases of frustration.  This is even more often the case if German is the first foreign language you’ve decided to learn. But that’s all they are – phases! Don’t let these phases discourage you. Instead, focus on the learning process and try to accept the fact that, in the beginning, you’ll have difficulty in expressing yourself without making mistakes.

    2. We suggest finding and practicing with a language partner with whom you can take turns practicing German and your native language (language tandem). Agree to speak German half the time and your native language the other half of the time, and make it a pleasant learning experience by going together to the movies or a café, or cook your favorite meals together.

    3. Ask questions: Adults learning a foreign language are often afraid to make mistakes. Don’t let this be you! Have the courage to ask questions if you don’t understand something that’s been said or that you’ve read. We know - it’s easier said than done. It’s often anything but easy to ask questions like: “What does this word mean?”; “Could you please repeat that last sentence?”; and “Did you understand what I just said?”. But it’s the only way to learn! 

    4. Allow others to correct you: Encourage your German friends or colleagues to correct you when you make a mistake. There is no reason to feel embarrassed or ashamed; we learn best from our mistakes! The trick is to take note of the correction without losing your train of thought.

    5. Use what you learn: Many foreign language students hesitate when it comes to actively using the language they’ve learned. Set a goal for yourself that will force you to use your German, like ordering something at the bakery, making a telephone call, buying a train ticket, etc. 

    6. German 24/7: Make an effort to listen to German radio stations, watch German TV or movies, etc. Take advantage of the broad spectrum of available German media and immerse yourself in the German language. 

    7. Take the initiative: Invite some of your German friends over for dinner and introduce them to your country’s cuisine and customs.

    8. The right preparation: Gaining a basic knowledge of German while in your home country can make your new start in Germany much easier. Immerse yourself in the new environment:

    9. To improve your German, try to remain completely open to the new environment and culture. Moreover, be kind but firm with friends and acquaintances who want to practice their English with you all the time.

    10. Don’t panic: It can be quite frustrating to realize that you still can’t understand a word that’s being said despite your newly gained knowledge of German. Don’t worry! A reason for this could be that almost every region in Germany has its own special dialect, and the Heilbronn-Franken region is no exception. Only time can help you pick up on the differences between “Hochdeutsch” (high German) and the dialect spoken in your area. The typical dialect in the Heilbronn-Franken region is known as “Schwäbisch”; we recommend making a concentrated effort to familiarize yourself with this dialect’s nuances and features. Gaining a basic knowledge of German while in your home country can make your new start in Germany much easier.


    Source: Welcome Center Neckar-Alb

     
    Wirtschaftsregion Heilbronn-Franken GmbH | Weipertstraße 8-10 | 74076 Heilbronn | Telefon 0049 - 7131-7669-860
     
     

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