Learn Key Vocabulary and Phrases First
Start by learning the most basic words and phrases that people use in everyday conversation! Questions and phrases about their day, where they live and work, how to ask for things at a restaurant or store, family, friends, times, dates, weather, etc. Learning key vocab words and phrases from any of these categories will help you tremendously—especially when you are just learning.
Common Phrases and Questions
| ENGLISH | SPANISH |
| How are you? | ¿Cómo estás? |
| What is the date today? | ¿Qué fecha es hoy? |
| What is the weather today? | ¿Qué tiempo hace hoy? |
| Where are you from? | ¿De dónde eres? |
| Where do you work? | ¿Dónde trabajas? |
| How much does this cost? | ¿Cuánto cuesta esto? |
| Can I have…? | ¿Puedo tener…? |
| I would like… | Quisiera…/Me gustaría… |
Ask Questions When You Don’t Understand
Ask when you don’t understand something someone said, ask when you don’t know how to say a certain word, ask when you’re reading something and don’t know a certain word, just ask! If you don’t ask then you will miss a learning opportunity, because otherwise how will you know!? Also, if you need to—look up words in the dictionary if there is no one to ask.
Practice, Practice, Practice!!
Of course you can take classes to help you learn a language better, but what can you do outside of the classroom? Practice by watching the TV in English (or with English subtitles), read in English, listen to music, and talk in English whenever you can! The only way to learn is to surround yourself with the language! Another great way to practice is to study abroad in a country where they speak it! Study abroad is always a great way to learn the language and culture of another country!
