I'm thirteen years-old and I've been wanting to study the Korean language since I was twelve. I've self-studied and I believe I've learned some of the basics [Like reading and writing, the basic sentence structure, a few commonly used words, honorifics and such] but I don't know how to expand my vocabulary. I've tried looking for Korean language schools in my country but I couldn't find any. I've bought Korean music CDs and listen to them to develop my listening skills and a few English subbed Korean drama DVDs as well but I still have a hard time trying to learn new words.
Any ideas would be of great help! Thanks in advance!
2006-12-29 15:09:05 · 12 answers · asked by Tabby 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Languages
I'm 14, and I'm actually doing the same exact thing as you're doing, except with Spanish. I have been reading, writing, listening, and watching shows (on Youtube) in Spanish (except without the subs because no one dares to put subs), but I seem to be only learning ample.
What I can only seem to suggest is:
While listening to the music, READ the lyrics along with it, if possible. Also, you can sing along... to help you with your pronunciation.
Truly, I think the only way to learn it to your fullest expectations is through a good tutor or even living in Korea for a while, but we both know that is almost impossible at this point in time.
What I think you're doing to learn this is fantastic. I think you're doing as much as you probably can, so keep it up!
2006-12-29 17:40:56 · answer #1 · answered by Idolmonkey 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You can try Rosetta Stone. But it is expensive to buy. Most libraries have access to a subscription though. Check with your library.
Other than that, there is many programs on the internet, in the library, or at a university. Some are good, some are not.
Now people learn in different ways, so one program could be excellent for one person and terrible for another person. So you will have to test different ways to see what way works the best for you.
Still you will hit a glass ceiling. On a scale of 1 to 5, you can probably teach yourself to level 3 in a year or so if you keep up a high level of intense learning. And this would be enough to have basic understanding, have a decent level of vocabulary, a decent level of grammar, and able to carry on basic conversation. However, to get to level 4 or 5 which would be like speaking like a native speaker, you would have to live in that particular country for awhile and gain a complete grasp on the language.
2006-12-29 16:39:33 · answer #2 · answered by David 5 · 1⤊ 2⤋
Wow you are doing really great so far. I think having someone to practice with, a Korean friend, would be your best bet. Ask them to teach you how to express yourself in their language. Another way of learning is listening to your friend when he/she talks to other people - when they ask for directions, order food, buying something, etc. You don't have to move halfway across the world although it would be a good experience to immerse yourself in the culture and get used to seeing nothing but foreign things everywhere. Good luck!
2006-12-29 23:51:59 · answer #3 · answered by Oliver 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The absolute BEST way to learn is to immerse yourself. You need not travel abroad to do this. It would be more than helpful for you to hang out where people who speak that langauge, hang out. Is there an ethnic distrcit where the people in the shops and restaurants speak that language? Most people are honored when you try thier language, so start small, go and order your food, or call on the phone to ask a question. Be patient, and persistant!
2006-12-29 15:12:32 · answer #4 · answered by brandihoo 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Watching the news from Korea with subtitles in your first language is the best way to build vocabulary and practice pronunciation. Good luck.
2006-12-29 15:25:03 · answer #5 · answered by curious! 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Look and see if there are any Korean classes at a local college. I have a friend that is studying Arabic at the college in our town. I think it's easier to learn when you can see the person in real life and ask questions. To study use flash cards, and inexpensive and easy way to study.
2006-12-29 15:12:28 · answer #6 · answered by Maddie 2 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Go and visit Korea without a translator. That is the best and only way to learn and actually understand another language.
2006-12-29 15:22:22 · answer #7 · answered by jen l 1 · 0⤊ 3⤋
repetition is very helpful.
write out simple sentinces
or teach your parents, by saying something like "did you know this in korean means this in english?"
if you can, try and find some korean movies and try and recognize bits of what they're saying
2006-12-29 15:13:36 · answer #8 · answered by ladyjeansntee 4 · 1⤊ 1⤋
record a paragraph on a tape recorder and play it as many times as you want...still the best way to learn foreign language is to have someone speaking that language with you to have a conversation and teach you
2006-12-29 15:14:25 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
Read A Whole Dictionary!!
2006-12-30 03:05:21 · answer #10 · answered by nameer 2 · 0⤊ 4⤋