I’m lucky in that I speak French fluently but it hasn’t always been the case. I moved to France aged 16 and didn’t speak a word, but the learning process was natural for me and I learned French through not having any choice. If I wanted friends or to be understood by my trainer then I was going to have to speak French. I can remember reading the dictionary for hours on end and phonetically learning how to say each word and then practising.
I know not everybody is in a situation where they can learn and have the opportunity to practise but I personally cannot imagine not being able to communicate.
Have you experienced language barriers where you live? Maybe you have some tips?
I’ve reblogged my Mum’s recent posting about this and her frustrations about not being able to speak Portuguese here:
I went to live in the States at age 20 had years of english but only reading and writing wast very lost trying to speak here is what I did I watch children cartoons which was very simple words.
Annie v.
Hi Annie, you are right re children’s cartoons – the language is simple. I have found several on YouTube.
I would love to get involved with a French immersion class. Having to speak the language is the best way to learn, just as you did.
Hi fee, I wish they had immersion classes here. Unfortunately, the local coundcil has cut all the free classes for foreigners now.
I would say that yes, language, or lack of it is a barrier to social integration. If you cannot communicate with the people around you, you cannot integrate. Not everyone wants to integrate, mind. Some are happy if they have a group of English speakers around them.
You mum might like to see if there’s an Internations group near her. It’s an English-speaking organisation but attracts all nationalities, and they meet once a month in the pub. What’s not to like? 🙂
Hi Sarah,
Unfortunately there are no internations groups near us…we live in the country 😦 However, since my post I have found a Portuguese lady who is keen to walk (exercise to keep fit AND she is a Portuguese teacher, but we will meet as friends and she has promised to help me). I am also going to advertise in the local Portuguese community for someone to help me with pronounciation. Even if they can’t speak English, I have loads of written material they can help me with re. pronounciation! 🙂
Yes I’m not sure I’d trade anything to go back to my early days in France when I was definitely less than fluent. each progressive step you can take in the language reaps rewards!
My husband is German, so we visit often. there are times I don’t understand things. Sometimes it makes me cry. Sometimes it is laughable. I do my best to speak his language. I found children books, cartoons, and watching familar tv shows to help.