People born in another country who want to learn English generally have good reasons for wanting to do so. Some of them plan to move here or have immigrated already, while others know that English is the primary language of international business.

If you want to help a non-native person learn to speak English, here are some easy ways to help him or her:

1. Practice informal conversation skills. Most people who are trying to learn English are eager to speak the language with a native. They will try out a few words or an expression, hoping to make a good impression and draw you into conversation so they can learn more. If that happens, speak naturally but distinctly so that the person can understand to the best of his or her ability. Use basic conversational words while avoiding slang or regional expressions, which the non-native may not know.

2. Offer help with grammar drills. If the non-native person is not already in an English class, you may want to write out a few basic grammar drills. For example, write a verb at the top of a page, and below it, conjugate the verb’s usage with all the singular and plural persons of speech:

To Talk:

I talk

you talk

he or she talks

it talks

we talk

they talk

Repeat each expression, encouraging the other person to say it after you.

3. Suggest television viewing. Thirty-minute weekly television programs are helpful because they set up a situation that is ongoing and easy for the viewer to follow in terms of understanding context and learning names. If possible, watch the show together and point out characters’ names, along with basic traits or actions in simple terms the non-native speaker can follow. Try to discuss the show afterward, beginning with easy phrases or comments:

“Funny, wasn’t it?”

“Did you like it?”

4. Pass along newspapers and magazines to read.

Even if the person has limited English skills, becoming familiar with the shape of English letters and print of common words will help the non-native begin to identify them. If you have time, point to a word or sentence and pronounce it, encouraging your friend to say it after you.

5. Visit public places. Go shopping, see a museum, stop by the park, or take the bus in order to experience new sites together. Use simple expressions to name or describe each location or main features. Your friend will begin to learn these as you say them, and the time spent together will hopefully prove mutually enjoyable.

In addition, you can recommend that your friend look up English grammar skills on the Internet, or pick up a grammar guide at the bookstore. Many of these are geared to people from other cultures. Remember to be patient, and consider referring your friend to the local International Institute or other agency that provides free or inexpensive English classes or tutoring.

1. Be PatientDon’t expect to learn Spanish too quickly. You may become frustrated when this doesn’t happen. Take your time and don’t expect to be perfect straight away. Learning a new language should be attempted in small, manageable steps. Congratulate yourself on progress made and try to steer clear of setting unrealistic goals.
2. Learn Spanish AbroadYou will learn fastest when you are exposed to the language you are trying to learn on a regular basis. You will find your mastery of Spanish will improve significantly if you combine what you learn in school with practice in practical, everyday situations.
3. Actively Involve Yourself With Spanish LiteratureYou don’t have to read an entire Spanish newspaper every day. However, by attempting to read a couple of small articles regularly, you can pick up common words and phrases. Reading newspapers and magazines can help you gain more confidence in your Spanish reading and writing ability.
4. Use FlashcardsUsing flashcards is a great way to remember important Spanish words you come across each day. If you keep hearing a word while you are out and about, write it on a flashcard. Also, if there is a word or phrase you find difficult to remember, write it on a flashcard. Review your flashcards frequently.
5. Watch Spanish Movies and Television ShowsThis is an easy and fun way to learn Spanish. Try to get as much exposure to Spanish film and television as possible. Also, watch English-language movies that have Spanish subtitles. Try to match the words spoken to the words written on the screen. This is particularly helpful in picking up different accents and trying to comprehend the Spanish language when spoken at a faster pace.
6. Label Your SurroundingsBuy a pad of stickies and go around your house and stick a Spanish label on things. Every time you go near a labeled item, say its name out loud. You will never forget the meaning of ‘el baño’ (the bathroom) again.
7. Learn With a FriendStudying and learning Spanish can sometimes be a frustrating and lonely process. Your motivation may drop from time to time. The best way to overcome this is by finding friends who will support you when progress seems elusive. Learning Spanish with a friend also ensures that you have an opportunity for practical and oral learning outside your classroom. Homework usually only involves reading and writing.
8. Join a Spanish Learning CommunityOnline, or in your local community, you will find a surprisingly large number of people trying to do the same thing as you. Sign up for online support and guidance, and attend and participate in local Spanish group meetings. We live in an age where information and guidance, if you want it, is easy to obtain. Take advantage of these resources.

Overall, remember that learning a foreign language can be challenging and frustrating. Progress will depend on the effort you put in and the resources you have available. But the learning can also be fun, rewarding, and worthwhile! To learn Spanish, you have to put your heart and soul into it. One hour here and there never really works. Watching the odd Spanish movie will not do. You need to set a plan and stick to it. Remember – the more exposure you have to Spanish, the better chance you have of mastering this language. Buena suerte! (Good luck!)

This article was contributed by Ben Moller-Butcher of ViaSpanish.