Learning a foreign language is no easy task. However, in my five months here, although I am far from knowing anything, really, I have discovered a few ways to help me understand.
1. Speak to children. They tend to speak slower and have less vocabulary, so it is easier to understand them.
2. Read children's books. I am on 4 year old books now. I understand about 80% of what I read. Hey, I am better than a three year old.
3. Drink. I have found I think I understand more with a bit of wine. This may or may not be true.
4. Nod and laugh when others in the conversation do so. They will assume you understand. If they are speaking about you, they will assume you have a good sense of humor. Either way you win.
5. Squint your eyes. Just as this helps you see abstract art with better understanding, learning a foreign language is easier when you squint. (Special note: if you also tilt your head, as a dog does, you understand almost everything.)
So, for all my friends back in the states still in university, if you take a foreign language, follow my tips. You are sure fire to be overconfident in your abilities.
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