Although Spanish is considered an easy language, it is not free of pitfalls. Would you like to know how to pronounce rolled “r”s perfectly? Would you like to stop tearing your hair out over the use of the present subjunctive? In short, would you like to improve your Spanish and are you looking for some advice? Well you’ve found it! Here are 6 ways to improve your Spanish easily.
1. Take Spanish lessons to have a solid foundation
Let’s face it: although it’s possible to learn a language on your own, the best way to improve is to take lessons with a professional trainer. The latter will help you acquire the theoretical knowledge (grammar, conjugation…), and will also be there to ensure that you put it all into practice.
Pronunciation problems? A grammar point you don’t understand? Your trainer will help you overcome any difficulties that may arise during your learning. The rolled “r” will no longer hold any secrets for you!
✨ Bonus: learn how to choose your Spanish course with our advice.
2. Watch movies and series in Spanish
Until a few years ago, it was difficult to access series in Spanish. Today, with video-on-demand services, it’s a breeze! Depending on your level, watch your episodes in Spanish with English, Spanish or no subtitles at all.
If you don’t know what to watch to improve your Spanish, here is a small selection of our own.
Series:
- La casa de Papel;
- Queen of the South (dialogues are in both English and Spanish);
- Las chicas del cable;
- Quién mató a Sarah.
Films:
- Madre;
- Ya no estoy aquí;
- Verónica;
- Se busca papà.
All these movies and series are available on Netflix. So you can easily improve your Spanish from the comfort of your sofa.
3. Take dictations in the language of Cervantes
Does this bring back bad memories from school? Don’t worry, there will be no stern looking teacher during these dictations. You can simply choose a video you like on YouTube and write down what you hearSpeechling site which offers audio recordings in Spanish with corrections.
The great thing about dictation exercises is that they allow you to improve your Spanish without too much effort. Five to ten minutes a day is enough!
4. Improving your Spanish through reading
On the internet you can find many websites with articles in Spanish. You can start reading news articles (on El País or Mundo for example) or other topics that you like:
- sport with Mundo Deportivo
- art with Diario de Cultura
- science with Investigación y cienca
- etc.
You can also read your very first novel in Spanish. If you find this exercise difficult, start with a book you’ve already read in English.
5. Talk with Spanish-speaking friends or other learners
There’s nothing like chatting with native speakers to improve your Spanish without even realising it. Don’t know any Spanish speakers? Don’t worry! You will certainly find many people who will be happy to chat with you on social media. Look for groups dedicated to language learning and mention that you would like to do a language exchange.
If you live in a big city, you may have multilingual cafés nearby. These are institutions that organise meetings between learners of different languages. This is an opportunity to speak Spanish with people who are also studying this language.
6. Travel!
Although travelling is not necessary to learn a language, it is still a good way to make quick progress in Spanish. It’s a great way to combine business with pleasure. Indeed, what could be better than practising your oral expression by ordering a Mojito* in Barcelona? 😉
It is also the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture and to make some great discoveries:
- el Día de los Muertos in Mexico;
- Machu Pichu in Peru;
- the Tomatina de Buñol;
- the Salar d’Uyuni in Bolivia…
The Spanish-speaking world is rich in history, traditions and timeless landscapes.
Want to take Spanish lessons by phone or web conference with a native trainer? At 1to1PROGRESS, you can benefit from a tailor-made program, rich and varied resources and lessons with a professional trainer. With us, improving your Spanish is easy!
*Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health. Should be consumed in moderation.