Going to your very first conversation session can be daunting because you haven’t learned much of the language yet. Because you have studied only the first lesson or chapter of your book, you will not be able to speak in the language for the entire session. This is expected. Below are strategies that you can use to make the most of what you DO know how to do in the language.
Recite the alphabet
- Your book will open with an explanation of your language’s alphabet and sounds. For more information about learning sounds see the articles under Writing Systems and Sounds.
- Your language might have an alphabet song. Search for “[Language] Alphabet” on YouTube. If you can find a song, listen multiple times – and try to sing along!
Use the dialogues in your book
- Does your book start with meeting or greeting other people? Most books will start with basic language about how to introduce yourself. Recite the dialogue as many times as you can, to the point where you have it fully or nearly memorized. In your session, you will be able to concentrate more on pronunciation and less on remembering what to say. Remember to listen to the corresponding audio tracks from your book.
Modify Sentences to Say More
- Modify the basic sentences you have learned so far.
- For example, if your book’s dialogue includes the question, “How are your mother and father?” you could modify the question to “How are your friends?” If the dialogue says “I am American”, you could replace “American” with another nationality. Explore which new words are available to you and work them into your practice.
Learn Short, Useful Phrases
- One way to use less English in your conversation session is to take short phrases you might say in English and use phrases in your target language instead. Learn shorter phrases such as “I don’t understand. Please repeat?” and use them as often as possible. Also see: Useful Expressions for Conversation Sessions.
Note for Heritage Speakers
(Tips for Heritage Learners) If you grew up speaking this language or passively hearing it at home, you might be familiar with most of these introductory words and phrases already. This means that the first conversation session might seem like it will go very easily for you. However, you can still find ways to study effectively and fill in the gaps in your knowledge:
- Go through the entire assigned section carefully to see if there is anything new to you.
- Listen to all audio files for the chapter.
- Study the alphabet or script carefully and read the phrases/dialogues in the books while you listen to them.
Also remember that in your learning the language, you might have internalized certain grammatical mistakes and are repeating them without realizing it. While listening to your audio and reading the book, note if anything is different than how you or your family speak, and ask your conversation partner about it.
