Learning American Sign Language (ASL) is fun and anyone can do it, especially YOU! But, you might be wondering how long it takes to learn ASL. The short answer is - it depends. Learning a new language can take months to years depending on multiple factors, such as: The quality, structure, quantity, and location (e.g., church, library, high school, college, private instructor, self-study, community-based association) of the classes or courses you take  Different class settings

We get it -- summertime often means vacations where you'll be out of your regular routine, and maybe even taking a break from your classes or lessons. Here, Spanish tutor Joan B. offers some tips for avoiding the dreaded learning loss, while still enjoying your summer...   Practice makes perfect, and language skills are no exception. And while we don't recommend taking time off from learning, we understand the summertime mindset. If you must take a break, you can avoid major le

Feeling sick is bad enough as it is. Add to that not knowing how to explain how you feel when in a foreign country. Medical vocabulary is a must to know when you are abroad. If you are visiting a Spanish speaking country, then it’s a good idea to prepare yourself in advance by learning medical Spanish vocabulary. You never know when it may come in handy.  Today, I put together a comprehensive guide to help you communicate at the physician’s office. Here you will find all the words yo

Humor is one of those concepts that is impossible to translate literally. So much more depends on the jokes told than the mere words used. Nuances and cultural context add invisible layers that can trip non-native speakers up. In the past, when I watched humoristes (comedians) with my family and even when I understood the words, often, the punchline fell flat. I’d sit there wondering how those around me were giggling. As time passed, I began to find myself also amused as opposed to bewildered.

blue jean images / blue jean images / Getty Images Are you trying to prepare for the Advanced Placement (AP) Chinese Language and Culture Exam?  The AP Chinese exam can be challenging, but by understanding what's on this test, you can feel prepared and confident.   If you're feeling anxious, you’re certainly not alone. With thousands of high school students from across the United States taking this challenging college-level test each year, there is no doubt that preparing for it can

It’s always a good time for your child to begin learning a new language. After all, learning another language can benefit your child in countless ways. Not only can it provide your kid with the ability to communicate in new ways, but it can also improve his or her critical thinking, problem-solving, and listening skills, along with enhancing memory and boosting self-confidence. If you’re wondering what language to introduce, why not begin with American Sign Language (ASL)? American Sign L

Willie B. Thomas / DigitalVision / Getty Images Are you looking for a way to challenge yourself and stand out from the rest of the college crowd? Taking an AP Chinese course might be just what you need.   AP Chinese is a rigorous language course that can give you an edge when applying to college and prove your dedication to studying a language.  Even if your plan isn't to major in Chinese at college, there are plenty of benefits from completing this advanced placement course. From i

If you have ever studied Spanish, even if just a little bit, I’m sure you’ve come across the reflexive verbs. The reflexive verbs are key to mastering the Spanish language and yet, they can be a bit confusing. Today, I bring you a comprehensive Spanish reflexive verbs chart and comprehensive guide that you can always come back to when confusion strikes.  But first… let’s go over what reflexive verbs and reflexive pronouns are.  What is an Example of a Reflexive Verb? A reflexive v

You may think you do not know French but in reality, you do more than you could imagine. A lot of English words take their roots into French roots as much as Latin roots. Some words are borrowed directly from the French repertoire, others are similar but use an American spelling and pronunciation and finally some expressions are coming straight from the French culture and lifestyle. Let Me Be Your Guide Today for a Little “Voyage” in Paris  Close your eyes and visualize ... You wak

To say Happy Father’s Day in different languages, you just need to memorize a few multilingual Father’s Day phrases. This way, you can make this day special for the father, step-dad, grandpa, or father-figure in your life. How Do You Say Happy Father’s Day in Different Languages? You can say “Hyvää Isänpäivää!” in Finnish or روز پدر مبارک in Persian, or Buona festa del papà in Italian. All of these phrases sounds different but each carries the same sentiment. Le