Great method for learning languages
Written: May 03 '05
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Product Rating:
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Pros: properly learn pronunciation, vocabulary and grammar, without books.
Cons: takes a bit of patience as the lessons start slowly.
The Bottom Line: If you want to learn a new language, particularly one with which you have little to no experience, buy Pimsleur!
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| teddypinion's Full Review: Pimsluer - Pimsleur Language Program: Italian I |
I grew up speaking both English and French fluently, but travelling in Europe created frustrations with not being able to communicate in the primary language of the country I was visiting. I tried many different language programs, most with great frustration, until Pimsleur came along.
My first Pimsleur set was a 4 tape German program that I bought on a whim after a trip to Switzerland, and loved the method.
Before a recent trip to Italy, I decided to pick up Pimsleur's Italian I. Within literally days I was amazing some Italian friends with my new found language!
One thing to be aware of: you must be patient with the Pimsleur method. The first lesson or two seem frustrating, as you will have spent 30 or 60 minutes on the program, and feel like you have only learned two sentences. "I only understand a little Italian" ironically being one of them.
However, as the program goes on, you will realize that the first few lessons were designed to help you get comfortable with proper pronunciation. This can be often more important than rote memorization of new words.
Also, as the program progresses you may feel as though you are about to forget what you learned in previous lessons. Here the program throws "surprise" reviews at you in the middle of new lessons, ensuring that you dont forget the previous stuff.
When I first purchased the German program, I found the method frustrating, because it seemed to take forever to get up to speed, but after a few lessons, my vocabulary and comfort expanded quickly. Therefore I was better prepared for the Italian I program.
The other great thing about the Pimsleur program is that you don't need any books or written material, so you can use it while driving, or walking the dog.
I have been so impressed with the Pimsleur method that I have also used their 16-tape comprehensive Arabic program, and intend to purchase Italian II as well as the Danish program.
I have used the tapes in the past because I only had a tape deck in my car at the time. In the future I intend to buy the CDs so I can also download onto my MP3 player.
Pimsleur is a definite must for someone wanting the build a base in a new language.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
teddypinion
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Reviews written: 14
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