By Noah Matthews
Most of the new immigrants from Mexico and farther south of the border are fluent in Spanish in my neck of the words, but not in English. For them, I recommend “Learn English Now!” a program that starts with the alphabet, moves on to English pronunciation, games and comparisons of their pronuncation with those of native English speakers. Directions and exercises are in Spanish only, which put me at a disadvantage, considering my skills from high school Spanish are hardly that comprehensive.
The language exercises begin with the most basic phrases (“Good morning”) and graduate to translating more difficult sentences (one features a running comment on the Washington, D.C. and other major cities). Another asks students to unscramble and translate phrases. And still another deals with more complex everyday phrases. The phrases are given in English, then translated into Spanish.
There are hours and hours of exercises, which can be repeated until they’re mastered. I’d guess that within a month, a Spanish speaker would be somewhat familiar with English and talking up a storm. A second CD covers grammar and word processing.
If you know someone who is serious – very serious – about learning English beyond typical phrases, these CDs will help immeasurably.
“Learn English Now” will run on all versions of Windows. To order, send $25, plus $6 for shipping, to WashingtonCD, PO Box 351531, Los Angeles, CA 90035, or online at www.washingtoncd.net.
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