What are some ways to become more assertive?

What are some different ways to become fluent in Spanish?

• Hi there! So this section probably gets this question a lot, but I'll go ahead and ask anyway. Here's my situation: I'm 16 years old, and have wanted to become fluent in Spanish since.... well, last year. I'm only in Spanish 2, though. I've tried testing out because I studied ahead and knew all the material of this year, but the teacher didn't like me because 1. I was the only white non- hispanic trying to get out and 2. I missed two out of 100 mandatory questions.. I didn't know how to say "cave" and "spray". So that was pretty embarrassing. :) I want to, with all my heart, become fluent in Spanish...but I don't know of many practices. Usually I have these verb and grammar textbooks that I study, and when I think of a word off the top of my head, I'll google it. I listen to the Spanish radio all the time, and when I watch TV I watch Spanish soap operas. Sometimes I'll stumble across a Hispanic that either a, doesn't speak any English or b, thinks that it's cool that I study Spanish, and we'll have a conversation...but that's about it. The sad part is that my family really, really thinks I should be fluent by now, with all the work that I put into this, but I'm not!! I can't afford to study abroad, and my only way of studying abroad is if I apply for the National Merit scholarship for Spanish...which considering how many other kids want that scholarship, I doubt I'll get it. ...So what are some ways that I can become fluent??

• Answer:

  You are already doing all the correct things. Please, be patient with yourself, you just started learning Spanish. Although a year may seem like a long time to you, it is really not. You should be a poster person for those who want to learn a foreign language, you take it upon yourself to go beyond the time in a classroom. And that is precisely what it takes, determination, and curiosity. Parents can be tough at times, have them take Spanish classes, and tell them you expect them to be fluent in a year! Languages are NOT learned in a year, let alone for a person to be fluent. Fluent means to speak, read and write a foreign language as if it was your own. How long does it take us to be fluent in English? YEARS! We speak the language because we hear it all around us, and we repeat what we hear. Then we go to school to learn grammar rules, vocabulary, phrasal verbs, etc. Try to make friends in Skype with those who speak Spanish. Training your listening skills, and actually speaking will really move you along. I have a feeling you may become a Spanish teacher one day. Good luck in all your endeavors, you certainly deserve it!