4 World Cup Champ Lessons for Language Learners

Spain´s soccer team, La Roja, (The Red), topped Holland 1-0 to win the 2010 World Cup yesterday.

La Roja exuded 4 key qualities langauge learners need to score their own goals.

1. Confidence - The Spaniards seemed to never doubt their ability to win. Language learners must be confident in their ability to use their chosen language. Study, practice, and hard work are required. While a teacher can help a student, the teacher will not be there when the learner needs to communicate to give a presentation, order a sumptuous meal, or simply find a restroom.

2. Patience - Spain´s team played patiently instead of going for a quick score. Competent language learners are not made overnight. Students must invest time in exploring the culture, people, language, and other non-linguistic aspects to fully understand their chosen language.

3. Consistency -World Cup Champ Spain faced each team with consistent formula for success. Successful language learners are consistent in their practices from reviewing on a daily basis their notes, doing exercises assigned by teachers, and participating actively in class.

4. Persistence - The Spanish team lost its first game against Switzerland. As often in life, it is not where you start, but where you finish. The team did not quit after a bad day. It pushed forward to the next games. Language learning is not a linear progression, either. Some days are better than others. However, winners always find a way to win. The one down day at the start is now a distant memory.

The Final Score
Languages are full of surprises for learners, but a concerted effort applying confidence and patience in a consistent and persistent manner is a winning combination as evidenced by the new world soccer champion, Spain.
 *** If you are in São Paulo and need English lessons, or Elite English Services including translations (Spanish/French/Portuguese to English), please call Professor Winn at 11-6135-9024 or send an email to mrenglish101@gmail.com for a prompt evaluation. Buy your English-language texts today!