If you are going to be in Italy for a long time then just basics of the language will not cut it. Italian is a diverse language with dialects changing as you move from north to south. So it is essential you find a language tutor in Italy.
Before you finalize your language program or Italian tutor, determine the area where you will spend most of your time and identify the style of Italian that you will encounter most.
Tourists can get away with an elementary and functional knowledge of Italian – they don’t have to worry about the grammar to a large extent.
However, if you are an expat or a student, you will have to take into account local practices, syntax, and interpretations along with the necessary phonetics required.
Working in Italy and studying there will require you to interact in Italian on a deeper level and more often. Stay away from apps that promise quick fixes and DIY material. They don’t build the essential fundamentals which are necessary to help you learn faster and retain knowledge longer.
Read: How To Get An Italian Startup Visa Or ISV
Where Do You Find A Language Tutor In Italy?
Online Courses
The digital world gives you more options when it comes to finding a language tutor in Italy. There are many courses you can enroll online. These courses are usually divided into many modules and have assignments so you can be guaranteed of a comprehensive experience.
You will, however, have to keep your discipline and not get complacent since the courses are very flexible – and that can sometimes be an obstacle.
Language Schools
Language schools are recommended because they give you something that an app or a video does not, actual human interaction. Language school tutors also come with good qualifications and they are experienced in the art of teaching.
You wouldn’t just be interacting with someone who knows Italian; the Italian language tutor will also know how to delegate the fundamentals and examples in a way that helps you learn effectively.
Seek Help From Students
Another great way to learn Italian is to head over to the nearest university and inquire if there are students willing to learn an extra buck.
The teaching style might not be as formal as in a language school. You will need to concentrate on natural conversations and back these up with some learning on the side from books or other resources.
What Does Your Italian Learning Program Need To Have?
Learning a new language in a limited period of time is a bit tricky. The learning program will have to incorporate many important aspects – from practice to pronunciations.
Good Italian tutors make you do most of the talking and they will course correct you accordingly. If you are in a class, then you should interact with classmates in Italian as much as possible – this gives you real-world practice while you are negotiating the textbook lessons.
Before you jump into a course, ask your potential tutor about the session. How does it look? Choose a tutor who will interact more rather than just explain from a book. Reading sessions and practice conversations are an important part of the entire drill.
How comfortable are you when you speak to your (potential) tutor? That first interaction can be a good indicator – find someone who makes you comfortable while retaining their authority.
Learning Italian – 3 Useful Tips
1. Pay Attention To Homework
What about homework? Practice needs a little push and you need to get enough assignments. You should also be getting constructive feedback. In an Italian language class, you should not move on to the next topic when the previous one is not clear.
2. Grammar Matters
Grammar concepts are very important. Local speakers aren’t necessarily familiar with the hardcore grammar concepts so you need to find a qualified tutor or someone studying related disciplines. The grammar knowledge will help you in the long-term so you cannot ignore this aspect.
3. Look for Custom Courses
Custom courses are a big bonus. If you are an expat, you might want to focus on the business and work communication while students will want to look at regular interaction and learning-related themes.
Choosing a tailor-made program gives you more control – it is a more efficient way to learn the language because your precious time is being used strategically.
Learning Italian – Other Best Practices For International Students and Expats
Whichever way you want to learn Italian, remember that your duty does not end with the culmination of a session or a test. You need to incorporate the language in your everyday life.
Do not be afraid of making mistakes – you might correct some essential grammar while giving the others a reason to have a laugh. It’s all good!
The last bit is the most vital practice – make Italian friends. Find a bunch of people or an individual to converse with in Italian. This is easier when you are already in Italy but even if you are not, you can scour social media for language groups.
These experiences will help you appreciate the language more and it is much easier to pick up a language that you love!
Learning Italian will help you understand Italian culture better and this will be a life-changing, enriching experience. Practice and smart planning is the best way to begin your Italian language adventure.
Ti Auguro il Meglio!
