Foreign Language Learning

Travel, business, conversation with friends, and curiosity  - these are just some of the reasons you may want to learn another language.  DCPL has a variety of resources to help you, including foreign language books and language learning CDs.  We also have online databases that will teach you a new language and evaluate your foreign language skills.

The examples below showcase resources for learning Spanish.  However, most of these resources are available for other languages as well.

Databases

• Mango Languages

  Mango's unique teaching method quickly engages you in real conversations between two native speakers. Your instructor will take you through every step of the process. Each lesson revisits previously learned material, but you have complete control over your learning experience.  Choose from 48 language courses including English.

• Tell Me More

  Language learning program for English, Dutch, French, German, Italian, and Spanish. Requires: headphones/speakers, microphone and Flash software.

Catalog Links

• All-audio Spanish: Basic-Intermediate
  

  This downloadable audiobook includes 3 hours of audio instruction - no reading required. This is part one of a two part set (part two is also available) covering basic to intermediate Spanish language skills.

  
  
  
• Intermediate Spanish for Dummies
  

  You'll get up to speed with Spanish grammar, master essential differences between Spanish and English language usage, and be able to communicate effectively when traveling or conducting business. Also available for beginners (Spanish for Dummies) and for other languages including Italian, French and German.

  
  
  
• Pimsleur Language Programs
  

  Pimsleur offers CD programs for a variety of languages including Spanish, French, Hebrew, Arabic and Chinese.  Programs are available for beginners as well as intermediate and advanced learners.

  
  
  
• Spanish Demystified
  

  Step by step, you'll build your Spanish vocabulary with essential words, idioms, and phrases. Test are provided at the end of each chapter.  Also available for French, German, Italian and Japanese.

  
  
  

Web Links

• FreeRice.com
  FreeRice is a non-profit website run by the United Nations World Food Programme.  Choose a language and play the game to improve your vocabulary.

   

  To play:

  • Click on the right answer in the middle of this page.
  • If you get it right, you get a harder question. If you get it wrong, you get an easier question.
  • For each answer you get right, they donate 10 grains of rice to the United Nations World Food Program.

   

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• LiveMocha.com

  Livemocha offers a unique combination of online language learning and practice with native speakers.  Livemocha has a large community of native speakers eager to help and learn from each other. Plus, you get to contribute your own knowledge to help others.  Note: There is a charge for courses after a certain number of hours have been logged.