For those who need language practice...

[burbuja0512]

In the past couple of months, in addition to my normal business, school, and family duties, I have had to start speaking Portuguese. *yikes* I have read a few books in the past and worked on the Rosetta Stone CD, but it hasn't been a pressing need to speak fluently until recently. I have a trip coming up in a few months and WILL be giving a presentation so now I am starting to panic.

Anyhow, in searching for ways to practice speaking, I found a really cool website: The Mixxer | Language Exchange for Everyone It's not a substitute for instruction, but a really good compliment. Basically, you sign up and list your native language and what you're trying to speak. You can then join a group or meet someone whose needs compliment yours. For example, I have met a couple of people from Brazil, we've exchanged Skype info and then chatted. We agreed to 10 minutes in English and 10 in Portuguese. I was lucky enough on one occasion to find someone with a degree in Portuguese, who gave me some really great tips. You can find all sorts of languages there and native speakers of almost anything common language.

It's been a great way to practice without any pressure or expectations and with people who have a perfect accent! It's totally free and doesn't require leaving the house or any specific schedule. I am so excited how I've been connected with native speakers and since they really want to practice English, I'm not asking for a special favor.. just helping each other out. Added bonus - I can ask questions about culture or phrases that I can't find in books.




** Disclaimer - kids, make sure to check with parents first and of course use caution in handing out Skype info. **

[BrandeX]

Livemocha is a place you can study and meet people to do language exchanges.

[LaterBloomer]

Sites like these make me think that the Internet will make the world larger, not smaller. Think of it. Let's say that there's a language spoken by a diminishing group of people. The Internet allows others to connect with these people, and the language grows. The potential is limitless. Thanks to both of you for these sites.