Spanish Help: Online Games and Lessons

By James Rosenquist

Spanish is one of the most spoken languages in the world, and one that is relatively easy to master by English speakers. Whether you're learning a new language or simply brushing up on what you've learned in the past, becoming multi-lingual is a valuable skill that can enrich your life. There are several major benefits to learning the Spanish language. For starters, many schools and residents are studying Spanish in the United States in record numbers. Spanish is also becoming of greater importance in other locations around the world, including Europe where it is the language of choice after English. With more than 400 million Spanish speakers, it has become the fourth most common language in the world, behind English, Chinese and Hindustani. Whether you are learning the Spanish language in school or on your own at home, the resources found below can help you gain a better understanding of the language.

Aids in Travel: One of the major benefits of learning a second (or third) language is the opportunity to communicate with other cultures if you ever decide to travel to various areas of the world. While it's possible to travel to Spain, Mexico, or even Ecuatorial Guinea without knowing a word of Spanish, it's simply not as fun. If you know basic Spanish, you will be much more equipped to order food from restaurants, get directions, and casually talk with civilians. You'll be surprised at how much more you'll gain from your travels when you're better able to communicate with the spoken language.

Learn Other Languages: If you learn the Spanish language, you will have a head start to learning other Latin-based languages. French, Russian, Italian, and German all have Indo-European roots and possess many characteristics that are present in Spanish, but not English. Learning the basic structure of a language can also give you a basis to learn other types of languages - even Japanese. If you enjoy learning languages, don't stop right at Spanish and use your knowledge to learn various other languages.

Understanding of English: Many terms in the English language are derived from Latin origins - many which came by way of French. Since the Spanish language is based on the Latin language, learning Spanish can help you gain a better understanding of English vocabulary. Since both English and Spanish have Indo-European roots, the grammar in both languages are also similar. Learning both languages can help students learn more about how language is structured and aid in learning English verbs tenses by learning how they are used in Spanish.

More Employment Options: If you live in the United States, there are many employment options if you know a second language. Spanish speakers are needed in many career choices in the education and medical fields. Knowing Spanish can also help you with a career in international trade, tourism or communications. With many occupations that require extensive people skills, you may find that your new language helps for communication with other cultures.

Bridges Cultures: Learning more than one language allows you to better understand other cultures. When learning or traveling to other areas of the world, you may be better able to gain a sense of how other people think and learn in a way that is different than your own. Spanish also offers a wealth of both traditional and modern literature. Learn about various types of music, films, and other entertainment that is popular in other parts of the world.

It's Challenging: Learning a new language is fun, but challenging. For many people, there is something highly enjoyable about successfully learning to read and write in another tongue. This may be why many young children like to use secret codes that require deciphering or speak Pig Latin. While learning Spanish can be hard work, the efforts can quickly pay off when you begin to use your skills in places other than school.

Spanish Games

• Telling Time
• Colors in Spanish
• Fun Games for Learning Spanish
• Spanish-English Animals

Vocabulary

• Spanish Steps
• Spanish Quiz
• Vocabulary
• Spanish Sundries

Grammar

• Spanish Grammar Exercises
• Web Spanish Lessons
• Spanish Language and Culture
• Spanish Grammar
• Online Advanced Spanish Grammar Book
• Grammar Practices

General Resources

• Spanish Made Easy
• Learning Spanish Audio
• Listen to Spanish Numbers
• Online Spanish Workbook
• Spanish Language Exercises