Voted Best Answer
Sep 16, 2017 - 09:10 AM
Thank ojos. To answer your question about fluency. I would say I am at about 5 to 6 in reading and listening comprehension. But only about 3 in speaking. The Spanish to English dictionary in my head works pretty good. But the English to Spanish dictionary in my heard is much slower. But I understand that is natural. What will I do next? In addition to continuing to do what I have mentioned before (You Tube videos etc) I will do things to help in my speaking skills and comfort and exercise that English to Spanish dictionary in my head. I have engaged an on line tutor through iTalki and plan to do one or two sessions per week. I have not done it yet, but I will also hook up with some language exchange partners on iTalki or Tandem.
I also have the advantage that I now live part time in Mexico. I spend about 6 months in the US and 6 months in Mexico (I am in Mexico right now). Even though most of the local Mexicans speak English pretty well, lately I have been trying to us Spanish as much as possible in my interactions. And most are very good about politely correcting me. I will also continue the Friday evening coffee shop language exchange in my town that I told you about before. All the while continuing to watch You Tube videos about topics that I feel I am weak in. Good luck in your journey and I will continue to check back here every once in a while.
I also have the advantage that I now live part time in Mexico. I spend about 6 months in the US and 6 months in Mexico (I am in Mexico right now). Even though most of the local Mexicans speak English pretty well, lately I have been trying to us Spanish as much as possible in my interactions. And most are very good about politely correcting me. I will also continue the Friday evening coffee shop language exchange in my town that I told you about before. All the while continuing to watch You Tube videos about topics that I feel I am weak in. Good luck in your journey and I will continue to check back here every once in a while.
