Studying Tips aka Well-balanced Español Diet

Question

I have been studying Español for a few months now, but I do not feel like I am progressing very much.

Generally, I practice conjugations, memorize a few vocabulary words, and do a few lessons on here courtesy of Ms. Paralee. Although, this sounds like very little, it takes me several hours. I try to practice speaking and listening, but considering most everyone in this house only speaks Español, they do not like to struggle with me. :/ My girlfriend is bilingual, but she works so much I just do not wish to make her day more strenuous.

What would you consider a well-balanced daily lesson for a beginner in Español?
Would you suggest anything else for me to do on a daily basis, such as translations? I would like to push myself as much as possible.

Thanks in advance, Stormy

Don't worry - it is hard to judge, and the truth is you will progress in fits and starts, so just keep plodding!!! - margaretbl, Jan 17, 2011

Thanks, I find myself getting discouraged quite often in that. But, you're exactly right. :) - LiveUnsheathed, Jan 17, 2011

Answer 1

I would do ALL the lessons (and I actually did!) on this site. Build your vocabulary by all means possible (read online newspapers, childrens stories, etc.) Keep word lists of words you come across that seem useful to you for common language. It's best to keep these lists in Flascards (you can make your own on this site for online word drills!). I spend almost half my time on learning and drilling vocabulary. Nothing slows down your practice speaking like finding that you don't know the word for just about anything you want to say!!

Answer 2

My advice would be: listen, speak, read and write as much spanish as you can absorb.

This is the advice of my english professors. With an emphasis on listening, because without the ability to understand, the rest will be much more difficult.

Answer 3

Wow, Storm, count your blessings. If you are living in a house full of Spanish speakers you are set to learn really fast. Just keep on talking as much as you can and let them put up with it. You are in total immersion, how wonderful is that!!!!

I agree!!! I'm jealous. - pesta, Jan 17, 2011

Answer 4

I find playing the word games in the forum helpful. They give me a chance to practice vocab, and grammar. It's fun and there is always plenty of help.