Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How can I master Spanish in St. Louis, MO and what are the possibilities in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with special programs, you have several key options for learning Spanish interactively in St. Louis, MO. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, read about centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are better priced.) Your other option can be local private language academies that are cheaper and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, not-for-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Fourth, you can choose a private Spanish tutor in St. Louis, MO. If flexibility is key, you can compare local St. Louis, MO and online Spanish tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn Spanish and what do Spanish tutors charge?
For university and college courses you can estimate Spanish course cost as 1/10th of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the cost of about 50 lesson hours each semester. Language schools and private Spanish tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the less pricey Spanish tutors can be found online, with rates on Preply averaging 15 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, ratings and languages the tutor can teach in. Average student satisfaction for Spanish lessons on Preply is 4.96 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of Spanish do I need to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared demonstrate proof of your current level. Planned classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework commitment and testing, so research the details in advance. With personal Spanish tutors you can read reviews and get a good idea for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like instruction for beginners, etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are teaching online.
🔥 Why is Spanish so difficult and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
Standardized language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Spanish. Realistically, you can gain basic Spanish fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback five hours a week you will be able to understand most phrases, express yourself, socialize in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a rapid and fun way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Spanish. After mastering basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Spanish tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced learners.
🤷 How long does it take to master Spanish?
Some people brag about their natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Spanish will require at least 600 hours of practice. The required duration of time can differ quite a bit depending on your current level of Spanish or knowledge of other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is recommended to use the language as often as possible: watch television, write using your new language skills, try to communicate with native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in Spanish out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational Spanish classes online.
🤳 What are my options when choosing the Spanish teacher?
In learning centers, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, absolutely! The largest selection of approved Spanish tutors with video profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning resources like Preply.
🗓 What time of day and on which days are classes available?
Colleges usually structure classes two times weekly over a semester (15-week period). Language schools usually offer shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, you can take as few as one lesson a year, as many as several a day - and as many (or as few) as you want during any time of day, on weekdays and/or weekends.