Getting a Better Grade

If you want to get a better grade in your class, you need to first be aware that there are three distinct areas that you will need to work on: grammar, vocabulary and oral proficiency.

Grammar

We have over 100 separate grammar topics on our website. The best approach is to study each topic before it is covered in class, and do the "free" activities. Then, after the classroom discussion, do the "premium" activities to cement what you have learned into your long-term memory, so that you don't forget it before the test.

Vocabulary

The most powerful tool for learning vocabulary is the simple flashcard -- 3 X 5 cards with Spanish on one side and English on the other. Of course, simply making flashcards isn't going to help much; you have to actually use them! Always carry some flashcards with you! This will allow you to study them at times when you normally would be doing nothing -- standing in line, riding the bus, waiting for class to start, etc. You can turn "wasted" time into productive study time. The key is that you always have a few flashcards with you.

Oral Proficiency

There is only one way to improve your oral proficiency: you must practice speaking the language. This means out loud and at normal conversational volume! Nearly everyone is a little uncomfortable at first. One of the big causes for discomfort comes from not knowing if you are "doing it right." That is, are you sounding the way you should sound? Something that every student needs is confidence that he/she has reasonably good pronunciation. That is why we have provided a complete pronunciation tutorial.

Which Product to Choose

• To get a better grade, your best choice is a 6-month premium membership for $39.95
  
  
• To speak Spanish conversationally, you need our complete audio course (15 CDs + 12 months premium access $164.95)