Transparent Language-

For the past year I have heard people mention the Transparent Language programs with raving reviews. After spending some time with the "French Now!" program, I can see why it has become so popular. The program can be purchased in English, Latin (one of the only ones on the market!) Russian, Italian, German, French and Spanish. The basis of this program is that by reading current, interesting material while listening to a quality native speaker you will learn much of what you need to know. The box says that this program has you Read-Listen-Speak. This is the basic structure of the entire program.

Some programs have you listening to and repeating endless silly conversations dealing with restaurants and airplane terminals. Yes, you need to know how to converse while you travel, but this can get boring. In all reality most of us are learning a language simply for the experience and not because we will be traveling to a foreign country. The material provided in the Transparent Language programs contain up to date newspaper and magazine articles as well as useful conversations.

Transparent Language includes video clips to allow your children to view native speakers at work. One of the nicest additions to the latest version is the "language slowing" feature. Your child can slow the native speakers speech by as much as 50% if he is struggling. This feature was a great help to me! As you record your voice you can compare the sound analysis to that of the native speaker. It is difficult to make your speech pattern match exactly, but the closer your get the better you are doing. This added visual analysis was helpful. A wide variety of material makes this program appropriate for the beginning learner as well as those wanting to 'brush up' on a language they already know.

The main program contains everything you would need to get started. Transparent Language has produced several 'add-on' programs which include travel, culture, literature and many other subjects. A more detailed vocabulary program is available as well called "WordAce!" This program is a great choice for someone who wants an immersion program but still wants to know that detailed help is only a holler away. You can use this program in a random method or proceed step-by-step if that is more your style. This is a good choice for a family wanting to study a foreign language at home.

Grading:

Educational value- 5
Entertainment value- 4
Age- 12+

See All Transparent Language Programs at Amazon!