In our Complete Guide To Intensive Language Learning, we touched on the best intensive language learning schedule. But we thought it deserved some more thought, because really, intensive language learning is all about schedule.
Why? Well a language course’s schedule defines its intensity! How often you study, how long for, what type of classes you take… All of these factors affect just how intensive your language learning will be.
So in this article, we thought we’d go into a bit more detail about the best intensive language learning schedule – and how you can create one that works for you or your company!
What’s the Best Intensive Language Learning Schedule?
According to the FSI, if we are able to put in 10 hours a day to learn a language, then basic fluency should take 48 days for easy languages, and 72 days for difficult languages. Based on this number, we can take some insight into course intensity and what’s realistic.
While a 10 hour language lesson a day would make for the swiftest learning, it’s not a particularly accessible goal for many learners. Not everyone has that much free time to allocate to language learning, so we prefer morning and/or afternoon lessons.
At SIMON & SIMON, our intensive language courses offer either half-day (4-hours) or full-day (8-hours with breaks throughout the day) classes in your target language, depending on your availability. This way, you can still make time for other important things in your life while making significant progress towards fluency!
The most important factor in what makes the best intensive learning schedule is that you find a schedule that you are able to commit to. Make sure you understand your availability before you commit to a course, as big study breaks will have an impact on your learning timeline and your long-term retention.
Ensuring you have the time to study, or that your company can provide time for your language development if for an international work project, can also reduce stress when on the course, which makes for better learning.
What’s the best time of day to learn a language?
The best time of day to learn a language is when you are most alert and have the most energy. This will be different for everyone, but in general, we recommend morning classes.
Our brain power is at its peak in the morning, so it’s the ideal time to study a new language. In fact, science says one optimal window of learning is between 10am and 2pm, so if you can commit to a class in the morning, this is a great way to learn your language fast.
However, if you’re more of an afternoon power-learner, or need to commit your mornings to work projects, don’t worry, we have afternoon classes too!
At SIMON & SIMON, our half-day intensive classes are held from Monday to Friday, 9am-12pm or 1pm-4pm. Our full-day classes are held from Monday to Friday, 9am-4pm.
Both our full-day and half day classes are designed to be as intensive as possible, with a focus on active class participation and immersive language use. This means that you will practice speaking, listening, reading and writing in your chosen foreign language from the very first lesson.
Whether you’re a morning person or afternoon learner, our classes offer an effective intensive language learning schedule for you. Led by native speakers, you’ll be fluent in your new language in no time!
How To Choose the Right Language Learning Schedule For You
For new language learners, we recommend a half-day class schedule to start with. This way, you can ease into the language learning process and get a feel for how much time you will need to commit to achieve your goals.
Once you have a better understanding of the language and what level you are at, you can adjust your schedule accordingly. If you find that you could take on a bit more, then you can increase your class time to a full day. Alternatively, if you feel like you need a bit more of a break between classes, you can switch to a less intensive schedule.
It’s important to find a balance that works for you so that you can stay motivated and engaged in your language learning journey. Some factors to consider when deciding on your learning schedule could include:
- What does your daily schedule look like?
- Do you have the ability to make time (from a few weeks to a few months) for intensive language study? Do you have any major projects or deadlines coming up that will require your full attention?
- Do you have any other commitments that could interfere with your studies, like family or social obligations?
- Are you able to dedicate time to your language learning outside of class? Can you commit to extra studying or language immersion at home or during your lunch break?
- What is your motivation for choosing an intensive course?
What You Will Learn in an Intensive Language Course
From listening comprehension to new vocabulary and new words, learning a language via intensive study will give you a comprehensive grasp of the grammar, syntax and vocabulary of your chosen language.
In a great intensive language course, you will have plenty of opportunities to practice speaking in your new language with other students in class, as well as with your native language speaking teacher. This will help you to build confidence when communicating in your new language and train your ear to become accustomed to the sounds of the language.
In addition, on our courses you will also learn how to use your language in a professional setting, making it the perfect option for teams, businesses and business leaders that are looking to expand into international markets.
By the end of your intensive course, you will be able to:
- Communicate effectively in your chosen language for work, travel or study
- Understand and use key grammar points correctly
- Build up a comprehensive vocabulary in your new language
- Improve your pronunciation and intonation
- Develop your listening comprehension skills
- Feel confident using your new language in real-world situations.
Ready To Jump Start Your Language Learning Journey?
At SIMON & SIMON, we offer a range of intensive language courses for all levels, from beginner to advanced. If you’re looking to learn French, Spanish, or Arabic, we have an intensive course for you.
If you’re looking to learn another language, our Business Language Courses can cater to a range of scheduling needs. We look forward to helping you achieve your language learning goals!