How To Make Language Learning an Adventure
This is how I’m learning Assamese
Hello to my English readers.
Namaskar 🙏🏻 to my Assamese readers.
This respectful greeting must be used in Assam when meeting someone.
In Assam, respect is everything.
I know this because I’m taking a different approach to learning the Assamese language.
No textbooks, courses, and the apps I purchased were useless.
So what have I done?
Why do I think learning the Assamese language is an adventure?
A different approach
My native language is English.
I learned French the traditional way through courses, textbooks and visits to the country. However, it took a long time to become fluent enough to have a meaningful conversation, and it was a constant battle to improve my vocabulary.
I’m not naturally gifted at learning languages.
So, why am I learning Assamese?
Assamese is an Indian language which is spoken in Assam, a state in the northeast of India.
I’m learning this language because of my friendship with someone from Assam, which has given me an interest in the country and all it represents.
As with a lot of things in life, it’s about taking an opportunity and accepting an offer of help.
Hoi, moi Akhomiya xiki asu. For my Assamese-speaking readers
Yes, I’m learning Assamese. For my English-speaking readers.
My adventure
As a writer, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with other writers and have been fortunate to get to know some of them well.
English is our common language, but they are from many parts of the world.
Connecting with a writer from Assam made me realise the magnitude of the cultural differences, and I was intrigued.
I wanted to learn about Assam, and also to attempt to learn the language.
After trying and struggling to make sense of the language without help, my friend offered his assistance.
I now know that the Assamese language is intertwined with culture and respect.
This concept would have been difficult to grasp without expert native speaker help.
He tells me about festivals, traditions, food, daily life, family, lifestyle, poetry and writing.
I’m building up a vocabulary based on our daily communication, which is usually by WhatsApp.
Phrases we use together are translated and I note down the words and phrases used after our conversation.
I’m now starting to interact in our conversations in Assamese, so dhanyabad 🙏🏻 to my friend — thank you.
The goal is to speak to him in his language.
Not only am I learning a language, but I’m also enjoying our new friendship.
A new way
So, be creative in all you do.
I’ve already seen the result of shunning the conventional way of learning a language.
I’ve embraced the new and creative way I’ve chosen.
But
Mur xikkhyok goraki bor bhal.
My teacher is very good.
I’m lucky because
Moi egoraki bor bhal guru bisari paisu.
I’ve found a good teacher.
I hope you do, too.
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