Ways To Learn Modern Hebrew

By Katy Kline


Hebrew went through a time of being considered a dead language that was only really used by religious leaders and academics. Its revival as a spoken language was linked to the Zionist movement and the founding of the modern state of Israel, where it is the official language today. If you want to learn modern Hebrew, it is easier now than ever before.

In the past, much learning of languages was achieved by laboriously wading through dry textbooks. Audiobooks were also used. Although both these methods are still used, they both have disadvantages. Textbooks cannot teach pronunciation and audiobooks do not show written text. Nowadays a combined approach is considered most effective. Many internet resources follow a combined approach, with speaking, reading and writing being taught.

Many different courses are available and so some research may be required to find out which ones are most helpful. The content needs to be well constructed, starting with the basics and gradually adding to this step by step. The methods of learning should be tried and tested. Some approaches rely more on CDs with some reading material whilst others rely more on group sessions.

Many of these series of courses have sessions designed for those who have no experience at all with the language. They focus on the student acquiring a basic vocabulary, learning the alphabet (Aleph Bet) and the vowel system. The goal is for the beginner to be able to hold a basic conversation by the end of the course.

Virtual classes provide a supportive environment for students. They can log in and chat with a well qualified teacher and other students. The groups usually consist of six to eight students and they practice together with one another, building up confidence along the way. This is a supportive environment where mistakes can be made without embarrassment as everyone is learning together.

Online websites offer information about the dates and times when courses are available. Prices of the different courses can vary greatly and there are even free video courses available online. The best courses may be costly but when weighed up against the quality of what is offered, it is often well worth the money.

Sometimes an online evaluation test will establish whether one should register for the beginner, intermediate or advanced course. Each course consists of a number of sessions. Registration online is possible and once this is completed, students may be sent various materials depending on the nature of the course.

It is important to realize that some dedication is required before results can be seen. Even if one is participating in a weekly online session, daily practice is still required to build up the necessary skills. If you are wanting to learn modern Hebrew, there is no reason why you should not succeed with the resources available and some dedication on your part.




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