The bilingual are nearly useless
One may imagine that the bilingual would be the most helpful in acquiring a
new language
In reality, the bilingual are almost useless.
I have found that this phenomenon is not unique to the Dutch (who are
competent speakers of English and often show little patience or gracious
indulgence of the English-speaking student of their tongue.) The Dutch are
good at it, but they're not alone.
Until the autodidact is able to show a skill that is impressive - and
practical - most bilingual speakers are of no use.
The difficulty is probably most acute when one speaks native the lingua
franca, and wants to learn a "smaller" language. Most people who learn
English as adults probably do so because they have to, if they wish to
converse internationally. It's probably not naturally easy to appreciate the
desire to learn a language that is less-"important."
You want to learn a minor language? That's good, and most people will
appreciate the sentiment - but that doesn't mean most of them will fully
empathize. Many will not believe that you're serious. Some will prefer to
believe that you are not - it's easier.
People who do not speak English will appreciate any communication that you
can manage.
But the bilingual? Forget about them. Ask a well-placed question every now
and then - with specific intent.
Don't expect them to indulge your efforts to speak their language. And if
you do try - for example, with one of their countrymen who does not speak
English - be ready for the bilingual speaker to jump in with help that is no
help at all.
www.geocities.com/stevenedw/contact.html
--~--~---------~--~----~------------~-------~--~----~
You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
"English Learner's Cafe" group.
To post to this group, send email to [email protected]
To unsubscribe from this group, send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
For more options, visit this group at
http://groups.google.com/group/english_learners?hl=en
-~----------~----~----~----~------~----~------~--~---
