Description

This course aims to take users from scratch to having a solid base in Italian within six months, and to feel comfortable with the language in as little as three months.In only half an hour a day users will move ahead naturally until they are at ease with all the basic structures needed for communication and become familiar with the basic words and grammar of Italian.The method comprises two phases: the passive phase, in which users simply repeat what they hear and read, and the active phase, in which users begin to create sentences and imagine themselves in a variety of everyday situations.The audio is transcribed and translated in the book which also contains detailed grammar notes and exercises and amusing cartoons.432 page book + 104 MP3sA unique learning principle:Intuitive AssimilationHow did you learn to speak?You probably don’t even know. You listened to your parents, gradually understanding the meanings of sounds, words, and then whole sentences. Then, once you had absorbed – or assimilated – the meanings of the word associations, you began to link words and form your own sentences. Assimil applied this same natural process adapting it to the abilities of adults, young and old.You assimilate in two phases:The Passive PhaseThe first step is to familiarise yourself with the new language through daily sessions lasting 20 to 30 minutes. You listen and read – and you understand what is being said through the translation provided. You repeat each sentence aloud to practice your pronunciation, with the help of easy phonetic spellings and, better still, recordings. During the Passive Phase you shouldn’t try to form sentences. Just immerse yourself in the language. Every seventh lesson you’ll find a review of all the points covered in the previous six lessons and a summary of the main grammar points learned during the week. The key to success is the daily routine.The first two weeks are crucial. The rest will come naturally.The Active PhaseThe Active Phase starts when you have acquired enough passive knowledge – around Lesson 50. This phase continues alongside passive learning, and involves revising Lesson 1, then Lesson 2 and so on, completing one “active” lesson and one “passive” lesson each day.In the Active Phase, you cover up the text in the target language and, using the translation on the opposite page, try to say it out loud – or in writing if you wish. The Active Phase continues throughout the entire second half of the book. For most major languages, it takes about five months to assimilate a course of 100 lessons.You’ll be amazed at your results! During this second phase, you will be building sentences with ease and this encourages you to go on and complete your course.A With Ease course will enable you to reach a level of fluent everyday conversation. You will have a good understanding of the grammar and a large vocabulary (around 2,000 words). It is commonly agreed that an adult speaker uses about 1,500 words.Setting the standard for 80 years.The Assimil brand was created exactly 80 years ago with its first method, “L’Anglais Sans Peine”, for learning English.InnovationAssimil pioneered self-study language methods in France and is now a household name for foreign-language learning. Assimil offers a new way to learn: an original and effective method based on the principle of intuitive assimilation – a world first.Instant successFrom the outset, Assimil’s methods proved highly popular. The first sentence of “L’Anglais Sans Peine” – My tailor is rich – has become a catchphrase in France.A method that worksStudents learn a language in its linguistic and cultural context, while focusing on oral communication. What better proof of success than the sale of millions of self-study methods since 1929? To date, more than 35 million people around the world have learned or are learning a language with Assimil.New developmentsAssimil has continuously updated its self-study methods, but its main focus is on expanding the catalogue. More than 100 offerings are now available, from European and regional languages to the most “exotic” languages. Over the years, Assimil has adapted to new media, from 78 rpm vinyl records to MP3, and is ready for exciting new developments in the 21st century, such as e-learning. Key Benefits    Authentic audio material    Learn key Italian phrases and vocabulary suitable for everyday situations    Italian culture and customs explained