Language Learning
Mission is all about
relationships and deep relationships cannot be fostered without
the ability to converse with the urban poor in their own
language. There are some steps you can take even before
you arrive on the field. To join Servants
you will need to
demonstrate significant prior language learning as an adult over
the course of at least three months or attend a language
learning course such as the six week Summer Institute of
Linguistics Language and
Culture Course.
One of the best books ever written on language learning is
called LAMP (Language Acquisition Made Practical) by Tom
and Betty-Sue Brewster. The basic idea is that successful
language learners learn a little and use it a lot. They
get what they need and practice it then use it in conversation
with actual people. The book is a highly recommended read
before arriving on the field. Here is an article written
by the authors that will give you a taste of their innovative
and effective language learning ideas.
Language is Communication is
Ministry (T&B Brewster)
