Best Language Classes In New York City
Traveling to a foreign country this summer? Been itching to learn another language? Whatever your reason may be, learning another language is always a good idea. Luckily, New York City is here to help you out. Check out these five places to learn foreign languages in the Big Apple.
Idlewild Books
12 W. 19th St.
New York, NY 10011
(212) 414-8888
www.idlewildbooks.com
Get the best of both worlds at Idlewild, a combination bookstore and language school. Shop around for that New York Times best seller you've been eyeing, and sign up for a Spanish, French, Italian, or German language class. All classes are eight weeks long and taught by native speakers. Idlewild is located both in Manhattan and Brooklyn, and most classes are taught in both locations, except for German classes, which are taught only at the Manhattan location. Visit the company's "Find Us" section, under the "Stores" tab online to find the location nearest you.
New York Public Library
Online Classes
www.nypl.org
If you have a New York Public Library card, you automatically have access to lesson plans for 38 languages. Simply sign in online with your library card bar code and pin number to access the Mango languages database. Then choose from various step-by-step ESL lessons for languages including French, German, Greek, Arabic, Mandarin, Brazilian, Russian, Vietnamese, and many more. For your convenience, you can also download the Mango Languages app for your smartphone.
Ukrainian Institute Of America
2 E. 79th St.
New York, NY 10075
(212) 288-8660
www.ukrainianinstitute.org
Learn Ukrainian at the Ukrainian Institute Of America, a gorgeous National Historic Landmark Building on the Upper East Side. Beginner, intermediate, and advanced Ukrainian classes are offered during both the spring and fall. Weekly classes are conveniently scheduled after work at 7 p.m., and last for 10 weeks. Class sizes are smaller, from five to 10 students per class, so that each student receives an adequate amount of instruction. For more information or to enroll, e-mail mail@ukrainianinstitute.org.
Rennert International Language School
211 E. 43rd St.
New York, NY 10017
(212) 867-8700
www.rennert.com
Learn a language (or two!) using the "communicative approach" method. The Rennert International Language School was founded in 1973 by former New York University faculty member Cesar Rennert, with a goal of using alternative teaching methods to teach languages. While still focusing on grammar, the "communicative approach" method also focuses on conversational exercises. Choose from small group classes with a cap of eight students per class, private and semi-private classes, organized group classes, corporate instruction classes, or study abroad classes. Languages offered include Arabic, Czech, French, German, Korean, Spanish and many more. Classes are offered year-round. While studying at Rennert, don't forget to join in on the school's events, where you can meet other language students.
City Speakeasy
226 W 37th St., 10th Floor
New York, NY 10018
(212) 520-2559
www.cityspeakeasy.com
Learn French or Spanish both inside and outside of the classroom! City Speakeasy offers 10 classes per session. Eight lessons are held in the classroom, while two are held outside of the classroom at a "social event." Social events vary from cooking classes and dancing to eating at a restaurant, wine tastings, and more, all depending on your class level. The goal is to be immersed in a real-life setting (and have fun while learning), so that you are more comfortable when speaking your chosen language outside of the classroom.
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Lanya Trypupenko is a freelance writer living in NYC and covering all things New York. She is a self-proclaimed shopaholic who is always on the lookout for the latest trends and deals. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
