A new way to learn languages

A new world language-learning resource, Powerspeak Languages, is now available at Waynesboro Public Library.

Powerspeak Languages is a new online language learning course that uses a variety of methods to engage learners. The core languages available are Spanish, French, German, Mandarin Chinese, and English for ESL learners.

Each course uses a variety of multi-sensory activities to take full advantage of the brain’s ability to acquire language. Designed specifically for use by the diverse audience of library users, the courses include a combination of scored online activities, exercises, lessons and games.

Course lessons are bound together with rich graphics, audio, video, music and an intuitive way to check answers and track progress. Learners find a friendly structure that introduces vocabulary and are challenged to practice speaking and writing in a variety of interactive modules designed to simulate real conversations with native speakers.

Powerspeak Languages is the only language learning resource that uses a “virtual coach” – a knowledgeable, engaging speaker whose guidance explain the concepts for each lesson, offer encouragement and sharing interesting cultural notes about the language and its speakers.

“Language is one of the last barriers in today’s global marketplace,” said Zahir Mahmoud, Library Director. “We’re thrilled to have language-learning products available for our library. This will give our communitythe opportunity to learn a new language confidently and at their own pace.”

“This type of online language-learning program has been in demand among libraries for some time,” said Mahmoud. “We get many requests from library users who are interested in improving language skills, learning a new language for business, school, travel or simply interested in learning a foreign language for the pure joy of it. We are delighted to bring this new program to our library, providing the best and most engaging language-learning experience available.”

Powerspeak Languages can be found at www.waynesboro.va.us/library-helplinks.php.

For more information, please contact reference librarian, Mary Ann Hayden at 540-942-6746.