Read It!
Jim is learning a new language*. He is learning Spanish because it is a useful language. Jim is memorizing vocabulary* words. Flash cards can help him. He is also learning about the different words for “the” in Spanish. When words end with the letter* “a”, use the word “la.” When words end in other letters, use the word “el.”

Conversation A
(in the office)
Susie: Hey, Jim. You have a lot of books there.
Jim: Yes, I do. I’m learning a new language*.
Susie: Good for you! Which one?
Jim: I’m learning Spanish.
Susie: Why Spanish?
Jim: It’s a useful language. Many people speak it in the U.S.
Susie: That’s true. Is it hard to learn?
Jim: I don’t know yet. I just started learning it.

Conversation B
(in the studio)
Rob: What are you doing, Jim?
Jim: I’m learning Spanish. I’m trying to memorize some words.
Rob: Oh? What words?
Jim: I’m memorizing vocabulary* words.
Rob: When you learn a new language, you have to memorize a lot of words.
Jim: I know. It’s hard. I’m having some trouble.
Rob: Did you make flash cards?
Jim: No. Should I?
Rob: Yes. They can be very useful.

Conversation C
(in the Jungle Café)
Mark: Hey, Jim. How is the Spanish coming?
Jim: Just OK. I don’t understand some things.
Mark: Maybe I can help you.
Jim: Good! I have a question. “El” and “la” are two words for “the” in Spanish.
Mark: I know.
Jim: When do you use them?
Mark: When words end with the letter* “a,” use “la.” When words end in other letters, use “el.”
Jim: Thanks. That helps!

Answer it!
1. What language is Jim learning?
2. Do you like learning languages? Why or why not?