Chase away cabin fever this year by learning a new language with Mango, a free online language program from LaPorte County Public Library.
Mango offers more than 30 languages for English-speakers, and lessons in English for speakers of 15 other languages. It is easy and fun and can be used by all ages.
With Mango, you can go as fast or as slow as you like. Lessons focus on practical speaking skills so that you quickly acquire the ability to ask for directions, order a meal or get help. Each lesson is set up as a conversation, with strategically placed memory-building exercises to help you remember what you learn. Each lesson covers vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar and culture, focusing on the words and phrases that will be the most valuable in common, real-life situations.
Mango’s audio is recorded by professional native speaking voice talent, with two different pronunciations: fluent pronunciation, which is spoken at a normal conversational speed, and articulate pronunciation, which is spoken more slowly and enunciates each syllable. It also features a voice comparison tool that allows you to speak into your microphone to see a visual representation of your pronunciation compared to the narrator’s.
You can use this database anytime on the Internet with your library card barcode number and PIN. If you don’t have a library card, e-cards are available on the library’s website. Visit www.lapcat.org and click “databases” to get started! For more information, call the library at 219-362-6156.
