The Bottom Line
Go Italian is a good introductory Italian language course based on years of language acquisition research. The program consists of eight 30-minute listening and speaking lessons. Native Italian pronunciation is emphasized and grammar is integrated into the lessons rather than taught separately.
Go Italian isn't a rote memorization course where you'll learn how to ask for a hotel room but is an introduction to actually speaking Italian. This is a good program for those who may wish to continue with Italian studies.
Pros
- Teaches Correct Pronunciation
- Lessons on CDs, requires no book work
- Lessons take only 30 minutes each
- Lessons based on Language Acquisition Research
Cons
- Language taught is formal
Description
- Introductory Italian course - first eight units of Pimsleur Comprehensive Italian Level 1.
- Eight 30-minute audio lessons that require listening and speaking only and an optional book for reading practice.
- Native Italian pronunciation and fluency emphasized.
- Grammar is integrated into the lessons along with building vocabulary.
- Well researched program that uses language acquisition techniques.
Guide Review - Go Italian - Pimsleur Language Learning Program Review
Go Italian consists of eight 30-minute listening and speaking lessons developed using extensive research by Doctor Pimsleur. Native Italian pronunciation and fluency is emphasized and grammar is integrated into the lessons rather than taught separately. Lessons are presented in optimal learning times and vocabulary is repeated often enough to be retained.
A few years ago I took an advanced Italian class in the US. While many students knew lots of vocabulary or had great grammar skills, they would have a hard time being understood in Italy because they spoke so slowly. These students had lots of book learning but without emphasis on good pronunciation and speaking fluency. Go Italian is a good start because you'll actually learn to speak so that you can be understood in Italy.
Go Italian is a good introduction to Italian and gives the learner a good base upon which to build. Learners who wish to study Italian in Italy or continue with a Pimsleur course will benefit from this program.
