In my opininon there are four basic steps to speak fluent in any language:
1. Buy a little notebook you can carry anywhere. Collect the most important words: nouns, verbs, adjectives. If you live among Turkish speakers, just ask the meaning of the words and terms you hear the most. You can also use online dictionary sources like Sesli Sözlük (http://seslisozluk.com/). If you click on the turkish flag next to the word you typed, you can actually listen to the pronunciation.
Every time you have a minute open your little notebook. Read some words out loud at least three times if it´s possible. Then try to memorize it and close the book. Repeat it with other words and mark the ones you remembered.
2. Learn the basic grammar. Do it with a book. There are lots of sources on the Internet, but the main thing you need to learn a language is a lead. Don´t forget it. You need a book or a good tutor for that. Don´t lose track. You need a native Turkish speaker who corrects your mistakes. Even if they don´t know English, you can get your ´homework´ checked. If you´re confused about the grammar the best way to learn is asking in forums or from somebody who speaks good English. Use the words from your little notebook (step 1) to practise.
3. Socialize. I am not talking about bars or events. Go to the market, talk to your in-laws. Once you open your mouth they would be more than happy to help you to finish your sentences. start to speak. Don´t be afraid of their questions. Turkish people like foreigners. They are going to ask where you are from, how old are you, do you like Turkey. They always compliment your Turkish, it doesn´t matter how broken it is. Before you start to socialize, you can practise situations in front of the mirror or write them down. If you´re still unsure about your Turkish, make somebody check these little conversations. The point of this is for you to speak
4. Find your confidence. You don´t have to know loads of words or perfect grammar to be fluent in a language. All you need is your confidence. You have to learn not to care about expectations of other people. Those don´t make you any good. Don´t get desperate if after a few months of learning you still don´t understand anything Turks are saying to you. It´s going to change. Sooner or later.
5. Read turkish text. The best are magazines with short articles and light subjects. They are easy to understand. After magazines, you can switch to newspapers and finally books. don´t forget about your little notebook (step 1).
Hope these things will help you. I plan to open an online Turkish Tutor page with professional teachers by the way, but I haven´t found an investor yet. If you know somebody, please let me know. Wink.
Have a nice day.
P.S. If you´re a native English speaker please correct the grammatical mistakes I have possibly committed in this post. Thank you.
I just can´t say that R besides that my Turkish is pretty good already.
- but while we are at it ....´four basic steps to speaking fluently´ would probably be even better!