There are numerous ways in which a new language can be learned, with music and dance often being an immersive way in which learners can get to grips and begin to master vernacular and cultural components in an entirely new way.
Portuguese is one language that has become more and more popular, especially as it has had a huge cultural impact on the world through its use of song and dance, with the Samba renowned around the planet, especially when it is Carnival season!
While it is still possible to utilize Portuguese courses that are available online whenever you want and with the use of a native speaker as a tutor, there have been a plethora of options that students have resorted to in order to learn a new dialect that they may not already have a great understanding of.
As mentioned, Carnival is a widely popular festival and time of celebration for many, as they are able to let their hair down and relax, wear some extreme clothing or just sing and dance with their favorite Samba songs in mind. However, can these songs help you to learn the language and make you become a master of the Portuguese language?
Vocabulary Enrichment
Language is often considered to be all about the words that are used, and that is hardly a shock. Although there are various different types of communication, spoken word is usually the main form that is used. In order to do this effectively, individuals need to have an understanding of the vocabulary that is used.
Samba songs can give those who are looking to learn Portuguese are able to benefit greatly if they use these songs as a learning resource, with numerous idiomatic and other slang expressions often being used. While textbooks and other options may be great for basic dialect, the use of songs can provide individuals with everything they need in order to be “streetwise”. As learners continue to listen, they are likely to start to sing along, thus picking up the language without often realising that they are!
Syntax Adaptation
Syntax and sentence structure of any language is very important when it comes to trying to master it. If you do not have the right structure, it can be very difficult to communicate with locals as effectively as required or desired.
Samba songs can help a learner understand the formation of sentences and how certain words should appear when used, as they are able to analyze the lyrics that are used. If they read them, they will have a greater understanding of the Portuguese language and have a greater idea of what to expect.
Cultural Understanding
As mentioned, while samba songs will be able to give listeners a greater understanding or idea of how the vernacular side of the dialect should work and appear, learners will also be able to gain an insight into the various cultural aspects that learning a new dialect can often reveal.
If you take a closer look at what Samba songs are about, you will recognize that they are often about social and personal issues. These can help to shine a light on certain cultural issues that are being experienced or provide an insight into something that is considered to be normal daily life that students may not be aware of in their own. By understanding what is being sung, people can gain a greater appreciation for Portuguese culture, thus helping them to enjoy the language more.
Final Verdict
Although the media of song and dance is usually seen simply as an entertaining form, it may prove most educational in language learning. Such experience provides students with a good understanding of the words being used thus creating fun and excitement in one’s mind that could facilitate participation in Carnival.
