Book Description
Legacies is an anthology for literature for composition courses that is thematically organized with abundant rhetoric, composition, and argument coverage. Themes outside the usual selections such as "The Heroic Journey" are included as are themes arranged by cluster within the units. Thematic previews at the beginning of each chapter cover al of the genres and show how selections can be studied within the context of the various genres. Each chapter offers a model student essay such as thematic analysis and explication.
Customer Reviews:
College textbook price-gouging going on here........2005-12-04
$67 for a paperback book is highway roberry.
Have been pricing out college textbooks on Ebay, Amazon, and the college bookstore. It's a bloody medieval guild these publishers have going here and professors who insist on the latest editions of texts are aiding and abetting the rip-off.
This is monopolisitic practice if I've ever seen it. If the industry doesn't rachet down this greed-fest, someone else will - and as far as I'm concerned, it can't happen too quickly. Shame on you all.
Here is what counts.......2000-08-24
I am an affectionate critic of "Legacies," as both editors were teachers of mine and many of the contributors were co-teachers with me in the mid-1990s. Regardless, I used the book for several years and the results speak volumes.
This is a college literature/composition reader that tries to do it all -- and succeeds. For its hefty heft, one must acknowledge that each lesson plan (day-to-day lesson plans handed happily to you by real teachers, talented teachers) belongs here. I used many of them before they were "lesson plans" -- they engage and involve students.
Whether you are a reader/student simply looking for a great resource of singular texts or a college literature professor/adjunct composition instructor searching for sure-fire ways of directing your students away from the window and towards what counts -- "Legacies" is the book.
Product Description
This book is in excellent condition, no marks and with infotrac (FREE 4 month online subscription)still intact and unused.
Customer Reviews:
Good Resource.......2007-07-03
I brought this book to study for the PHR exam and to have as a resource. I self-studied for the exam with this book and the PHR/SPHR Professional in Human Resources Certification. I recommend them both. It is laid out really well - with good charts, examples, and listing many websites to use for resources. I also like that the terms and definitions were listed in bold on this side of the pages. It is a good resource to have at the office.
Excellent one-stop resource.......2006-07-11
There's a reason this book is a standard in the field. It explains both fact and theory, in just enough depth, to support HR generalist efforts. The current edition -- for those of us who haven't seen the inside of a school for quite a few years -- features on-line resources that are particularly useful in work situations. Call it a textbook for OJT.
College Book.......2006-07-05
This book was delivered before the expected due date and was in great condition and a lot cheaper than the college book stores.
Read it for school.......2006-05-05
I (had to) read this book for school and it was definately worth my time. Working in a small (7 person) office, we had been lagging behind on HR knowledge. Having the resources this book provides within reach has helped us immensely. Highly recommended!
Worth the read.......2006-04-06
This book is worth the read. I use it as a desk reference for personnel issues.
Product Description
Whatever It Takes: How Professional Learning Communities Respond When Kids Don t Learn examines the question, What happens when, despite our best efforts in the classroom, a student does not learn? . A professional learning community creates a school-wide system of interventions that provides all students with additional time and support when they experience difficulty in their learning. The authors describe the systems of interventions, including Adlai E. Stevenson High School s Pyramid of Interventions, created by a high school, a middle school, and two elementary schools. The authors also discuss the logistical barriers these schools faced and their strategies for overcoming them.
Customer Reviews:
"Blame the Teachers!" says this book.......2007-09-15
The book has some good points (maybe one and a half stars), but it was difficult to read it due to my eyes rolling at every other sentence.
To James O'Keefe: Right on! I totally agree 100%. You need to write a book! (It might be difficult to get it published though, considering the PLCC has probably got a stronghold on all educational publishing.) Teamwork is great and definitely has its place. But this book is talking about much more than teamwork. It's talking about placing 100% of the blame on teachers and principals. What about the parents? What about the student who won't even try to learn?
Regarding what another reviewer wrote: Well, two comments: First of all, it's funny you mentioned Koolade in your review. Speaking of Koolade: Don't drink it! Too many people already have! (If you don't know what I'm talking about, I suggest you read up on the modern history of cults.) Secondly, speaking of water fountains, I have this to say: You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink it.
One more thing about this book: The authors compare certain teachers (ones who believe in the "horse" metaphor above), to Pontius Pilate. You know, the guy who literally ordered Jesus to be crucified. All I can say is this: I'm a teacher at a low socio-economic school, I work 50-60 hours a week, I get along with my colleagues and students, and yet I do believe in the horse metaphor. The Pontius Pilate metaphor is just a bunch of, well, to put it in educated words, insulting, ridiculous, abusive slander to the teachers and principals who work so hard every single day.
Should have been an essay........2007-08-06
Basic ideas are sound, but I think nothing ground-breaking. I felt that each chapter could have been shortened into a paragraph or two. At most, this should have been an essay. Based on the way the book was written, I got the feeling that the authors were trying to influence the reader much the same way as a cult would try to brainwash a prospective member. While I agree that teachers should teach children to learn, I feel that the student will be in trouble upon graduation as the system of support will be gone. They will have to perform or fail... period. I felt the book to be too wordy, too preachy, too liberal... did I say too wordy?
Dragged Towards the End.......2007-05-30
I haven't finished this book yet. I found the beginning useful and read it on recommendation of a former principal. There is a lot of talk about secondary schools.
Educational Professionals and Parents Take Heed!!.......2007-05-13
This is an outstanding, must read book for all professional educators (K-12). This book adroitly points out how public (and private) education needs to address and fix what is wrong with our educational system today. While we have moved into a new century education has not. This book is showing us the way to be successful and competitive in the world around us. It is a guide book that school boards, superintendents, principals, counselors, teachers, and parents need to embrace because it is about the LEARNING not about covering a subject that allows our students (our greatest treasure and asset) to fall through cracks of an antiquated system. As a professional educator of thirty-five years, I whole heartedly recommend that you read this book.
Great ideas.......2007-05-13
There are some great ideas in this book to help at-risk, low-achieving students. I look forward to implementing some of them!
Average customer rating:
- Grest Book
- Good Book
- highly recommended!!
- not only for teens!
- P-E-R-F-E-C-T!!!
|
The 7 Habits Of Highly Effective Teens
Sean Covey
Manufacturer: Fireside
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 Family Life
| People & Places
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
| Adoption
| General
| Marriage & Divorce
| Multigenerational
| New Baby
| New Experiences
| Orphans & Foster Homes
| Parents
| Siblings
| Stepfamilies
General
| Health, Mind & Body
| Teens
| Subjects
| Books
Mental Health
| Health, Mind & Body
| Teens
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Social Issues
| Teens
| Subjects
| Books
Inspirational
| Religion & Spirituality
| Teens
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Self-Help
| Health, Mind & Body
| Subjects
| Books
Motivational
| Self-Help
| Health, Mind & Body
| Subjects
| Books
Success
| Self-Help
| Health, Mind & Body
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Psychology & Counseling
| Health, Mind & Body
| Subjects
| Books
Ethics & Morality
| Philosophy
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Social Sciences
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
Teenagers
| Parenting
| Parenting & Families
| Subjects
| Books
Look Inside Children's Books
| Trip
| Specialty Stores
| Books
Look Inside Health Books
| Trip
| Specialty Stores
| Books
Look Inside Nonfiction Books
| Trip
| Specialty Stores
| Books
Look Inside Parenting Books
| Trip
| Specialty Stores
| Books
Look Inside Teen Books
| Trip
| Specialty Stores
| Books
Similar Items:
-
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens
-
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens Personal Workbook
-
The 6 Most Important Decisions You'll Ever Make: A Guide for Teens
-
Don't Sweat The Small Stuff For Teens
-
Daily Reflections For Highly Effective Teens
ASIN: 0684856093 |
Amazon.com
Based on his father's bestselling The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Sean Covey applies the same principles to teens, using a vivacious, entertaining style. To keep it fun, Covey writes, he "stuffed it full of cartoons, clever ideas, great quotes, and incredible stories about real teens from all over the world... along with a few other surprises." Did he ever! Flip open to any page and become instantly absorbed in real-life stories of teens who have overcome obstacles to succeed, and step-by-step guides to shifting paradigms, building equity in "relationship bank accounts," creating action plans, and much more.
As a self-acknowledged guinea pig for many of his dad's theories, Sean Covey is a living example of someone who has taken each of the seven habits to heart: be proactive; begin with the end in mind; put first things first; think win-win; seek first to understand, then to be understood; synergize; and sharpen the saw. He includes a comical section titled "The 7 Habits of Highly Defective Teens," which includes some, shall we say, counterproductive practices: put first things last; don't cooperate; seek first to talk, then pretend to listen; wear yourself out... Covey's humorous and up-front style is just light enough to be acceptable to wary teenagers, and down-and-dirty enough to really make a difference. (Ages 13 and older) --Emilie Coulter
Book Description
Being a teenager is both wonderful and challenging. In The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens, author Sean Covey applies the timeless principles of the 7 Habits to teens and the tough issues and life-changing decisions they face. In an entertaining style, Covey provides a step-by-step guide to help teens improve self-image, build friendships, resist peer pressure, achieve their goals, get along with their parents, and much more. In addition, this book is stuffed with cartoons, clever ideas, great quotes, and incredible stories about real teens from all over the world. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens will engage teenagers unlike any other book.
An indispensable book for teens, as well as parents, grandparents, and any adult who influences young people, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens is destined to become the last word on surviving and thriving as a teen and beyond.
Customer Reviews:
Grest Book.......2007-09-12
This book is excellent to guide your children on the right path of life at an early age.
Good Book.......2007-09-02
The book was fine, after I ordered it from Books A Million. I had ordered it from Amazon's vendor "Warehouse Deals", and after waiting two weeks with no book and no response to my questions to "Warehouse Deals" I ordered from Books A Million. On their behalf Amazon did credit my account. Still have not had a response from the seller(?).
highly recommended!!.......2007-08-26
I actually bought this book for myself when I was 25 years old. I didn't buy it for a teenaged brother or a daughter. It was purely for myself. I had read Stephen Covey's "7 Habits..." when I was in college and was very inspired by the book but decided to buy this book just to check it out. It looked like a fun read and I was curious to know what Stephen's son had to say about the habits. As mentioned in other reviews, both books have exactly the same ideas except Sean's book presents the ideas in a much simpler form (without losing the essense). I think the simplicity of Sean's book actually enhances the message being communicated. And now, although I still have Stephen Covey's book, I refer back to Sean Covey's book instead when I want a refresher. I highly recommend this book to adults who are looking for inspirational self-help books. I am going out to buy Sean's other book which seem to be receiving higher acclaim. Cheers.
not only for teens!.......2007-08-20
I recommend this book for young adults too.The simple, no-nonsense approach of Sean Covey makes this book an easy read. There's no useless psychobabble in this book unlike other self-help books.
P-E-R-F-E-C-T!!!.......2007-08-20
Another bestseller which I love and recommend you - How to be a Super Hot Woman: 339 Tips to Make Every Man Fall in Love with You and Every Woman Envy You
Fantastic books!
Book Description
For decades indispensable, the AMA Manual of Style continues to provide editorial support to the medical and scientific publishing community. Since the 1998 publication of the 9th edition, however, the world of medical publishing has rapidly modernized, and the intersection of research and publishing has become ever more complex. The 10th edition of the AMA Manual of Style, published in early 2007, brings this definitive manual into the 21st century with a broadened international perspective. In doing so, the 10th edition has expanded its electronic guidelines, with the understanding that authors now routinely submit articles through online systems and often cite Web-only content. Ethical and legal issues receive increased attention, with detailed guidelines on authorship, conflicts of interest, scientific misconduct, intellectual property, and the protection of individuals' rights in scientific research and publication. The new edition examines research ethics and editorial independence and features new material on indexing and searching as well as medical nomenclature. JAMA and the Archives Journals, one of the most groups of medical publications in the world, have lent members of their expert staff of professional journal editors to the committee that has produced this edition. Extensively peer-reviewed, the 10th edition provides a welcome and improved standard for the growing international medical community. More than a style manual, this 10th edition offers invaluable guidance on how to navigate the dilemmas that authors and researchers and their institutions, medical editors and publishers, and members of the news media who cover scientific research confront in a society that has thrust these issues center stage.
Customer Reviews:
Worth the Wait.......2007-05-09
I've been waiting for this book since becoming a medical editor 3 years ago. It is completely updated for modern-day medical communications and now includes extensive sections with Internet-related information. I use it nearly every day and absolutely love it.
At long last, the go-to guide for medical writers and editors is revised.......2007-04-17
At long last, the 10th Edition of the AMA Manual of Style is finally available, and I am happy to say it was worth the wait. As an editor who has worked in medical journals, scientific Web sites, and an agency specializing in pharmaceutical advertising, I found the 9th edition to be, at times, a bit dated and not as easy to navigate as I would have hoped. Most of those problems have been resolved in the 10th edition, as well as the inclusion of some new information that I didn't even know I was missing until I found.
The following is a list of changes in the new edition of the style guide that I found particularly helpful and relevant, and will hopefully be a quick go-to guide when you're debating whether to buy the new version or hold fast to the 9th edition.
- The section on Correct and Preferred Usage has moved from Chapter 9 to Chapter 11 and includes a wealth of information that was not in the previous edition. There is more information about the difference between race and ethnicity and when it's relevant to include sexual orientation in a scientific manuscript.
- An extended section on electronic references (3.15, 63-72). This new info is highly relevant considering since 1998 (when the 9th edition was released) there have been a number of innovations with the Internet and a number of authors choose to use the Web as sources of information.
- The section on manuscript preparation is vastly improved and expanded (Ch 4). It includes more information on the different types of tables and figures as well as new guidelines for the use of symbols and footnotes.
- Of particular interest to journal editors, there is more information on authorship requirements, conflicts of interest, sources of funding, and copyright and permissions basics (Ch 5).
- The section on capitalization demonstrates that, not only can the AMA editors laugh at themselves, but that they're also familiar with the lyrics of Coolio (eg, There is no party like a West Coast party because a West Coast party doesn't stop. 10.3, 375). The section on capitalization also includes newer terms like iBook and eBay that are more relevant to modern writing (10.8, 380).
- In terms of grammar, some of the rules that always give editors trouble are more explicitly outlined and in more detail. There's a longer section on the use of that and which (7.2, 318), which I still have to look up occasionally. A final ruling on the health care vs healthcare debate (always 2 words, per AMA, 11.1, 395). And more specific rules on false/parenthetical plurals and sentences with compound subjects (7.8)
- A change in the use of states in references. All will use postal codes now, instead of the former abbreviations (14.5, 451-455).
- An expanded section on international currency (18.5.12, 817-819).
- The section on terminology has been expanded to include information about different specialties, including psychiatry, ophthalmology, and obstetrics (Ch 15). This section also includes a new chart with human viruses that is expanded and easier to navigate (15.14.3, 762-767).
- There is a more comprehensive copyediting section, including information on editing numerical information (21.1, 907; 23.1, 929-933).
- And finally, and most importantly for all newer medical editors and writing, there is a more informative resources guide with professional organizations aimed at scientific writers and editors as well as grammar and editing resources (25, 967-976).
As a whole, I'm very pleased with the new edition of the AMA style guide, and can't wait to incorporate the new changes into my own work.
Book Description
Comprehensive Spanish (L.A.) I includes 30 lessons of essential grammar and vocabulary -- 16 hours of real-life spoken practice sessions -- plus an introduction to reading.
Upon completion of this
Level I program, you will have functional spoken proficiency with the most-frequently-used vocabulary and grammatical structures. You will be able to:
* initiate and maintain face-to-face conversations,
* deal with every day situations -- ask for information, directions, and give basic information about yourself and family,
* communicate basic information on informal topics and participate in casual conversations,
* avoid basic cultural errors and handle minimum courtesy and travel requirements,
* satisfy personal needs and limited social demands,
* establish rapport with strangers in foreign countries,
* begin reading and sounding out items with native-like pronunciation.
Customer Reviews:
Quick learn!.......2007-09-17
I bought this to bone up on whatever Spanish I could before taking a trip to South America. I learned quite a bit in a short period of time, enough to get by.
5 stars for the product, not the format.......2007-08-07
I share the collective view that using Pimsleur is the best first step/giant leap into learning a language. I was surprised by how much I retained after this one course and by my level of confidence in the Spanish language. In addition, I feel very enthusiastic about heading into Pimsleur Spanish 2 (con mucho gusto). While it does not offer a plethora of vocabulary, if it did, it would miss the point of Pimsleur's teaching style. As someone who took four years of French in high school, I would say, this course gives the grammatical equivalent of the first year in only a month's worth of passive learning. WOW!
That being stated, DON'T BUY THE CDs. You will only waste your money. I would suggest going on eBay and looking for Audiofy's Pimsleur Chips which plug into your laptop and even more importantly allow you to upload the program into your MP3 player. Again, WOW! Also, I spent about $300 for THE ENTIRE COURSE (I, II, III, and Plus) on eBay versus spending $200 just for Spanish I.
this deserves 100 stars.......2007-04-08
I am at the end of this course. I can talk with people who only speak Spanish and get along at a basic level. I can discuss basic ,daily things like eating, going to the bathroom etc.
I will say that I really listen alot . I enjoy it so it does not seem like work to me.
However, the upshot is that I love,love ,love this program and I am amazed at how I can communicate.
I wanted to pass this along,as I rely on other's opinions when I decide what to buy. It saves me alot of time and money
Not Just For Gringos, Pimsleur Even Taught This Mexican-American how to speak Spanish.......2007-03-08
I have completed all of the Spanish lessons in the Pimsleur series.
I am one of those rare Latinos that did not learn Spanish from my parents. My Mexican parents felt that it would be easier to "assimilate" if I only spoke English. After going to my grandparents' s home for holidays and being the only one there that did not speak Spanish, and after having Latino strangers speak to me in Spanish and then look at me in astonishment when I told them I didn't know Spanish, I felt that it was time for me to learn how to speak my language.
The Pimsleur series has really helped me to learn Spanish. Although the course did not teach me much a great deal of vocabulary, it has taught me concepts. By teaching me concepts, I have really retained the material. Not only have I retained what I have learned, but by learning concepts, I am able to take my own thoughts and form sentences.
The only downside of this course is that the vocabulary is not the same Spanish words that are most commonly used by Mexicans in regular conversation. Pimsleur vocabulary is a little more formal. We say "mucho gusto" but Pimsleur teaches "encantado." The entire series also does not cover too much vocabulary. For learning conversational Spanish I recommend Learning Spanish Like Crazy over any other course. You will also learn a lot more vocabulary with Learning Spanish Like Crazy than you will with this entire series. LSLC is also the course that has probably me helped me the most in my journey to learn my language. After finishing the entire Pimsleur series and Learning Spanish Like Crazy Level 1 and 2, I am now doing Rosetta Stone Spanish. But if you want to grasp concepts in Spanish and retain those concepts, then Pimsleur Spanish will really help you.
False Sense Of Security.......2007-01-20
I went through all three levels of Pimsleur and had it all down pat. Man! I was sure I would be able to go out and just jabber away like gangbusters once I was put into a situation where I had to speak. Well, the first time a native speaker started yapping at me I realized that I really had no clue what the hell I was doing and that three levels of Pimsleur were woefully inadequate. You WILL NOT be able to do anything more than communicate at a very basic level and anything approaching a "real" conversation will not be possible. For that, you will need much, much more.
Book Description
At last a Spanish CD course which requires no reading and which teaches you to actually speak Spanish in a minimum of time and effort. The course also comes complete with a complete 207 page illustrated text with tapescript, same page answer keys and English translations for home review. Designed by the experts at Language Dynamics, 'Behind The Wheel Spanish For Your Car' takes the learner form basic to intermediate level Spanish without the guesswork and pain usually associated with language learning. An expert English speaking instructor talks you through these tapes in English while a trained professional native Latin American Spanish speaker teaches you Spanish the way it is really spoken.
Behind The Wheel Spanish For Your Car is the ideal way to learn Spanish while you drive because there is no confusion, no reading, no looking up meanings, and no guessing. It's all on the tapes. Use your commute time to effectively learn Spanish with this delightful course whose method will have you speaking your first words in Spanish within minutes of receiving your course, and enjoying it.
Customer Reviews:
review cd.......2007-10-01
I spend a lot of time in my car and now I can do someting productive while I sit in traffic.
Behind the Wheel Spanish.......2007-09-30
This is a detailed product that has made it easier for me to learn Spanish than what I have experienced through either formal classes or other products. I would recommend it to my friends.
Fun and Powerful.......2007-07-15
This course is a powerhouse course for learning spanish. So much useful vocabulary and conversational skills are covered in this course it is mind blowing. Mark's strategy is to use variable repetition to build a solid base on which to learn spanish and that magic is working on me. Mark has a solid sense of which words, phrases, sentence structures etc. are most used by english and spanish speaking folks alike, and he pounds them home till they become second nature.
It's all here, not just sentence building, but how to say the time, the days of the week, count into the millions, talk about the weather and a million other daily kinds of stuff humans around the world talk about or use in thier language on a daily basis.
Mark has made an excellent tool for learning Spanish available, it is now up me, the learner, to decide how far and how fast I want to utilize it.
In such a short while I am speaking in rudimentary ways to my Spanish friends, and they are stunned at my progress knowing that -truly- the extent of my Spanish was "adios" before beginning this course.
I hope that helps some of you decide.
all the best
Extremely Helpful.......2007-07-09
I am engaged to a Spanish man, who's entire family speaks Spanish most of the time. Using this program has really helped me get started on learning the language. Now when I am at family gatherings, I find myself understanding the gist of the conversations going on. I haven't finished the program yet, but I recommend this to anyone who wants to learn Spanish and has a long commute to work or spends a lot of time on the road.
Very Pleased!.......2007-07-04
I'm still on disk 1, but so far can say that I am well pleased. Pronunciation is clear and the lessons are very easy to follow. I'm looking forward to learning more spanish with these lessons.
Book Description
Comprehensive German I includes 30 lessons of essential grammar and vocabulary -- 16 hours of real-life spoken practice sessions -- plus an introduction to reading.
Customer Reviews:
Good for practicing.......2007-09-24
This course will only teach you to speak German, NOT to write or read. It contains only CDs to hear german, you will repeat when instructed to. That is it.
Even the "brain challanged" can use Pimsleur.......2007-07-03
I'm more than 20% through my lessons. Based on my experience, I have ordered level 2. Due to my own unique brain wiring, I cannot report "getting it" in one session, lasting about 1/2 hour. I can say that listening to a lesson for 2-3 days, it works. More than I can say for other methods...
easy way to learn.......2007-04-02
I've been really enjoying working my way through the series. The frequent reviews of previously covered material really do help keep it all in mind.
The best learning language software.......2007-03-04
I'vee been learning German for about 6 months and besides Pimsleur I have used Rosetta Stone, Rocket Languages, and have taken private instruction. Obviously, private instruction is best. But this review is about software, and Pimsleur is best. But Rosetta Stone has more bells & whistles, which is perhaps why people think it is so good. But it isn't. For example, nowhere in Rosetta Stone do you actually learn how to say useful things. Nowhere do you learn how to say "Hello," "How are you, "What's your name," or even "Where's the bathroom." Instead, you will learn how to recognize a phrase such as "The woman and the boy have a ball on their heads" or "The man is under the donkey." Ridiculous!! And note I said "learn how to recognize a phrase." This is the biggest weakness and disappointment with Rosetta Stone. It really doesn't get you to talk. You see four pictures, and the speaker will say (in German) "The boy is drinking milk." Now, if you have already heard the word for "boy" (Junge) and three of the pictures have no boys, you simply click on the picture with the boy and presto, you're correct! This multiple choice way of learning is not effective for learning a language!
With Pimsleur, which is an audio only program, you hear conversations that will impart essential words, phrases and concepts. And they are repeated (and asks you to repeat) in such a fashion that it sticks. For example, it was weeks ago that it introduced "How much do I owe you?" yet I still remember it. (Wie viel shulde ich Ihnen?--No, I didn't cheat and look it up!) Pimsleur is brilliant in the way it gradually builds your knowledge and abilities. Of course, it isn't perfect as it doesn't explain the grammar. But neither does Rosetta Stone. That's why software language learning programs should be seen as supplements--supplements to classroom or private instruction. However, if you want to go exclusively with a software program--get Pimsleur. With Rosetta Stone, you won't even learn how to ask for something to eat or drink, or where the bathroom is, or even how to say Hello!
So how exactly does Pimsleur work? For a technical explanation you could Google Pimsleur and get a better answer than I could give. But here's what you get: each level (I bough the whole package: Levels 1,2,3 and a bonus 4th level) contains 30 half-hour lessons, except the bonus level, which I think has 10. You do each lesson until you feel comfortable going to the next (you are told that you do not need to master each lesson; if you feel that you can do 80% of what the lesson asks of you, it is time to move on). I think this 80% rule is smart--you don't expect yourself to be perfect, so you don't get bogged down. I found that I do each lesson twice, and on occasion have done a lesson three times. What does the lesson ask of you? The lesson typically starts with a very short conversation spoken by two Germans, then breaks it down. All the time you are repeating things--an English speaker guides you along the way, and eventually a German speaker will ask you to do things, but the English speaker is always around to clarify something new or explain a nuance. And then the lesson goes beyond the initial conversation and introduces new words, phrases, and concepts, sometime adding to what you've learned before, sometimes reinforcing what you've learned before: It mixes it up in a way that keeps your interest, so it doesn't become rote. There is a good balance between English and German spoken on the lessons, unlike Rocket Languages where there is way too much English spoken with cutesy-pie encouragement. Even the little things Pimlseur does well. For example, instead of endlessly repeating numbers in order to teach numbers, you'll learn the numbers in context, such as learning how how to say "Give me ten Euros." I found that this is far more effective than just trying to memorize words.
Of course, a software program is a supplement. Pimsleur will definitely get you speaking, and maybe even enough to get around on a trip to Germany. But if you're seriously interested in studying a language, it's not enough. For example, it's left a mystery why a word has certain endings in one context or another. It takes a textbook or a teacher to explain the German cases. (For example, my mother = meine Mutter, with my mother = mit meiner Mutter). All Pimsleur will do is have you note the different sound: meine, meiner. It doesn't explain why.
Note: I purchased a download, not the CD's.
The best way learn German.......2007-03-01
I've been trying for years to become semi fluent in German. All of my previous efforts have gone down in flames. The Pimsleur series is fantastic. You learn the language by speaking the language. Complex grammár becomes second nature. I'm halfway through the Second part of the course. I've been working on it during my commute to work. Makes the commute almost bearable. I'll be going to Berlin in a couple of weeks. Feel as though I'll be able to communicate reasonably well.
You won't get a huge vocabulary using the Pimsleur method. But, what you do learn will become part of you. You will know how to use the words in complex sentences. You will know how to use similar words as you learn them. You will learn practical words that can be used in everyday conversations.
The series of lessons is not cheap. However, 'the Pinsleur series is worth every penny. Buy it!
Book Description
With Pimsleur Language Programs you don't just study a language, you learn it -- the same way you mastered English! And because the technique relies on interactive spoken language training, the Pimsleur Language Programs are totally audio -- no book is needed!
The Pimsleur programs provide a method of self-practice with an expert teacher and native speakers in lessons specially designed to work with the way the mind naturally acquires language information. The various components of language -- vocabulary, pronunciation and grammar -- are all learned together without rote memorization and drills. Using a unique method of memory recall developed by renowned linguist, Dr. Paul Pimsleur, the programs teach listeners to combine words and phrases to express themselves the way native speakers do. By listening and responding to thirty minute recorded lessons, students easily and effectively achieve spoken proficiency.
No other language program or school is as quick, convenient, and effective as the Pimsleur Language Programs.
The Comprehensive Program is the ultimate in spoken language learning. For those who want to become proficient in the language of their choice, the Comprehensive programs go beyond the Basic Programs to offer spoken-language fluency. Using the same simple method of interactive self-practice with native speakers, these comprehensive programs provide a complete language learning course. The Comprehensive Program is available in a wide variety of languages and runs through three levels (thirty lessons each) in French, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian and Spanish. At the end of a full Comprehensive Program listeners will be conducting complete conversations and be well on their way to mastering the language. The Comprehensive Programs are all available on cassettes and are also on CD in the six languages in which we offer the Basic Program on CD.
Customer Reviews:
About the accent.......2007-08-17
I am huge fan of Pimsleur cds and have used them in German, Italian, and Greek, as well as Mandarin. I agree with all of the generally favorable reviews here but I will add my experience of the accent. I spent a week in Beijing using Mandarin in taxis, and most especially each morning to get breakfast in neighborhood shops where no English was spoken (I *highly* recommend doing this for the food, the experience, the language practice, and the chance to see how local people actually approach their food).
Not one person I met used the extreme Beijing accent I had learned from Pimsleur. I *always* got better results when I tried to use the more moderate accent from the (Shanghai based) Chinesepod.
For example, no one said "ee dee-ar" for "a little bit." Everyone said "ee dee-an." And this was in Beijing.
In hindsight I would still approach Mandarin by mostly using Pimsleur. But the accent caused me trouble until I caught on that it was a problem.
Mandarin I.......2007-05-20
I work along side native born Mandarin journalists every day. I have tried many CDs and have taken basic Mandarin classes too. The Pimsleur CDs are the best hands down. Sure they are a bit expensive but spend the money. Otherwise, you will spend much more on others that are not easy or practical. Check your local library and get a feel for what's out there first. These are designed for beginners and are very useful in everyday conversation. After practcing with these discs, I have been told that my pronunciation is perfect. And that came from visitors from Beijing. If you want to learn basic Mandarin, buy these discs. You will not be dissapointed. Xie Xie Ni Pimsleur.
Wonderful!.......2007-05-08
Chinese is tough. This is by far the best method I have used to attempt to actually speak it. And one develops a perfect accent using this! If you must learn to speak Chinese, get this or get the one with only the first half of the lessons as it costs a whole lot less (under $50). You will amaze your Chinese friends when you blurt out a sentence without an accent (or, to be more correct, with a Beijing accent.)
Great but one major flaw.......2007-04-19
This is a wonderful course and I won't repeat what many people have already said... but what makes this course very difficult to follow is that they didn't add the pinyin and Chinese characters in a book. A book following the dialogue would have made it so much easier to follow and understand.
If you have access to a chinese speaker who is willing to sit with you through the entire course and help you write down the dialogues then Pimsleur's Mandarin will help you very much. Otherwise you will have to struggle more than is necessary to get the most out of these CDs.
Excellent way to learn Chinese.......2007-02-08
This is an excellent way to begin speaking Chinese, which isn't as formidable as you might think! My Chinese speaking friend, however, is amused that they teach the Beijing accent, which includes the 'r' sound at the end of words. This sound is not part of the standardized forms of Mandarin. He says that while people across China will understand the dialect you have learned, people in other parts of the country will say some words differently -- making it hard for you to understand them.
Book Description
Comprehensive Italian I includes 30 lessons of essential grammar and vocabulary -- 16 hours of real-life spoken practice sessions -- plus an introduction to reading.
Customer Reviews:
Nice program.......2007-10-04
I am currently in the middle of Pimsleur Italian II and am thrilled with all I have learned. I spent a lot of time and money in college German classes and cannot say or understand much of anything in German. In comparison, Pimsleur seems cheap.
I have a long commute to work, and studying Italian has made the drive much more enjoyable. I also think I am a better and less stressed-out driver because I have something to focus on in the car other than what other drivers are doing.
As other reviewers have pointed out, it's good to get a grammar book and other supplemental materials. Also, I check out Yahoo Italia and other Italian websites to help work on my reading skills. It's really exciting to feel like I am finally learning a foreign language!
Too Little Vocabulary, Too Rigid. Better Courses Available........2007-09-20
Pimsleur Italian is typical of other Pimsleur courses I have purchased.
Expensive, rigid, and for the money, you get very little vocabulary.
I am much more impressed with Behind the Wheel Italian Revised by Language Dynamics. Much more solid approach, more vocabulary, sentence building with originality and a complete text.Behind the Wheel Italian 1 Revised/Complete 226 Page Illustrated Text & Audioscript/Answer Keys/6 One Hour Multi-Track Audio CDs
Excellent Program for all ages and talents!.......2007-09-10
My friend and I went in on buying this together since we'll both be traveling to Italy next summer (if you can find someone to split the cost with, be sure to do it!)
I've always had a "knack" for learning languages (this is my fourth language) and I found the program to move at a comfortable speed with lots of reinforcements (which is very important!)
My friend had more trepidations about learning a language, she's got a speech impediment and flunked her French class in high school. But she found the program to be very helpful too! She had to do a few of the lessons over before moving on, but at the end of the 30 lessons, WE BOTH TEST INTO 2nd YEAR ITALIAN! We took the free aptitude test at the local college and we both know as much as a student after a full year of college-level Italian.
Her 12 year old son recently started the program, and he's doing well with it (probably better than either of us actually haha). It's keeping his interest, and he's able to have simple conversations and make up his own sentences after only 6 lessons. So, the program isn't just for grown-ups.
It's true that the course is only audio, but after 15 lessons or so, look up the spelling rules for Italian and you'll see that spelling and reading is a breeze since it's so phonetic.
We're saving up to get the next two levels now and looking forward to being able to competently converse with Italians this summer.
fun.......2007-07-24
Obviously oriented toward men on the prowl, this is nevertheless a fun/ny way to learn a language. It is focused on learning conversation, such as beginning with "hello." Many of the scenarios are focused on a man picking-up a woman, sometimes aggressively/annoyingly so, but stops short of asking her to go to bed. In the scenarios, at least the woman frequently holds her own. I wouldn't consider this as an only source in learning a language, but it does help you to communicate quickly.
Best Language Method I've Ever Used.......2007-04-18
I am a language enthusiast, and I have shelves full of various language CDs, cassettes, and books. This is my first experience with the Pimsleur product (the price had kept me away from it until now). This is, by far, the best language product that I have ever used, and I consider my money very well spent. The pace of the lessons is perfect -- not too fast, but not too boring; you can very reasonably progress from one lesson to the next a day at a time.
For learning Italian, my wife and I tried a community college class and two other audio CD products. None of them approached the quality and effectiveness of these CDs (we actually stopped going to the community college class after a couple classes so we could focus on the CDs). My wife is not by any stretch a language enthusiast like I am, and she found the other classes and CDs to be extremely boring. However, she is really enjoying and learning a lot with the Pimsleur Italian I series. We have Italian II on order now. :-)
Books:
- Leica M: Advanced Photo School (A Lark Photography Book)
- Leonardo's Notebooks
- Lonely Planet the Travel Book: A Journey Through Every Country in the World
- Magic Lantern Guides: Nikon AF Speedlight Flash System: Master the Creative Lighting System! (A Lark Photography Book)
- Man Ray: 1890-1976 (Photobook)
- Master Lighting Guide for Portrait Photographers
- Mastering Digital Nude Photography: The Serious Photographer's Guide to High-Quality Digital Nude Photography
- Mastering the Trade (McGraw-Hill Trader's Edge)
- Maxwell Street: Survival in a bazaar
- Me Talk Pretty One Day
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- History: Fiction or Science
- Deep Storm: A Novel
- Waiting for White Horses
- 7 Weeks to Safe Social Drinking: How to Effectively Moderate Your Alcohol Intake
- Amazing Grace: Lives of Children and the Conscience of a Nation, The
- Earth System Science From Biogeochemical Cycles to Global Changes
- Cover Your Tracks Without Changing Your Identity: How to Disappear Until You WANT to Be Found
- Great White Sharks: The Biology of Carcharodon carcharias
- Wildcatters: A Story of Texans, Oil, and Money
- Nelson Almanac, The: A Book of Days Recording Nelson's Life and the Events That Shaped His Era
Financial Accounting
The Brief Wadsworth Handbook
The Sundance Writer: A Rhetoric, Reader, Handbook
The Sundance Writer: A Rhetoric, Reader, and Handbook (with InfoTrac)
The Decisive Writer
![Spanish II, 3rd Ed. (Compr.) [CD]](http://images-eu.amazon.com/images/P/074352893X.01.THUMBZZZ.jpg)
![German II, 3rd Ed. (Comp.) [CD]](http://images-eu.amazon.com/images/P/0743523490.01.THUMBZZZ.jpg)
![Chinese (Mandarin) III (Compr.) [CD]](http://images-eu.amazon.com/images/P/0743525469.01.THUMBZZZ.jpg)
