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I can't speak to learning English specifically, but anyone who's had to learn another tounge they didn't grow up with knows it's hard. My normal recommendation would be that reading and watching stuff that she already knows in English (English subtitles is OK, but no translations) can help develop vocab and ear and a feel for rhythm and usage. Watching/reading stuff you otherwise wouldn't except for learning usage is soul sucking, so it's no surprise she does way better with the interactivity found in conversation.I would specifically recommend against language groups -- when everyone is facing the same challenges, they develop very slowly to a low ceiling, reinforce common weaknesses, and the thought process underlying conversation and cultural context is often in the wrong language even if they're externally speaking the right one. Another problem with language groups is the basis of commonality is weak which makes the process uninteresting. Much better to hang out where others don't speak her language (Portuguese) with people she'd be interested in no matter what they spoke. In practical terms, this means she'll have a really tough time following and expressing herself for quite awhile and it will be exhausting. But she'll get better way faster, have more fun, and make real friends. I recommend against use of translating apps, dictionaries, etc when in these environments except in very rare cases. It breaks the flow and the connection with the other person too much. Also, developing conversation skills requires not translating. Feeling what's going on is much more important than understanding specific words, and you don't need a large vocab to be able to do this. Have been on both sides of this equation and swear by this. kyle On Thu, Feb 24, 2022 at 12:54 PM charles meyer <[log in to unmask]> wrote: > > I’m trying to help a patron learn English conversationally as Portuguese is > her native language. > > She’s tried CDs, DVDs and books but learns best conversationally. >