I would really like to learn Japanese. Are there any free sites that can help me do this?
I would really just like to learn Japanese so I can understand what's going on in my animes that don't have english subs. I know a few words from watching anime but that's not enough to understand what's going on in their conversation.
So you want to learn Japanese eh? Great choice! The language is fun, the culture is fascinating, and the food is delicious!
Here's a few tips to get you started.
1. Be aware that Japanese is unlike any other language. You need to completely rewire your brain to speak it effectively. This website ( http://kimallen.sheepdogdesign.net/Japanese/index.html ) gives a great introduction on how the language is structured in relation to English.
2. Language learning consists of four parts: Hearing, Speaking, Reading, and Writing. Be sure to focus on each of these areas, but especially hearing and speaking. To help, try JapanesePod101.com ( http://www.japanesepod101.com/ ) and sign up for their free podcasts. This is a great resource for Japanese learners. You can also look for a Japanese pen pal on the internet. Shared Talk ( http://www.sharedtalk.com ) seems to have serious students, who aren't just looking for a girl/boyfriend.
3. Study everything! Don't look for one or two resources and expect to learn everything from them. When someone asks which book, CD, or computer program is best to learn from, I say, "All of them!" I learned something from every Japanese language-related book I've ever read. Read a lot and you'll learn a lot. For starters, I liked the book "Japanese: The Manga Way" by Wayne P. Lammers.
4. Take a class. The good thing about taking a Japanese class is that it forces you to study, even if you don't want to. It also provides a nice structure for learning the language, along with someone who can correct your pronunciation.
5. Go to Japan! This is the number one, fastest, easiest, guaranteed-to-work way to learn Japanese. Even if it's just for a visit, being immersed in the language is a huge benefit to study. Japanese people are usually really supportive of foreigners learning their language and their encouragement will be a great boost for you.
6. Never give up! Japanese is a really hard language. It might seem fun now, but it also requires a lot of memorization and practice. Don't expect to be fluent even after a few years of study (especially if you're not studying in Japan). Language learning is a life-long pursuit.
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Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening are all important. When you write, verbalise and write. When you read, slowly but make sure to read step by step. After finish reading short paragraph, read fast again and go to next. You will be fine. Don't worry.