Here are some online and print resources that I am using to learn Italian. While one program alone won’t teach you a foreign language, a combined approach can really build your competency. These resources have been quite a big help to me, and hopefully will be to you as well.
The Necessities
Learn Italian Pod: This free audio podcast is a great, fun introduction to the Italian language. The focus is not on formal speech but instead on the basic phrases you will need to get around in Italy. Jane and Massimo are native speakers, and they repeat words slowly so that you can say them correctly. There are many lessons available, and at around 10 minutes a lesson they’re easy to add to your daily routine.
Michel Thomas Speak Italian for Beginners: This audio course will teach you the basics of Italian grammar and verb tenses. The explanations are excellent and easy to understand, even for those who have been studying Italian for awhile. The price is quite high, and I would recommend ordering them from your local library. Keep in mind that Thomas is not a native speaker of Italian, so you will need additional audio supplements to improve your accent.
Michel Thomas Speak Italian Advanced: The advanced course picks up where the beginning course left off. It really drills the different tenses into your head, and helps you nail down the grammatical constructs that give beginners difficulty.
Pimsleur Italian Levels 1 Through 3: The Pimsleur method has been highly lauded for allowing you to gain competency of basic phrases with a very good accent. The Italian course will help you learn the most necessary phrases so well that even your nerves won’t stop you from ordering a cappuccino in Italy. Unfortunately, the price of the products is very high, verging on being ridiculous. The best way to get it is to order it from your local library (most take requests and will get it to you quickly). Costco and Amazon also offer lower prices on Pimsleur products.
Web Resources
About.com Italian: This is a great reference resource for grammar and culture. Especially good is the word of the day, which comes in audio so you can learn it correctly.
How to Learn Any Language Italian Profile: Interesting and realistic information about the Italian language. This is a great place to start learning about Italian.
Word Reference Italian Dictionary: The best online dictionary for romance language. Features a verb conjugator and active forums.
