Learning some languages.

[nfqbweqgekrgnletgkk]

So, here's the thing.

I LOVE foreign languages (listening to them, learning them, etc.)
But unfortunately, my school only offers 2 years of Spanish or 2 years of French. The problem is, I know that there's no way in Hell I'll be close to fluent/half decent at either one after only 2 years. I just finished 2 years of Spanish, and I'm terrible, mostly due to the fact that my teacher slowed the entire class so the unmotivated/retarded kids wouldn't fall behind. I expect French to be the same way.

My question: How would you suggest I better my Spanish/French skills after my 2 years of shit high school instruction? Also, I'm trying to learn some Russian; Any recommendations as to how I can improve it (courses, programs, books, etc)

I'm also looking for one more language. Anyone have a suggestion for a final language to learn?

[supperrfreek]

Try to speak it. If you know anyone who grew up speaking Spanish, politely ask them to help you out (explain your situation).

If you want to learn something close to Spanish, that isn't at all Spanish, I heard that Italian is similar, as well as Rumanian (if you don't know anyone who speaks it, I wouldn't try it though).

[nfqbweqgekrgnletgkk]

Anyone else?

[Sookie]

I'm not sure if books will help you, to be honest. I took all 4 years of French in high school, including an AP course, which is where I learned the most, as far as speaking-wise.

Like supperrfreek said, the best way is to converse with other speakers. You can also take language courses in college, which are slightly better than high school classes.

And... how about Romanian or Russian?
I learned a little bit of Romanian, and while they say it's a Romantic language... it's only slightly related. It's much harder and Slavic... but it sounds cool.
As for Russian, it's obviously completely different but supposedly it's fun to learn.

[Unwanted Prostate Exam]

What ever language you learn, learn it completely. You should continue learning Spanish to proficiency. Then move on to your next, and you will find that learning a third gets easier by already understanding two languages. For example, Russian has some amount of latin influence so it's only helpful.

Yes Russian is fun to learn if you have a large amount of Russians in your area. They're some kickass people and know how to party. And don't be intimidated by the alphabet, It's not so bad.

Don't bother with Romanian unless you've learned other slavic languages already.

so yeah, finish learning Spanish, one day it will be of use.

[Animal Farm Pig]

You're lucky-- you got the fundamentals through class room instruction. The best way for you to move forward now would be through immersion in a Spanish or French speaking environment.

After Spanish and French, why not Portuguese? It's a wonderful language. With English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese, you should be able to travel to basically anywhere in the Americas and be able to speak the language.

[Rolf]

Rolf suggests a language with true warrior spirit - Rolf suggests Gaulish.