If your goal is to be a translator at the United Nations, then you’re probably going to want to learn how to speak in formal settings. If, however, your goal is to speak to Brazilians in shops and make lighthearted conversation in pubs, then Colloquial Portuguese is the way to go. If you’re just starting out, then a simple book covering regular conversation topics is probably what you’re looking for. Colloquial Portuguese of Brazil may be a good fit for you.
The book covers all the typical beginner’s conversation topics. You’ll start by learning basic introductions and then move on to some information about sightseeing, health, weekend plans, and living arrangements.
"If your goal is to be a translator at the United Nations, then you’re probably going to want to learn how to speak in formal settings. If, however, your goal is to speak to Brazilians in shops and make lighthearted conversation in pubs, then colloquial Portuguese is the way to go."
Like many books, each chapter follows a basic format. The chapter starts out by telling you in English what you’re about to learn. Then, there is a dialogue that fits the topic. If you buy the audio CD, then you can also listen to the dialogue. If not, you’ll simply read it out from the book. There are also some language notes provided in each chapter, such as the linguistic changes necessary if you are a male or female. Next, the dialogue is presented in English to help you learn what you just heard or read. Following the dialogues, the student will be able to do a few exercises related to what was learned in the dialogue. This may require listening to or rereading the dialogue, translating, or filling in the blanks.
The chapter moves on to give a more explanation related to the topic. For example, the first chapter is titled, “Oi, tudo bem?” or “Hi, is everything ok?” After the first dialogue, there is a lesson on proper greetings depending on the time of day. The phrases are given and along with a few paragraphs explaining usage and formalities; at the end of each lesson there is also another final dialogue for students to analyze. In chapter one, the dialogue is presented in a way that allows the student to be more involved by coming up with responses before hearing the given responses. In total, chapter one includes four dialogues, many lessons, vocabulary lists, grammar, and pronunciation activities. The entire chapter is about 20 pages long; with this kind of length, students will really have a handle on each topic by the end of the chapter.
This book is great for independent study, but it can also be used by Brazilian Portuguese teachers in one-on-one or classroom settings. The book does come across as a bit bland in layout and even content, but if you have students who are actually interested in learning the language then it shouldn’t be a problem. If your students are reluctant teenagers, then this book and audio set is probably not going to do a good job at catching their attention.
