I’m sure you have noticed that there is a growing population of Tamils, mainly among the Tamil diaspora, who have the ability to speak the language but lack the skills to read or write in Tamil.
Now, we can talk about the politics, conformity, and trauma that are playing a role in this,
but today I wanted to give solid practical tips to help read and write in Tamil.
I feel as adults, many are intimidated to start learning how to read and write the language.
There is this misconception that if you didn’t learn as a child it is impossible, and that is simply not true.
Of course learning Tamil is a skill that will take time.
Remember, you didn’t learn English overnight.
So whether you are a beginner or someone who is just looking to brush up on their skills,
here are some tips and tricks that have helped me improve my reading and writing skills as an adult.
Go Back To The Basics.
Even if you are fluent in speaking Tamil, or can read at a very basic level, I recommend going back to review all the sounds of the letters.
Grab a notebook and write each letter as you say the sounds out loud.
You can watch the Tamil alphabet series where I break down the alphabet.
If you are a beginner and have never written Tamil, traceable books are a great way to start!
Now, do this until you are confident you can write and read each letter.
I highly recommend reviewing the letters from time to time throughout your Tamil learning journey.
Build Your Vocabulary
The more words you know, the more you will want to express yourself.
I highly recommended keeping a physical book where you can write down any new Tamil words you come across.
You can also keep a digital list (I have both!), but writing in a physical book will help with your muscle memory. Where can you find new words? Keep reading, I will get to that I promise!
Grammar
Once you've locked in all the sounds and have started a vocabulary list, you want to understand Tamil grammar rules.
If you can speak Tamil, you are probably familiar with some sentence structures, and verb conjugations.
Regardless, there are countless of free videos on Youtube going over the many Tamil grammar rules. Here is one of my favourite channels.
Understanding grammar is essential, but I know how unappealing it can be to just watch lesson after lesson.
So the rest of this article will cover exercises you can work into your daily life to help with your reading and writing while you tackle grammar concepts.
Consume Content You Enjoy In Tamil
I think this is where many people go wrong.
They spend time trying to read or write things they simply have no interest in, then they just get bored and never go back to learning Tamil.
Use your interests and passions to make this an enjoyable experience for yourself.
Pick a topic you like, let's say history.
You can follow Tamil subtitles on Tamil videos about history.
There are many ways you can alter this exercise based on where you are at in your learning journey.
Say you're watching a lecture.
After 1-2 minutes, you can pause the video, go back (and mute the audio) then read the subtitles yourself.
This way if you are stuck with your reading, you can just unmute to listen to how the words are pronounced.
If you want to go a step further, write out the sentences while doing this to maximize practising both reading and writing skills.
Expose Yourself To Pure Tamil
Spoken Tamil is more relaxed and an informal version of Tamil.
But to truly appreciate the beauty of the Tamil language, or learn to read and write, we must learn actual Tamil - or formal Tamil.
This alone has helped me learn how words are spelt, see the various grammar rules in use, and improve my pronunciations when reading and speaking.
You can watch the news, listen to speeches, or even some lectures and interviews.
One of my favourites is listening to speeches.
Search for speeches about a topic you like.
Every time you come across a word you do not know while watching,
Pause the video
Go to Google translate
Change the language to Tamil
Hit the mic and speak that word into Google Translate.
Now you will see how the word is spelt, as well as get a loose definition for it.
But go to another online dictionary and double check the definition of words because Google is not always accurate.
Then you can take that new word and write it in your book.
Once you've written the new word down, go back to the start of the speech and see if you can understand everything you are listening to.
At first you may only be able to get through 5 minutes of the video, and that is okay!
The whole point of this exercise is to progressively grow your skills.
Think about how good it will feel once you can sit through an entire news segment or lecture without stopping to look up a word.
Listen To Tamil Songs And Follow Along With The Lyrics
Following along with the lyrics on Spotify, or Youtube will help you see how words are spelt.
Not only will this help build your vocabulary, and expose you to the different grammar rules used for poetry/songs,
but following the lyrics at the speed songs are playing will help your reading.
If you are looking for Tamil song recommendations check out my Spotify playlist.
Follow Along With An Audiobook
Similar to music, you can read books in Tamil and follow along to the text via audiobooks.
If the speed of the reader is too fast, go to the settings on Spotify or Youtube and slow the audio down.
By reading Tamil books not only will you be improving your Tamil skills but you will also be exposing yourself to Tamil literature and cultural insights!
If you are looking for something to read, I highly recommend the Ponniyin Selvan series and Ponniyin Selvan audiobook
Text Tamil Family Members In Tamil
You can download a Tamil keyboard on almost any smartphone nowadays.
Texting family members will allow you to engage in daily conversations, meaning you are likely to learn phrases and sentences that you will actually use on a regular basis.
Alternatively, you can find a penpal to email or even write letters to.
There are many Facebook groups or the What You Missed In Tamil Class community if you are looking to find someone!
Translate And Summarize Texts
If you are at a bit more advanced level in your Tamil journey, then perhaps you can tackle a translation exercise.
Read a children’s book (or a novel) and try to translate the English into Tamil or Tamil into English.
I highly recommend starting small.
It is easy to verbally translate and summarize stories but you will notice when writing out translations, your grammar skills will be put to the test.
Join A Community Of Like-Minded People
Even if you are just looking to read and write Tamil, being in an environment where people are actively learning Tamil, or interested in Tamil, will inevitably help your Tamil learning journey.
Let’s Speak Tamil Community Zoom Calls is a great place if you are looking to connect with others from around the world who are also interested in learning Tamil.
Finally, Keep The Desire To Learn.
Just saying "I want to read and write Tamil" will not take you far if you are not actively practising.
This is why joining communities and being around others helps a lot.
Give yourself a very clear why before you start.
Every time you get too busy to practise reading or writing remind yourself of your why.
Is it so you can communicate with your family members?
Do you you want to travel?
Do you want read ancient Tamil poetry?
Or do you want to be able to teach your kids?
A reminder from time to time when you are feeling frustrated or unmotivated can go a long way.
And remember to be patient and kind with yourself.
You may only be able to do a few things on this list and that is more than okay.
This is a skill that will take time to develop, and any kind progress is great!
The first step is just getting started.
Good luck, and happy learning!
*Disclaimer: This post contains an amazon affiliate link. That means that I am awarded a small commission to support this blog for purchases made through them, at no added cost for you.*
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