If I plan to move to Israel within 4 months, how should I start learning Hebrew? Rosetta Stone or private?

I have almost no background in Hebrew, but I can sound out the letters.
Should I seek a private teacher for a few months previous to moving, or should I just use a program like Rosetta Stone? Or is there a book you recommend?
Alternatively, should I just wait until I arrive in Israel to go through an ulpan from scratch?

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Chosen Answer:

Hey Eric

They’re right about RS- save your money.

One thing you SHOULD do before you go is get Byki. It’s a free language learning program to teach you Hebrew. It’s fast, effective, and will give you a solid understanding of the language when you arrive.

I’ve used Byki for several languages and upgraded it on a few of the ones I wanted to get serious on. Have fun and enjoy your trip!
by: Casey
on: 22nd December 08

4 Responses to “If I plan to move to Israel within 4 months, how should I start learning Hebrew? Rosetta Stone or private?”

1. moscowcalls says:

   December 15, 2008 at 4:23 pm

   Private instructions is infinitely better than Rosetta Stone. RS tries to make every single language seem as if it’s English, and is often incorrect in it’s translations. Private instruction will put you in contact with someone who has studied the language, or a native speaker, which will help you much more.

   Reply
2. Casey says:

   December 16, 2008 at 11:44 am

   Hey Eric

   They’re right about RS- save your money.

   One thing you SHOULD do before you go is get Byki. It’s a free language learning program to teach you Hebrew. It’s fast, effective, and will give you a solid understanding of the language when you arrive.

   I’ve used Byki for several languages and upgraded it on a few of the ones I wanted to get serious on. Have fun and enjoy your trip!

   Reply
3. Sharon G says:

   December 17, 2008 at 3:06 am

   Hi

   The best way to learn a new language is to speak it. Therefore I would recommend to look for an online language course, that uses a combination of technology – video, voice and camera

   This way you get the feeling of really speaking the language.

   For my opinion the best program online for teaching hebrew is
   http://www.hebrewonline.com/default.asp

   Good Luck and enjoy your stay in Israel

   Reply
4. Yoni A says:

   December 19, 2008 at 11:12 am

   NOTHING is as efficient and affective like an Ulpan.
   I guess you could do some research and try to teach yourself some things (like the Aleph-Bet, simple words etc)- but Ulpan is definitely your best option.

   Reply