In order to be fluent in a second language, you have to immerse yourself fully in the language in every aspect, not just in terms of grammar and vocabulary, but also in culture. Another way to fully immerse yourself into the culture is to read the history of the country and watch movies in that language with English subtitles to learn new vocabulary words and sentences. Once you feel more advanced in the language you're learning, everyday, when you wake up in the morning, read a newspaper article in that language from that country and see what you understand. Every time there's a new vocabulary word you just learned, write it in a small notebook and write the English translation next to it.
As a fluent French speaker myself, both grammar and vocabulary are equally important. There are many languages that are like that. It's hard to speak French if you don't know French grammar and what are the rules for writing in French.
Those are just some of the tips I have for a new language. Of course, if you can, having a tutor with you helps, but I also understand that not everyone has the luxury of being able to afford a tutor.
Anita W.
09/02/24