Is translation a good way to learn a language?

[Isaac]

I don't quite understand what you mean by "I'd rather learn in the same way a native speaker does. " but, I can give you some advice on how you can learn the language better.

When I first started learning Japanese(different language but same concept), I went through the same steps you mentioned. I would get a Japanese word, find out what it meant and translated into in English, then memorize it. It was tough, but as I got into it, I got into Japanese songs as well. I started listening to lots and lots of Japanese songs, getting the lyrics in Japanese, perfecting the entire song.

Then I got into Japanese anime, Japanese drama and their variety shows on Youtube. I started watching them, reading the subtitles on those shows, not reading them on and off to see if I got the meaning right. It progressed to Japanese comics in the original language, I didn't even need English translations anymore, and whenever I came across words I didn't understand, there would be a dictionary nearby.

Basically, familiarize yourself with the language. Listen to Spanish songs, watch a few Spanish shows here and there if you've got the time. Read some Spanish books. It doesn't matter if you don't understand all of it, or even most of it. Pronounce the words out loud or in your head. Always fill yourself with the language. Drown yourself in it if you really want to get good at it.

Do all that and continue on with your translations. Listen to your teacher in class, follow her teachings as well.

You can do it. Good luck!