There are many reasons to start learning a new language. It is not only a high leisure activity but also an excellent way to keep yourself productive while learning foreign language skills. Being fluent in more than one language can boost your chances of getting hired or securing promotion at your current job.
Thanks to all the online tools available today, learning a new language has become easier than ever. Formal learning straight out of a textbook might seem tedious and intimidating. But these five tips will help you get the best results while having fun with new language skills.
Turn to Youtube
If you’re a big fan of YouTube and already spend hours on the platform, this language-learning strategy is an excellent fit.
Let’s say you want to learn French, and you have the basics covered. YouTube can come in handy to learn new vocabulary and get used to word pronunciation. Search for French videos with English subtitles and follow along while listening to the speaker.
Some YouTubers also take part in a challenge and speak to partners or family members in a different language for 24 hours. Those videos usually have English subtitles, so it makes it easier to watch for beginner speakers.
Besides, listening to a foreign language for an hour each day can help you learn words subconsciously. So you don’t have to spend hours memorizing things out of a dictionary.
Listen to Music
Music can be a great source of new vocabulary too. And you get to feel the pronunciation of different words as well. Look up foreign songs online and follow along with written lyrics. In the end, you can memorize the words and sing along. Grammarly for students can examine their lexicon and word usage.
If you want to go a step further, make it a daily practice to learn and translate at least one new song. This active listening activity can help the brain get used to the concept of a new language.
Use a VPN
A virtual private network is one of the best assets for learning new languages online. You can install a VPN to connect to a server located in a different country to receive ads and content in a foreign language. An average internet user sees around 5 000 ads per day. Imagine how many new words you could learn if those ads were in a foreign language. A VPN also helps you access foreign streaming platforms. It means you could use it to watch international series and movies in their original language.
To go a step further, consider switching your phone to the language you choose to learn. This way, you get to see new words daily.
To find the best VPN service provider for your needs, go to privacyjournal.net.
Once connected to your VPN, perform a quick speed test to see if your internet connection is fast enough.
One-on-One Tutoring
While tutoring is the most expensive option on this list, it is a great way to learn how to communicate in a new language. If you have a friend or a family member who speaks the tongue you’re interested in, consider scheduling a tutoring lesson online or in person. iTalki has over 10.000 private language teachers worldwide at an affordable price.
Communicating in a foreign language helps you adapt to new words faster. Besides, there are plenty of online learning apps or even ordinary chat apps that you can use to talk to people in a different language.
Read Entry-Level Books
Reading books in a foreign language might sound too challenging. But there are plenty of entry-level books you can look into.
Make it a monthly project to read one entry-level book in the language you choose. But read mindfully and stop every time you need to look something up to understand a sentence.
Suppose you want to commit to learning a new language, set aside a notebook for this activity. Fill the notes with new words each day and revise the content you’ve learned during weekends. Repeat this process for a couple of months and see yourself turning into a seasoned, fluent speaker.
Learn New Language Skills Online
Learning a new language doesn’t have to be an intimidating task. In fact, there are plenty of ways to turn language learning into a fun and enjoyable activity. You use the tools you already have at hand — YouTube, chat apps, and VPNs to access exclusive content.
If you want to improve your language skills, consider following the tips listed above. You’ll learn vocabulary and pronunciation a lot faster. And you will be able to understand videos and songs in a foreign language within as little as a few weeks.
