Learning how to speak a foreign language today has never been easier as access to advanced technologies, virtual reality tools, and innovative methods of learning make it much easier.
Still, the classic methods of learning a language with a textbook still apply, yet adding multimedia solutions makes things much easier since it is possible to communicate with native speakers and use all these helpful mobile solutions.
Regardless of your approach, remember that the trick is to find what works for you and enjoy learning in the first place because you have to be inspired!
7 Tips & Resources For Learning To Speak Foreign Language
- Memrise
If you want to learn a language by playing games and keeping things fun, it is the way to go. It is a popular language-learning app that can be used by people of all ages. It can get serious and complex if necessary, yet most people enjoy learning by using gamification methods. There is due focus on grammar and pronunciation training, too.
- HelloTalk
Use this free app to talk to foreign native speakers from over 130 different countries. It is the best and surely the most efficient way to practice your speaking skills and ask questions by using this friendly resource. It can use both audio and video streams for learning purposes.
- Slack
Let’s not forget about this great content management and collaboration tool as it’s constantly used for business training sessions and language learning. Slack is free and doesn’t require installation, which makes it good for those cases when you need to learn something technical or practice your speaking skills privately via video or audio.
It also makes language learning benefits clear when you can collaborate at the same time! Give it a try and remember that you can store your learning materials all in one place.
- Quizlet
Just try searching the free database for language learning templates or the rules that have been uploaded by both educators and students alike. It has a plethora of information that every language learner will appreciate! You can also create your language learning presentations!
- Pocket Oxford Dictionary
Speaking of helpful tips, it is a great free app that you should try because it allows searching for words in English and helps you with synonyms and explanations. Just download your language pair! It’s a great solution for all purposes even if you are a native English speaker!
- InterPals
It is a great community where you can learn how to speak a foreign language by using text, audio, or video. It contains a database of language learners from all over the world. You can meet new people and make friends.
However, the quality of learning will always differ. For example, if you need someone to help you with travel documents, it is always safer to use professional translation services for documents because it requires a certified person. For the basic learning how to pronounce words, it is a great place!
- BBC Languages Network
Another great free language-learning resource for those who would like to master a foreign language with the help of self-learning online courses. It offers European languages like French, Spanish, and even Portuguese.
Of course, Italian and German learners will be in for a treat as well. It also has Greek and Mandarin Chinese. If you are a complete beginner, this might be the best and most enjoyable option!
Grammar First or Learning How To Speak Well?
It should not be either one of those because you may learn how to speak a foreign language by playing video games online or watching foreign language movies but you won’t be able to form sentences without knowing the grammar well.
Remember that once you start with the grammar rules, the most important is to see and learn how and where they are implemented. It is achieved by listening to the language, writing as much as you can, and reading books.
Yes, reading books is always an integral part as our brain connects what is being written with the emotional aspects. It helps to engage our cognitive functions, making learning a foreign language much easier regardless of whether you speak or write.
