Deutschland Dienstag: Top 3 Language Learning Aids

Want to know the difference between Nudeln and Kabelsalat?

(The first is “noodles”, the second can refer to “spaghetti” but is more often is used to describe messy computer, TV,  etc. cables).  Here are my top three language learning aids:

 

Memrise– I do a course designed to teach me ten new words a day.  You can review words to check they’re sticking in your memory, practice difficult words (based on your own performance), and you learn by both typing and multiple choice answers.  It’s free, but you can go Pro and unlock extra learning techniques.

 

BBC German Grammar Bitesize– There are loads of apps that focus on vocabulary, but I find grammar the hardest aspect.  This course is easy to follow, has questions to gauge your understanding, and fun snippets about life in Germany.

 

Books/TV/Radio- Most language courses will teach you “Guten Morgen”, but let’s face it, we don’t really use it (apart from in a formal setting).  For more colloquial German, television and radio are a fantastic help (they also give you German at a natural speed). Radio stations are available online, and some streaming services offer music (and films with German dubbing/subtitles).  Many English books are available as translations (and German fiction also rocks), sit yourself down with a cup of coffee and a German/English dictionary to one side.  Alternatively, download them on an e-reader and the dictionary is integral (once you’ve downloaded the new language for it).

 

Learning a new language is undoubtedly hard work, but it boosts your brain, and I find it super fun.  You’ll make mistakes along the way, and it’s important to remember you’re new to it (comparing your proficiency with your mother tongue creates frustration).  But, above all else, remember this gem!

 

I live in Baden-Württemberg whose business motto is “we can do anything, except speak proper German” 🙂

 

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