Learning new languages is like opening new paths in life, having access to literary works and content that have never been or will never be translated, as well as being in direct contact with the local culture through its language.
When someone is willing to speak the other’s language, communication becomes a form of empathy that transforms into a barrier-free medium, thus making the exchange of information lighter and more effective.
Learning comes from daily interaction, and for that we need to be in contact with the new language as much as possible, whatever the means.
To optimize language learning, I use the following practices:
- Foreign Television
- Currently, several television channels, especially news channels, have live streaming via the internet;
- There is also the option of IPTV, which brings together a list of various channels with free live streaming;
- GitHub – IPTV
- Watching foreign television puts you in contact with local situations, as well as a greater understanding of the culture, topics in question, and current events;
- Movies & Series
- It’s always interesting to watch movies and series with subtitles in the language we’re studying; this trains our listening skills and also helps us learn expressions.
- Currently, there’s also simultaneous translation via AI through some YouTube videos; the same applies to auto-generated subtitles.
- Suggested channels with free documentaries:
- Books
- Reading books can be a little difficult, so it’s important to have a dictionary or a translation app to help with reading.
- Often, understanding a page is more important than just one word. Writing
- It can be challenging, but it’s a great way to practice words, rules, and expressions;
- Writing
- Writing about your day, an event, or even practicing an introduction or presentation can greatly contribute to language learning;
- Music
- Searching for artists and following the lyrics of their songs;
- Social Media
- Following not only news pages but also meme or influencer pages can help you stay in constant contact with the language throughout the day;
- Language Apps
- A good option for doing quick exercises anywhere;
- Classes
- Depending on the situation, it’s worthwhile to look for a language school or even a private tutor;
- Having a private tutor is a plus because all the attention is focused on you.
- Language schools are interesting because of their methodology, contact with other students, and even the availability of literary works.
It’s always good to remember that learning a new language requires patience and daily dedication, and that little by little, through practice and consuming content, we improve our fluency.