Three Language Learning Resources

Being a Spanish teacher, I am always looking for online resources to support my students especially these past two months when all instruction has been done virtually.

Here are three sites that have been helpful for language practice. They are all free (or have large portions that are free) and the first two address multiple languages. Plus, they aren't just written vocabulary or grammar practice; there are also opportunities for reading and listening practice too.

I've used these sources for both myself and my students. Hope you enjoy!
  • Duolingo: available through a web browser or as an app, this free website has dozens of languages to practice from the most popular Spanish to less-studied Dutch, Hebrew, and Swahili and even the fictional Klingon. Each lesson is short, most little segments taking me less than five minutes. Lessons focus on specific topics although will pull from previous vocabulary (also sometimes unexpected like when the word "duck" popped up in the clothing unit). While Duolingo gives tips for each lesson, it's strength lies in getting you to do simple practice everyday more than explicit language teaching. (There is a paid version but I've stuck with the free one.)
  • The Fable Cottage: fairy tales and other stories written in multiple languages (Spanish, French, German, to name a few) and accompanied by audio recordings. Even better some of the stories have video versions and you can choose to add in subtitles in English or the video's language. Fun note: some of the stories add in unique details for a new perspective on the original tale.
  • Locura de Marzo: this last one is for Spanish-language learners. Last year I stumbled across this version of March Madness with Spanish songs appropriate for the classroom. Music is such an integral and authentic part of the culture and I loved discovering this way to share not just the language but the culture with my students. Another great aspect about this website was that it was more than just a list of good song choices; it has links to activities related to the songs and background information on some of the artists. Often I adapted resources to better match my own classroom, but these were awesome starting points.
Have you tried any of these sites? Do you have another favorite?

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