Nobody can deny that there are a plethora of useful language learning resources. It’s easy to get lost in the deep sea of apps, books, and classes. What you may not have known is that you typically need different resources depending on your fluency level. Here is my take on what resources to use at each phase of your language learning journey.
Please note that this is not the only approach, but it is one of many effective ways to tackle foreign language acquisition.
Absolute Beginner
Use free resources to get your feet wet. Some examples are:
• Apps such as Duolingo
• Watching shows in the target language on Netflix with subtitles
• Drop-in lessons
• Listening to music in the target language
Beginner
Invest in a couple of paid resources such as:
• Self-study programs like Pimsleur or Assimil
• Evening group classes or private lessons
• Paid mobile apps
Intermediate
Transition to output-based methods such as:
• Private conversation lessons with a tutor
• Attending Meetups for language learners in your city
• Language exchanges on apps such as HelloTalk or Tandem
High-Intermediate
Continue using output-based strategies while also adding in the following:
• Clean up errors in your speaking and writing
• Place an extra emphasis on increasing your vocabulary. Reading is one way to do this.
• Communicate more precisely with less circumlocutions (finding synonyms for words you don’t know)
• Consume more content designed for native speakers
Advanced
Continue doing everything you did at the high-intermediate phase, but ensure you are always challenging yourself. Learn about topics you know nothing about. For example, I am very fluent in French and Spanish. If I were going to work on those languages now, I would do the following because I feel like I’d learn a lot of new vocabulary:
• Take swim lessons in French/Spanish. I have always wanted to become a stronger swimmer and I have no swimming vocabulary in French and Spanish.
• Read adult fantasy novels with expansive vocabulary
• Take Masters-level literature classes at the university in my city. I already have a Bachelor’s degree in French and Spanish. I know that Master’s level classes would be hard for me and my level in both languages would progress.
• Sign up for private lessons with the focus being discussing and debating deep topics