Learning a new language is absolutely a challenging but rewarding feat. With the widespread of web and mobile technologies, language learning has become way easier and accessible. You can now learn and practice a new language right from the comfort of your own couch.
There are tons of web-based platforms and mobile apps that can help you learn a new language from scratch or develop your existing language skills. In this post, I focus particularly on English language learning.
The collection below features some of what I believe from my own experience as EFL teacher to be the best resources for learning English. I invite you to check them out and share with us your suggestions.
1. BBC Learning English
BBC Learning English offers a wide variety of English learning and teaching resources covering areas such as grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, business English, English for everyday situations, free English courses, English for children, English language quizzes, and many more.
2. Quizlet
Quizlet helps students learn anything including languages through the use of flashcards and game-based quizzes. Teachers can create their own flashcards to share with students. You can also use Quizlet search functionality to search for resources for learning English.
For instance, type in English grammar in the search box and you will have access to various study sets on everything related to English grammar.
You can use search filters to search for resources created by teachers or verified creators. Additionally, Quizlet offers five study modes: Flashcards mode, Learn mode, Write mode, Spell mode, and Test mode.
Learners can choose the mode that best suits them. Quizlet is also available in both Google Play Store and Apple Store. Check out Quizlet full review to learn more.
3. Duolingo
Another great website for learning English (or any of the supported languages). Duolingo offers bite-sized lessons to enhance learners reading, listening, speaking, and communication skills. Duolingo courses contain various skills, each skill further containS 5 levels and each level contains individual lessons.
'As you progress through your lessons, whether completing them individually or through skill test-out (key icon), you will earn Crowns. With 5 levels in each skill, you’ll earn 5 Crowns when you successfully master a skill.' Duolingo is also available as a mobile app for iOS and Android.
4. FluentU
FluentU enhances your language learning through the use of interactive real world videos such as movie trailers, music videos, news, inspiring talks, and more. Captions in videos are subtitled and translated.
Students can click on any word in the video to access in-context definition along with example sentences. Videos also include quizzes enabling students to consolidate their language learning and enhance their comprehension. FluentU is also available as a mobile app on IOS and Android.
5. YouGlish
YouGlish helps (ESL) students learn English pronunciation through the use of YouTube videos. The way it works is simple and easy: type in an English word and hit 'Say it'. YouGlish returns videos where the word is being spoken in authentic communicative interactions.
YouGlish supports various English accents including: American English, Canadian English, Australian English, British English, Irish English, Scottish English and more.
'YouGlish also provides real time captions of shared videos coupled with the option to click on any word that appears in the caption to view its definition.' Check out YouGlish full review to learn more.
6. Dictionary websites
This is a collection of some of the best dictionary websites for students and language learners. Students can use them to search for word definitions, understand word usages through authentic language examples, get help with grammar and syntax, access synonyms antonyms, and more.
7. Learn English with online language tutors
When it comes to enhancing one's speaking fluency and verbal communication, nothing beats immersive and authentic learning experiences. There are several platforms that offer learners the possibility to work one-in-one with native English language teachers and tutors from all around the world.
Some of the best platforms where students can find and access online language tutors include: Verbling.com, Preply.com, Chegg, Cambly.com, Babbel.com, and more.
8. LearEnglish
LearEnglish is a platform that provides lessons and resources designed by the the folks in the British Council to help adult learners develop their English language skills. These resources include self-study courses, live online classes with teachers, quizzes, games, personal online tutoring and more.
Learners can start by taking British Council's free online English test to determine their current English level. The site also offers free resources to help students learn vocabulary, grammar, English speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
There is also a section for Business English where learners explore various materials to help them learn the type of English used in workplaces.
9. Vocabulary learning websites
In this collection you will find some of the best platforms where students can learn and develop their English vocabulary and enhance their grasp of English. From learning how to pronounce new English words to exploring the different ways words are contextually used in everyday conversations, these websites are definitely great for improving one's vocabulary practice.
10. Busuu
Busuu helps learners improve their language learning skills through bite-sized lessons, tips, and guides. Learners can also take part in 1-to-1 lessons or group classes facilitated by professional teachers and tutors.
Busuu interactive community allows learners to exchange pronunciation and grammar tips, share feedback on their language learning, get exercises corrected, and get language help from native speakers across the world. Busuu is also available in both Google Play Store and Apple Store.
11. Talk English
Talk English provides educational resources to help learners become fluent English speakers. These include speaking English lessons, English video lessons, English listening lessons, basics of English grammar, interview English lessons, idioms and phrases, English pronunciation, and more. Talk English also offers a downloadable version of all its version for fee.
12- Online Grammar Learning websites
This collection features handpicked grammar websites students and anyone interested in learning English language can use to develop their grammar. The collection offers access to grammar lessons, videos, guides, downloadable worksheets, quizzes, exercises, and many more.
13- Best language learning apps
Check out this collection I curated featuring some of the best iOS apps to help students learn new languages. From video lessons, interactive games and quizzes, to 1 on 1 tutoring with English teachers, these apps provide students with the necessary resources to start their language learning journey.
