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German Guide

Our online language tools

The LCC offers a range of software options to study languages and enhance learning languages. Here are some of the resources:

  • Mango Languages (multiple languages; create your own account and use online)
  • Rosetta Stone (multiple languages; create your own account and use online)
  • Skritter (Chinese and Japanese; create your own account and use online)

More information on the language learning softwares can be found here https://commons.mtholyoke.edu/languageresourcecenter/facilities-2/software/

Grammar Links

To better understand grammar, it can be useful to look at real examples of how a particular structure or word is used. A "concordancer" is a tool that lets you search for a particular word, phrase or pattern, pulling out example sentences from a database of texts (which might be news articles, novels, speeches, etc.).

An example of what a concordance search looks likeA search engine, like Google, can also be a quick, easy way to investigate questions like "What's the right way to say this?" Limit your results by domain to a country where the language is spoken (e.g., websites that end in ".es" for Spain). The more correct or natural wording will usually generate more search results.

Virtual Language Learning Communities

It's important to practice expressing yourself in your new language--saying what you want to say, outside of the shelter of the classroom. Do you like meeting new people? You might enjoy a language/conversation exchange, where you connect with someone (from around the world!) who speaks the language you're learning, and who is trying to learn the language you speak. The websites below can help you find a conversation partner.

If you decide to pursue a language exchange, please be cautious about sharing personal information, to keep your identity and your person safe. While some language exchanges turn into lifelong friendships, others fizzle out after the first meeting, so don't be disappointed if your exchange doesn't last. Be upfront with potential conversation partners about your expectations: How often/how long do you want to meet? How much time will you spend speaking in each language? Do you want your partner to correct your language? Do you want to choose topics or talk about whatever comes up?

Fun Apps!

Here is a selection of fun apps that you can access online related to German.

Busuu is a language learning platform on the web, IOS, and Android that features interactive learning experiences. The basic service, which is free, allows learners to practice vocabulary with flashcards. 

The Learn German section at DW AKADEMIE features various German courses by level, as well as many reading texts and films in German. 

Media: Newspapers, Radio

Here is a selection of news media that you can access online related to German.

It is a berlin daily newspaper

DW Akademie features news, stores, and analysis of German and European international affairs. The news is also available in 30 languages. 

A German daily newspaper from Belgium

It highlights news from the Catholic church of Austria.

  • Zitty Online

    It has the news and cultural information from Berlin

Podcasts

Here is a selection of podcasts that you can access online related to German.

Easy German is a podcast on Youtube that explores the culture and daily life of Germans. 

Learn German with GermanPod101.com is a podcast on Youtube that features a wide range of lessons for starter and intermediate learners. Apart from lessons, the podcast also shows tips and strategies on how to learn German effectively.

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