Do you ever get the impression that learning is an endless trip through the world of homework and textbooks? What if I told you that you could simultaneously study a new language and go on an amazing adventure? Yes, you are correct! Games are the enchanted portals that can lead you on an exciting voyage of language learning. Learning a new language can be enjoyable.
Imagine a world in which learning is like a game, where you are the hero with the aim of conquering new languages. Let's investigate how a variety of games, social and traditional media, applications, and innovative learning connections might enhance the fun and excitement of language learning.
Social Networking Sites and Traditional Media
We have traditionally acquired languages through lectures in the classroom and from textbooks. On the other hand, we have an abundance of resources at our disposal in this digital age. The combination of traditional approaches with social media can be a game-changer in learning a foreign language.
Grammar classes and traditional textbooks are necessary, but they can be monotonous. Conversely, games add excitement to the learning process. You won't even realize you're learning new words and phrases since you'll be having so much fun playing games like Hangman, Word Search, and Crossword puzzles.
Social media, with its diverse content, is another goldmine for language learners. Follow influencers and creators who speak the language you're learning. Watch videos, listen to podcasts, and read posts in that language. Engaging with content in a language you're learning makes it more relatable and helps you pick up colloquial expressions (Informal words or phrases that are often used in spoken language yet might not be regarded as formal or standard are known as colloquial language).
Creative Language Learning Apps
Now, let's dive deeper into the realm of language learning apps. There are countless apps designed to make studying more creative and enjoyable. These apps can be your trusty companions on your language learning adventure.
Duolingo: A website that makes learning languages fun is Duolingo. It feels more like a fun challenge than a hassle because you compete with others and earn points. Furthermore, it adjusts to your preferred learning method and speed, guaranteeing constant engagement.
Anki: On the other side, Anki is a flashcard program that improves word recall through gradual repetition. The object of the game is to gradually improve your linguistic abilities, much like in a memory game.
10 Minute School: It offers instructional videos and materials to support students and learners of all ages in a range of areas. The website offers digestible, 10-minute video sessions with the goal of making learning more convenient and accessible.
Khan Academy: Khan Academy Kids offers a vast array of educational games and activities for kids, including subjects like reading, math, and social-emotional growth.
Starfall ABCs: Starfall ABCs uses interactive games and phonics to teach students how to read using phonics.
Toca Boca: Toca Boca encourages children's creativity and discovery through a variety of imaginative and creative play applications.
Creative Learning Connections
Let's now explore the potential of innovative educational relationships. All four language skills—speaking, reading, writing, and listening—can be improved using games.
Listening: Games frequently have audio elements, which enhance your listening abilities. Your ears will become trained to detect the sounds of the language through various activities, such as following directions in a language-learning app or listening to video game characters. For instance, Babbel app focuses on conversation-based language learning.
Speaking: Many games invite you to interact with the game world by speaking to it. Tandem and other language applications let you practice speaking by connecting you with native speakers for chats. For instance, Hello Talk, Tandem, Speaky, Pronunciation power, etc.
Reading: Video games, especially role-playing games (RPGs), are often rich in text. You'll encounter dialogues, narratives, and instructions in the target language, which can boost your reading comprehension.
Writing: Games often require you to take notes, solve puzzles, or communicate with other players through writing. This practice strengthens your writing skills and vocabulary.
The creative connections don't stop there. You can write your own stories, poems, or even create your own language-based games. This self-expression not only reinforces your language skills but also taps into your creativity.
The article was written by Nafisa Tabassum, Assistant Teacher at St. Gregory’s High School & College.