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14 Essential Tools for Learning Spanish On Your Own
Must-Have Resources for Self-Learners
Mero Spanish Newsletter
January 26, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 7 minutes
Learning Spanish by yourself takes more than just using Duolingo.
It's a journey with many steps. You need to find motivation and start working. Then, you'll choose what to learn, set a time, figure out how to learn, and pick your resources.
In this post, I will share 14 tools and resources to help you learn Spanish more straightforwardly, whether you're starting or already learning.
I'll explain each tool, tell you which learning level it's best for, and how it works with other tools on the list.
Table of Contents
1. Textbook or Grammar Book
Start with a solid foundation. You need a comprehensive textbook or grammar book to understand the structure of the Spanish language. It's indispensable. It provides a systematic approach to grammar, vocabulary, and common phrases.
Level: All levels, especially beneficial for Beginners and Intermediates.
Integration: Use the textbook and writing exercises to apply learned grammar rules.
2. App for Daily Practice
Leverage technology to enhance your learning. Mobile apps offer daily practice exercises, allowing you to learn on the go. They're perfect for fitting in short, regular practice sessions, essential for language retention.
Level: All levels, but convenient for Beginners.
Integration: Complement app exercises with flashcards for vocabulary reinforcement.
3. Notebook for Writing Exercises
Writing is a powerful tool for language learning. Keeping a dedicated notebook for Spanish exercises helps reinforce grammar and expand vocabulary.
Level: All levels, but crucial for Intermediate and Advanced learners.
Integration: After reading a newspaper/magazine, write a summary or opinion in your notebook.
4. A Reader (For 6th Grade or 12-Year-Olds)
Immerse yourself in the language. Readers for younger audiences are excellent for beginners. They offer more straightforward vocabulary and sentence structures, helping you build confidence in reading.
Level: Beginner.
Integration: Use readers alongside listening to songs to see the language in written and spoken forms.
5. Podcast List
Listening to Spanish podcasts is an excellent way to improve comprehension. It also helps you get accustomed to different accents. You can listen to them during commutes or while relaxing.
Level: Intermediate and Advanced.
Integration: Listen to podcasts on topics discussed in online forums or social media groups.
6. Song List
Music is not only enjoyable but also a great language-learning tool. Spanish songs can help improve your listening skills and pronunciation. They're also a fun way to learn colloquial expressions.
Level: All levels.
Integration: Try writing the lyrics you hear as a listening and writing exercise.
7. Explainer Videos
Visual learning aids like explainer videos can clarify complex grammar concepts or vocabulary. They are often available for free on platforms like YouTube.
Level: Beginner and Intermediate.
Integration: Watch videos about grammar or topics you've read in textbooks to reinforce learning.
8. Video Courses
Engage with comprehensive video courses for structured learning. They offer the benefits of classroom learning with the flexibility of self-paced study. 😉
Level: All levels, especially Intermediate.
Integration: Use language exchange platforms to practice what you've learned in video courses.
9. Language Exchange Platforms
Practice speaking with native speakers through language exchange platforms. They offer a real-world experience of using the language in conversation.
10. Watch Movies and TV Series
Watching Spanish TV shows helps you learn the language because it's used in different situations and with different accents. It's an entertaining way to sharpen your listening skills.
11. Flash Cards
Flashcards are a classic method for memorizing vocabulary. You can access digital versions from anywhere. They are a convenient study tool.
12. Regular Reading of Newspapers/Magazines in Spanish
Stay updated and practice reading through Spanish newspapers and magazines. They provide exposure to current vocabulary and real-life language usage.
Level: Intermediate and Advanced.
Integration: Discuss articles in online forums or with language exchange partners.
13. Journaling in Spanish
Keeping a journal in Spanish boosts your ability to express thoughts and ideas. You can also use the journal not only to practice exercises, as in point 3, but also to reflect on your learning process. This is one of the best ways to self-asses yourself as an independent learner.
Level: All levels, particularly for Intermediate and Advanced learners.
Integration: Write about experiences using apps or while watching TV series.
14. Spanish-speaking Online Forums or Social Media Groups
Participate in Spanish-speaking forums or social media groups to practice reading and writing. They also allow you to interact with communities of learners and native speakers.
Level: Intermediate and Advanced.
Integration: Share insights from podcasts or explainer videos in online discussions.
Using these tools in your learning routine will improve your Spanish language skills. Remember, consistency is critical.
Choose the tools that best fit your learning style and goals. Embark on your journey to Spanish fluency.
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