Browsing through the Our Languages blog, I came across Ana Conan’s brilliant post How my love of words shaped my life. I found her feelings were beautifully put into words, as I have felt the same connection to words and language my entire life. I also feel like learning other languages has broadened and deepened this connection.
All my life I’ve lived in a small town in central Italy. I’m a physicist, and I’ve studied a lot of things, but I can honestly say that learning English as a second language is the single thing in my entire life that has given me the most in terms of cultural enrichment, opportunities, and human communication and connection.
To me, English has opened the doors to the world. I can’t put into words how many song lyrics – including some from Canadian artists like Alanis Morissette, Shania Twain, and Shawn Mendes – have touched my soul and moved me deeply. I could have read Italian translations of renowned English novels, but it wouldn’t have been the same!
I often hear people say that you can only master your target language if you move abroad. I think spreading this opinion can demotivate insecure learners. But your learning journey need not be lonely or daunting. I agree with blogger Brandon DeRiggs that there are many ways to learn a language without leaving your house (see the blog post Five ways to achieve total immersion in a language without leaving your house). I, myself, learned English and German without leaving home.
And I’d like to add one more resource to the ones already proposed in the blog post Language learning made (almost) effortless: using social media, and particularly Instagram, to improve language skills.
I know that many of us are guilty of spending a bit too much time absentmindedly scrolling on the couch after a long day. But social media can also give us access to new and fascinating worlds. Let’s see what we can find on Instagram to help us progress in our target language:
- Dedicated accounts for language learners: A lot of teachers post free resources on social media, including short videos, colorful content and effective language tips. In order to succeed in the competitive metaverse, reels and posts have to be compelling and original, which also makes them easier to remember!
- National magazines: These accounts usually employ simple and clear language, with a standard register (not too colloquial or dialectal). The texts are short and the important information is highlighted, so you can grasp the meaning, even if you don’t understand every single word.
- Videos with subtitles: Since not all users have their audio activated, many content creators use subtitles in their videos. This allows you to practice your listening and reading skills at the same time!
- Accounts that reflect your interests: Let’s be honest: learning a language is no easy task. The listening exercises and written texts found in textbooks can be a bit boring, while authentic language in novels and TV shows may be too advanced for beginner and intermediate learners. But on Instagram you can follow pages and accounts that deal with topics you’re actually interested in: sports, music, psychology, finance, you name it! Reading posts in your target language about things you’re passionate about is motivating and can enrich your vocabulary.
- Memes: Let’s not forget about humor! Cartoons and memes in your target language may not always be easy to understand, especially when puns or cultural references are included, but they’re a good way to make your language learning fun and entertaining. If you can’t understand the punchline, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification in the comments. Most native speakers will be happy to help a learner who’s interested in their language and culture!
- Comments: Don’t forget to read the comments! These can be a bit difficult to follow, because people often use abbreviations or colloquialisms. Plus, they can contain typos or grammar mistakes. On the other hand, comments are as close as it gets to the everyday authentic language spoken by native speakers, but in written form, which is much easier to understand than what people on the street say! As soon as you feel confident enough, you can also write a comment or reply to one and feel the excitement of being in a real conversation with native speakers of your target language!
These are some of the ways in which Instagram has helped me improve my English and German skills, and I can’t wait to hear about your experiences. Can you think of any additional ways in which social media can assist you in your language learning journey?
