Master a New Language Without Breaking the Bank

Learning a new language doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, I am currently learning the Korean language with my last class being scheduled today. While premium apps, private tutors, and immersion trips are great, they’re not the only ways to become fluent.

Whether you’re picking up Spanish, French, or Korean, here are some budget-friendly strategies to help you master a new language without emptying your wallet.

#1: FREE LANGUAGE APPS

There’s no shortage of free apps to help you learn a language at your own pace. Duolingo, Memrise, and Clozemaster offer interactive exercises, vocabulary drills, and gamified lessons—all for free!

Want something more structured? The free version of Anki lets you create personalized flashcards to reinforce learning.

#2: YOUTUBE UNIVERSITY

Forget expensive courses as YouTube is a goldmine of language-learning resources. Channels like “Learn French with Alexa” or “Spanish with Paul” offer free lessons for beginners to advanced learners.

The best part? You can rewind, slow down, or replay tricky sections until you nail the pronunciation.

#3: PODCASTS AND AUDIOBOOKS

Turn your daily commute or workout into a language lesson with free podcasts. “Coffee Break Languages” and “Duolingo Podcast” provide engaging and practical lessons.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

If you love stories, try listening to audiobooks in your target language. Start with children’s books for simple vocabulary and work your way up.

#4: LANGUAGE EXCHANGE

Who needs pricey tutors when you can swap skills for free? Apps like Tandem, HelloTalk, or Speaky connect you with native speakers who want to learn your language. It’s a win-win: you teach them, they teach you, and you both improve for free!

#5: LIBRARIES

Local libraries often have free language books, audiobooks, and even access to digital learning platforms. Don’t overlook free government and university websites as many offer full language courses at no cost.

#6: SPEAK IT EVERY DAY

Practice speaking as much as possible. Narrate your daily routine, describe objects around you, or even talk to yourself in the mirror. If you’re too shy, voice message yourself or use AI chatbots designed for language learners.

#7: WRITE IT DOWN

Journaling in your target language is a great way to reinforce what you’ve learned. Start with a simple sentence each day and gradually add more detail. Not sure if your grammar is correct? Use free tools like Grammarly or LanguageTool to check your work.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

IN A NUTSHELL

Fluency doesn’t require a fortune. Instead, it needs consistency, creativity, and smart use of free resources. With these budget-friendly methods, you’ll be chatting like a native in no time!

So, what language are you learning next?

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Secondary School Students To Receive Digital Learning Device By 2021: Brand New iPads & Apple Pencils For Some

Last year, the Parliament brought the 2028 Digital Learning Device plan to 2021. All secondary school students will be equipped with a digital learning device by the end of 2021. This initiative aims to improve the digital literacy of today’s children.

Not only will the devices enhance their learning experience, but also support the Ministry’s plan to implement the Blended Learning. The Ministry plans to implement Blended Learning in all secondary schools, junior colleges, and the Millennia Institute in Term 3 of 2021. The Blended Learning incorporates the regularly scheduled home-based learning (HBL) days.

The digital learning devices will support the virtual lesson plans and allow the teachers to personalize the students’ learning experience.

EDUSAVE AND DIGITAL LEARNING DEVICES

According to the Ministry of Education (MOE), payment for these devices will be covered through Edusave. The Government added a S$200 top-up in April 2020. This will total to about S$75 million.

Those who need financial assistance will receive help. Students who come from lower-income households will get further subsidies to ensure that their out-of-pocket cost is S$0.

EDUCATION AS A GREAT EQUALIZER

One of the biggest issues to solve on a global level are class divisions. Singapore is not immune to this. Thus, MOE promised that students from lower-income households will not be disadvantaged.

Moreover, the MOE is making investments by setting up the National Institute of Early Childhood Development. We all know how important early childhood is to a person’s life.

DIGITAL LEARNING DEVICE UPDATES
(Disclaimer: Some secondary school students may be given different learning devices apart from Apple iPads.)

MARCH 2021

Riverside Secondary School previously posted that their Secondary 2 students received their personal learning devices. The iPad came with an Apple Pencil and a Logitech keyboard case to allow students to fully utilize their tablet for their learning.

Image Credits: facebook.com/RiversideSS/posts/1190034841452870

SEPTEMBER 2021

Yuhua Secondary School students received their brand-new personal devices and could not hide their excitement behind their masks. Since the sole purpose of the tablets is education, a device management software was installed. Students will not be able to play games such as PUBG during their lectures.

Image Credits: facebook.com/yuhuass/posts/1722476201285788

Sources: 1 & 2

 

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