Learning Languages
There are many free resources available online to help you develop foreign language skills, whether you are a total beginner or already have some proficiency. Resources range from simple dictionaries and translators to complete lessons with sound and/or video. I’ve listed links to sites focusing on French, German, Italian and Spanish, but there are many more. And my list is heavy on French, since that’s the language I’ve been focusing on, but this will give you a good sense of all that is available online… and for free!
Word Reference: Online translation dictionaries (Spanish, French, Italian, German, Russian). This is the resource I use when I need a quick translation of just one word.
Phrasebase: A conversational foreign language learning social network, including lessons (40 languages).
Babelfish: Text translation website sponsored by Yahoo. I use this if I need help to write or translate a simple communication. Supports a variety of languages used in Europe.
Word2Word: All kinds of language resources, including links to free lessons in many languages.
BBC Languages: Online courses in French, German, Spanish and Italian, using slide shows and sounds. Great resource for practical tourist needs.
French in Action: A free video-on-demand educational program with 52 different lessons. An excellent resource!
Bonjour: Free website to learn French.
FrenchAssistant: Free online French lessons, with sound.
French Word-a-Day: A periodic newsletter offering a daily word and other vocabulary incorporated into a story (in English) about French life. Written by an American woman living in Provence. I really enjoy these pieces.
About.com – French Language: An extensive resource for learning and improving your French. Includes quizzes, lessons, cultural information, a newsletter and more.
About.com – Italian Language: Free online Italian lessons and resources.
Italy World Club: Free online Italian course for beginners.
Fokus Deutsch: Free online video-on-demand program with 36 episodes.
About.com – German Language: Free online German lessons and resources.
Destinos – An Introduction to Spanish: Free online video-on-demand program with 52 different lessons.
About.com – Spanish Language: Free online Spanish lessons and resources.