How to learn languages with YouTube

YouTube is an excellent and free source to learn many languages. Let’s see how you can make the most out of it.

Language channels

The most obvious way to start is to look for teachers making videos to explain the language you’re learning. Look for those that teach at your level. Some will include numbers, like ‘lesson number 1.’ Here’s a list of channels to start with.

Music
Audience in a music show
Listen to what musicians say in between songs live. ©

One of the biggest parts of YouTube is about music. Why wouldn’t you combine the pleasure of listening to a genre you like with language learning? Make sure to look up the lyrics. Some people make videos with the lyrics in the videos, others put the lyrics in the description.

Comments

Whether you’re on a language learning channel or just enjoying a song, why not put a comment at the end of the video? Some teachers or others might  correct you. For free.

News

Journalists try to use simple language to reach a wide audience. So tune in to the latest news. Plus, you’ll see images so you can relate the words you hear to the things you see. Also check if there’s a kid’s section.

Subtitles

Check in the videos if there are subtitles. Put them in the language you’re learning. Also watch videos in another language you don’t understand, and put the subtitles in the language you’re learning.

Language settings

Change your language settings in the language you’re learning. This will force you to use the language. Also, change your location (here’s how). By changing the language settings and your location, you’ll increase chances the ads will appear in the language you’re learning.