Some classes at Tomlinscote (and some staff!) are developing a slight addiction to Duolingo - a clever language learning and revision app (available for free, for example from itunes). You can also play online on
www.duolingo.com.
You can choose between several languages, for example Spanish, French, German or Italian. In your first session, you complete a quick initial assessment and then you can practise and revise new skills, from colours and clothes to future tenses and conditionals, so students of all levels will find useful tasks. Before moving on to the more complex skills you need to pass tests, assessing your reading, translating, listening writing and grammar skills, as well as your pronunciaton. (Careful when you have a cold though: it might not understand you very well!)
Although the app gives you some vocab and grammar hints, it is probably better to use it for a language you have already started to learn, rather than attempting a completely new one. However, it is great fun and rather addictive- and your feathery coach will keep you motivated. You can also link with others and compare results. Who will earn the most lingots? Maybe give Portuguese or Dutch a try, if you're feeling really adventurous. By going into your profile you can even learn and revise two or three languages at the same time!
Have fun and let us know how you get on by leaving a comment here!
