How to practice English speaking free and make global friends
When I started learning French language a year ago, I focused only on the reading and writing sections of the language. Hardly had I ventured into the realm of speaking or listening part of French. Three and a half months back I gave my first French test taken by ACTFL* via video conferencing, then I got to know what I did wrong. Though my performance in the reading section was intermediate, it was a great blunder in the listening part where I landed at the lowest ladder.
Then I realized that it’s as much important to practice speaking (and listening) as we practice writing (and reading) while learning a language. A lot of people know how to read and write English efficiently, but when it’s time to speak they will flounder or stagger a lot. Why? Just because they don’t practice speaking very much.
The problem with Non-English countries/regions is that they don’t get enough opportunity to practice English speaking. As English is now ‘Lingua Franca’, it is very essential to have a good speaking/listening part so we present our ideas or thoughts effectively. Needless to say, a lot of apps/sites are available that provide English-speaking practice but they cost a handsome amount in exchange. For example, one of the famous sites Cambly takes around Rs 5000 per month for sessions with native speakers. That’s a good amount for a middle class.
Then, where do we practice English speaking without spending a penny?
Duolingo events are a great platform to practice your speaking and listening skills with other language learners across the world. These events are hosted by either native speakers or someone who knows the language very well. One only needs a gadget and the internet to join these events. They are a free, casual, and good way to learn a language by interacting with others. Choose the language you wish to learn, let’s say English, a list will open for different events in English at different times and dates.
Why should you join these Duolingo events?
1. They are free of cost. Not a single penny you have to spend here.
2. You can learn a language in the luxury of your home. These events happen online via Zoom. Need only one of the following devices: Laptop, smartphone, or tablet.
3. They are casual, entertaining, and educational where you meet learners across the world.
4. Learn a lot with learners who come from different regions, backgrounds, ages, experiences, and skills.
5. No formality. Join and leave whenever you wish during the event.
In the following, I’ve given the instructions about how to join these events:-
1. Go to Learn a language for free and make an account of yours.
2. Then click on an ellipsis at the top bar of the home page and click on Duolingo events.
3. It will take you on Duolingo events page where you will see a number of upcoming events and their details — time and date, the descriptions which tell what will happen during the event, and who is the host.
4. Choose the language you intend to learn and then click on the event that suits your time and date.
5. Push a green button on which is written ‘Reserve stop’ so it will not be full.
6. That’s it. Open your E-mail a few minutes before the time of the event, eventually, it will take you to Duolingo events.
7. At last Press the join meeting button and enjoy the next one hour talking and interacting with other learners across the world.
Thanks for Reading!
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For more information, Go to Duolinogo.com/events
