How to get fluent, with Dr Popkins

How to learn a foreign language. Methods, matrials and stories to help you maximise your effectiveness on the road to fluency

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In-depth explorations, actionable tips and inspiring conversations for language learners who REALLY want to get fluent…..plus a little bit of fun along the way.

Language Learner's Year Compass

Language Learner’s Year Compass 2026

By Dr Popkins Leave a Comment

The end of the old year is a natural time to reflect on the past twelve months. It’s also a time when many of us want to make a fresh start and do some looking ahead. In the last week, two friends have separately drawn my attention to a free tool to help with this. […]

Dr Popkins standing beside a Christmas tree at the London Basque Society festive meal, community hall in background

Christmas YouTube videos to stay engaged with your language

By Dr Popkins Leave a Comment

At this busy time of year, I have to admit that the regular daily focussed language study sessions that are usually central to my language learning life have rather fallen by the wayside.  You know the story: work, life, seasonal festivities ramping up.  However busy I get, though, I do keep listening to my languages: German, Basque and Welsh radio daily […]

What Angkor Wat can teach you about learning a language

Good Friday in 20+ European languages — and a tip for smarter vocab learning

Language learner talking to herself

Talking to yourself to learn a language?

German accusative case (one stop shop)

German nominative case (made clear)

fix foreign language mistakes

How to find and fix mistakes in your foreign language speaking and writing

Polyglot Gathering daily vlogs

Five fun Christmas foreign language practice ideas

A fun little vocab and writing skills project

Goethe-Institut German A1 exam explained

Best German series on Netflix for keen learners (2025)

Enhancing the rhythm of your language learning year

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