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.

One Month Basque Boost: kick off

By Dr Popkins 2 Comments

Kaixo denei Londresetik! I've just had some exciting news: I'm going to be in a Basque TV programme. The crew is coming to shoot at the end of August. That's great motivation for me as an intermediate level Basque learner to put my foot on the gas during the next four weeks. In this post I'm launching my "One month Basque Boost" mini project (scroll right down for launch … [Read more...]

Language momentos (1): finding a room with basic German

By Dr Popkins Leave a Comment

This is the first occasional post in which I'll be sharing personal stories from my language learning life.  Highs or lows, big or small, they're some of the things I have in mind when I say that languages have enriched my life so much. I hope they'll help inspire you to get started or to keep going on your own language journey. It's often those small practical triumphs when … [Read more...]

How to remember the gender of Welsh nouns and when it matters

By Dr Popkins 25 Comments

This is the first in a new series: "Gender Mender" in which I'll be helping you master using gender in different languages and showing you tricks to remember the gender of nouns. We're starting with a look at how Welsh noun gender works and how to remember the genders of Welsh nouns. Learning the system can be a real headache for two reasons. First, you just have to clamp the … [Read more...]

Which German language certificate is best?

By Dr Popkins 31 Comments

You want to know what's the best German language exam for you in 2024? Read on! This post lifts the lid on the range of German as a foreign language proficiency certification options. You'll find essential info on each to help you choose the right exam. You may need a German language certificate as a prerequisite to matriculation at a German university. Maybe you want to live … [Read more...]

Stuggling to read in your foreign language? These three tips will help smooth the way

By Dr Popkins Leave a Comment

Reading in your foreign language can bring real benefits, even if your main goal is to speak. That was my argument in article that kicked off this series on reading and...my view hasn't changed :)  What, though, if you're struggling to read in a foreign language? Here are three tips that will help smooth the way. Keep it short You started learning French because you wanted to … [Read more...]

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