YouTube is a fantastic resource to learn Russian and here’s a list of nine of the channels you should absolutely check out. Most offer a mix of more formal lessons, monologues, conversations and vlogs. Two of the channels focus on vox pops out and about with native Russians. This post is aimed mainly at beginner and lower intermediate Russian learners. True, most of the … [Read more...]
German grammar guide: topics you need to know (with key terms)
Here is your overview German grammar guide with links to my essential guides to individual topics. As we go, I'll bust the jargon and explain English and German grammatical terms you need. The final section below includes links to level-by-level breakdowns of the grammar you'll typically meet as you move from beginner, to upper beginner, to intermediate German learner and … [Read more...]
Learn German grammar: why and how?
“Do I need to learn German grammar”? "Is German grammar important?" Those are question we often ask ourselves as beginner - and intermediate - German learners. The answer is “yes, but”. This post explains why grammar matters but also how it can get in the way if you don’t approach it right. "Ok, so if I really do need it, how do I learn German grammar?" You’ll discover the … [Read more...]
The Goethe-Institut German A2 exam explained
If you want the Goethe-Institut German A2 exam clearly explained, you're in the right place. In this post we'll unpick the format of this important "upper beginner" German language exam. We'll get clear on just what the A2 test German exam itself involves. That'll help you decide whether it's for you. You'll get a better sense of what you need to achieve to pass this … [Read more...]
Kyiv, Kiev, Odesa, Odessa
It's getting lighter here in the evenings at last...literally, if not metaphorically. For the last two weeks, I've been glued to the news sites and social media, following the horrific events in Ukraine. I've also been in contact with some of Russian and Ukrainian friends I've made over the years. When I first visited Russia … [Read more...]