The Portuguese language has been rapidly growing throughout the last few years, and has become the fastest growing Western language after English. It is estimated that by 2050 Portuguese-speaking African countries will have a combined population of 83 million. Although, it’s not just Africa where the language is becoming useful. Surprisingly, the language is also playing a part in one of the fastest growing economies in the world, China – as well as places across the Far East.
There are numerous online learning tools available to you if you’re interested in learning any language. There is no need to physically go to language classes. You can even learn on the go using apps on your phone or through the use of videos and podcasts. This article contains a list of resources and ways for you to learn Portuguese online.
Here are some of the most popular methods of online learning:
- Online Media Platforms
- Mobile Apps
- Online Courses
- Reading Material
- Podcasts
Online Media Platforms
There’s no shortage of online learning resources you can use to aid in your learning. The most obvious one is YouTube which is full of millions of free videos. So, you’re bound to find a channel that’s dedicated to learning Portuguese or just languages in general. A good channel I’ve come across is one called Learn Portuguese. They update pretty regularly and have some good lengthy videos providing you with tips and tricks both for beginners and the advanced learners. Have a look around and you’ll find plenty more amazing channels and videos.
Netflix is also a great streaming platform to consider, filled to the brim with an extensive library of movies and TV shows. The great thing about the streaming platform is that no matter what your favourite genre is, you will find it on Netflix. Watch the shows with English subtitles at first. This will help you to familiarise yourself with certain words and phrases and ensure you’re not completely lost from the beginning. Once you feel comfortable and confident enough in yourself you can switch to Portuguese subtitles. Some binge-worthy shows to get you started are The Mechanism and Invisible City. Both are currently available to stream on Netflix.
Mobile Apps
One of the great things about the internet is the ability to take it with you while you’re on the go. This includes your numerous learning resources. Apps are a great way to study the more repetitive tasks of language learning on the go, such as daily vocabulary lessons. This is something that requires a lot of repetition to remember, as it is the smaller filler words that people are more likely to forget.
Duolingo is a great app to use for beginner learners. As mentioned, it allows you to learn on the go and it helps to teach you the basics, such as simple phrases and vocabulary. Apps work well paired with other learning tools such as online courses, so don’t just rely on a free app.
Online Courses
Online courses are an amazing way to expand your language knowledge. It is a great way for you to learn Portuguese online. We at Learn&Co have numerous professional native speaking tutors with years of knowledge to provide you with the best possible experience. We have beginner classes, as well as ones for more advanced students. One-on-one lessons with our tutors will help you grow your confidence and skills. We will work with you to find the best way of learning to suit you so that you can get the most out of your classes, and will create a tailored lesson plan that will work around your schedule. We pride ourselves on providing you with the best experience possible to unlock your full potential.
Reading Material
Reading is a great way to absorb useful information. It can also aid you in language learning. You can find numerous online copies of your favourite books no matter the genre or language they’re printed in. When learning a new language, consider re-reading your favourite books in your chosen language. As you already know the overall story you won’t feel overly confused. You’ll be able to pick up the meanings of certain words by connecting them to the original version of the book you’ve already read.
Although story books can be fun, consider reading educational books. You’ll be able to also learn various subjects and topics along the way. Also, most educational/learning books are broken up into short sections which will allow you to learn in parts. If you’re struggling with finding a book to start with, consider this PDF of The Black Cat by the infamous American gothic writer and poet Edgar Allan Poe.
Podcasts
Podcasts like mobile apps are portable, able to go with you wherever you go. However the best thing about them has to be that they require no interaction besides you sitting back and listening to them. This means that you can have them playing in the background while driving or even doing tasks around the house. Try finding podcasts about topics that intrigue you and are about things you genuinely want to learn more about. This could be anything from comedy to educational, or just entertaining stories. This form of passive learning will be more suited to an intermediate or advanced learner.
However, if you’re a complete beginner to the language, just having a podcast playing in the background won’t magically allow you to become an expert speaker. As a beginner you’ll need to be more of an “active listener”. Try paying attention to parts of the podcast, the first 30 seconds or just the introduction. Pick out words that you may recognise, like greetings or familiar phrases. Converse with a friend or tutor and work with them to connect more words to help you piece together everything.
Consider listening to some of these amazing podcasts, they are perfect for Portuguese learners to continue learning Portuguese online.
Bacanudo is a fun podcast. The hosts regularly talk about cultural topics, but manage to make it interesting. Luckily for learners the topics covered are pretty well known, from American TV political dramas to live music.
Escriba Café is a super interesting and educational podcast which is great for history buffs. Each episode takes you on a journey through someone’s life or a particular historical place. One intriguing episode describes the life of the early inhabitants of Easter Island, perfectly going through their lifestyle and activities on the historical location.
Conclusion
So there you have it, five online learning resources that you can use to start learning Portuguese. Some will be more suited for intermediate learners and others are better for beginners. Either way, these are great sources. The benefits to learning a new language are endless. Once you’ve learnt your second it’s so much easier to learn a third and even a fourth. There’s no harm in considering becoming bilingual or even trilingual. The paths that will open up to you will definitely be worth the hard work and dedication.
