8 reasons why listening to podcasts improves your English
When you’re learning a new language, listening to the language daily improves fluency and boosts confidence. This makes podcasts a valuable tool for language learners.
How do podcasts improve your English?
So, why spend time listening to podcasts? Here are eight great reasons why you should use podcasts to help improve your English speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.
1. Podcasts are free!
There are thousands of free podcasts recorded in English. They can be downloaded and often come with free transcripts, essential vocabulary and phrases. These free podcasts include topics such as news and current affairs, comedy, interviews, and conversation, true crime, and self-improvement.
By listening to podcasts with authentic content, such as news and current affairs, you will learn to communicate in a variety of situations and with different types of people.
2. You listen to real English
With podcasts you hear how English is actually spoken by native speakers in real-life situations. This includes slang, idioms, and cultural nuances that may not be taught in formal language classes. Listening to "real English" instead of just textbook English has many benefits.
Listening to “Real English” helps you:
Improve your listening skills: You will become more accustomed to the natural pace, intonation, and rhythm of spoken English.
Expand your vocabulary: You will encounter many new words and phrases in authentic contexts. This will improve your understanding and ability to express yourself effectively
Understand grammar: You will hear examples of grammatical structures and sentence patterns used in natural communication. This will help you understand the rules of grammar more intuitively and apply them correctly in your own writing and speaking.
Be culturally aware: You will be exposed to the cultural aspects of the language, such as social norms, customs, and values. You will also hear different accents, dialects, and communication styles. Understanding these cultural differences is essential for you to communicate and interact with native speakers.
Increased fluency: Regular exposure to real English helps your become more fluent in the language by building confidence and familiarity with common phrases and expressions.
3. You learn at your own speed
Learning at your own speed has several benefits. It allows you to take control of your learning journey and customize your experience. You set your own goals and achieve them in your own time. This reduces stress and anxiety associated with strict deadlines. You can also take breaks when needed.
Having more control helps you stay motivated and enjoy the learning experience. You can also choose when and where to study based on your schedule and preferences.
4. Podcasts can be slowed down
Many podcasts allow you to slow down and speed up the audio. This means you can listen at your own pace, as many times as you want.
Slowing down the podcast is really helpful as native English speakers can talk very quickly. Different accents, dialects, and communication styles can be confusing. They may sound odd when you do this, but it is easier than rewinding every few minutes to hear the word or phrase you missed.
5. Many podcasts are less than 30 minutes
Shorter English language podcasts offer a practical and effective way for you to include language practice into your daily life. They are often short enough to fit in with your busy schedule, such as during a commute or lunch break.
Shorter podcasts can help you maintain focus throughout the entire episode. This leads to better comprehension and retention of the material presented.
6. Accessible 24/7
Podcasts are available from your smartphone or computer 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This allows you to listen to them at a time that fits in with your busy schedule.
7. Downloadable
Many podcasts can be downloaded to your phone or computer. This allows you to listen to them offline, as many times as you like, and anywhere that is convenient to you.
Listening more often leads to more consistent progress and success in language acquisition.
8. There are thousands of podcasts to choose from
Whatever topics or subjects interest you there are thousands of podcasts to meet your needs. Our advice is to test out a few different ones and see what works for you.
There are two types of English podcasts to learn with:
Podcasts that teach the language you’re learning: If you’re just starting out, at beginner level, you will probably want to go with these. They speak English slowly and explain the grammar and vocabulary in more detail.
Podcasts recorded in the language you’re learning: For intermediate or above English learners try more advanced content, especially as there are so many great shows in English. They will expose you to real-life spoken English, expand your vocabulary, English pronunciation and give you cultural insights.
Where to find English podcasts
Today there are thousands of podcasts to choose from via the internet or on your smartphone. With so many to choose from the easiest way to find podcasts, organize episodes you want to listen to, and download them is via a dedicated podcast app.
Apple, Spotify, and YouTube Music are the leading apps, but there are many others to pick from. The best podcast apps come with personalized playlists, offline listening, bonus content, and more. Some apps offer free subscription.
Be aware some apps are not free and only offer a free trial and require a monthly subscription. Depending on the podcast you're searching for it may be possible to access episodes for free from their website.
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Listen to our podcasts…
All our podcasts are free, less than 20 minutes and can be downloaded. They all have transcripts with additional vocabulary and phrases. There are more to choose from here…
