Language exchange with native speakers

First of all, if you want to exchange languages, you have to meet someone. Nowadays, thanks to internet this is not difficult. On the other hand, and not less important, the question is what to do when exchanging langagues. Probably, you might consider these points:

• You should find someone with a similar level to yours. Different levels could fail the exchange.
• Talk about common interests: hobbies, travels, culture, sports... Perhaps, you don't know the other's hobby. Although, asking and learning about it could become interesting for you.
• You can teach some grammar points, vocabulary, pronunciation and help solving some doubts.
• You may also exchange videos and articles that could engage your partner.
• It is also attractive to teach idioms and quotes.
• Correct your partner. Even though, not too much, not all the time. It could be boring and prevent fluency.
• In addition, everyone likes to talk about their countries, habits, people in their countries, popular gastronomy, history...

I hope these tips are a good starting point for you language exchange. If you want to share your suggestions and experiences, just post a comment below.

You can contact native speakers and make new friends from all around the world in Babelan. Check it out.

Documentaries in English

If you learn English, you probably know that there hundreds of sources on internet to listen to English audios and videos. For instace, BBC produces astonishing documentaries which are excellent. And those are great tools to listen to English.

Those who has got an intermediate level or higher and like science and technology will enjoy the documentaries recomended bellow. They are a fair way to improve the listening skills. One of them, 'Wonders of the Solar System', has captions in Spanish.

If you know more interesting videos or podcasts, please, post a comment and leave a link. On the other hand, if you want to meet native speakers and practice languages visit Babelan.


The Virtual Revolution (Web)

The Virtual Revolution is a British television documentary series presented by Aleks Krotoski, which began airing on BBC Two on 30 January 2010. A co-production between the BBC and the Open University, the series looks at the impact the World Wide Web has had since its inception 20 years ago.

Links to watch:
1. The Great Levelling?
2. Enemy of the State?
3. The Cost of Free
4. Homo Interneticus?

Wonders of the Solar System (Web)

Wonders of the Solar System is an award-winning 2010 television series co-produced by the BBC and Science Channel, and hosted by physicist Brian Cox. Wonders of the Solar System was first broadcast in the United Kingdom on BBC Two on 7 March 2010. The series comprises five episodes, each of which focuses on an aspect of the Solar System and features a 'wonder' relevant to the theme. The series was described as one of the most successful to appear on BBC Two in recent years.

Links to watch:
1. Empire of the Sun
2. Order out of Chaos
3. The Thin Blue Line
4. Dead or Alive
5. Aliens