The internet provides an overwhelming amount of information, presenting both advantages and disadvantages. In language learning, it offers immense opportunities if used wisely, though managing information overload can be challenging. Various websites cater to German language learners, offering self-study materials like quizzes, listening exercises, and grammar presentations.
5 useful websites for German learners
Thanks to the internet, the amount of information available today is practically infinite. Like everything else, this has both advantages and disadvantages. When it comes to language learning, the internet offers tremendous opportunities. Of course, this is only true if we know how to use the information wisely and don’t get lost in the information overload, which, let’s admit, is not an easy task. There are numerous websites for learning German which can help you progress. They offer various self-study materials, including quizzes, listening exercises, grammar presentations, and more. In this article, I have gathered five that I find very useful and personally use the most.
5 useful websites for German learners
- Deutsche Welle
One of my personal favorites is the Deutsche Welle (DW) website at https://www.dw.com/de/deutsch-lernen/s-2055 because it offers meticulously crafted learning materials, articles, and videos from beginner to C1/C2 levels. On the DW site, you can also find original miniseries with 5-6 minute videos suitable for both beginners and advanced learners. For beginners, the Nicos Weg series provides short videos that can easily be integrated into your daily schedule. At the end of each episode, you can test your knowledge with short and interactive questions.
The site also features the latest news in German, categorized by topic and geographical region. However, what I often find the most useful is DeutschXXL, where a complete “lesson package” is available for each video, including tasks, transcripts, and vocabulary lists. You can complete the exercises online or download them in PDF format.
Additionally, the site has a podcast that covers current topics, perfect for listening on Spotify, even while cooking. Transcripts for the podcast topics are also available on the website.
2. EasyGerman (https://www.easygerman.org/)
The creators of Easy German are Janusz and Cari, two kind and positive individuals. In their videos, they often interview ordinary people on various topics or explain grammar concepts. I recommend their videos because the available topics are extremely diverse. Not only can you gain insight into the everyday lives and thoughts of people in the German-speaking world, but you can also listen to and learn frequently used expressions and phrases. Their YouTube channel has over 1.8 million subscribers. The videos vary in length, ranging from 10-minute videos to half-hour ones.
3. Deutsch mit Marija (https://www.youtube.com/c/DeutschmitMarija)
I discovered the Deutsch mit Marija YouTube channel while preparing for my advanced language exam. What appealed to me right away was Marija’s warm personality, and her channel not only provides a range of exam tips and materials but also offers numerous explanations on grammar and vocabulary. I especially suggest her channel for those who are at an advanced level in language learning.
4. Kurzgesagt
I recommend Kurzgesagt videos primarily for advanced language learners. Kurzgesagt is a German animation and design studio, and its YouTube channel focuses on minimalist animated educational content. It delves into scientific, technological, political, philosophical, and psychological topics concisely and comprehensibly, packaging them in interesting narratives. The visual aesthetics of the videos and the engaging storytelling are also one-of-a-kind, making them perfect for evening relaxation. You can find the channel here: https://www.youtube.com/c/KurzgesagtDE.
5. Deutsch-lernen.com
Deutsch-lernen.com is more practical than the previous websites. It summarizes the essential grammar points in ten lessons for beginners and 24 lessons for advanced learners. Associated with each lesson, you can find tasks of varying difficulty. The courses are free, but registration on the website is required.