Any new skill takes time and energy to learn and master, especially when it comes to learning a new language. It’s absolutely normal to be intimidated at first! However – as you begin with the process, you will realize that not only does it get easier, it gets much more enjoyable as you establish your foundation of knowledge in a different language.
As a prerequisite to work in Germany as a nurse, Care With Care candidates must speak German at the B1 level and, if they wish to become a registered nurse, must speak at a B2 level. Most candidates pass their B1 exam in their home country and then obtain a B2 certificate when in Germany, unless they already have one.
At Care With Care, we believe in excellence and simplicity. Our aim is to help you clear your exams faster, motivate you to learn the language better and absorb the nuances of the job easily! We have collated a list of some tips and methods that work wonderfully, when you are learning German.
1. Create a schedule (and stick to it!)
Start by establishing how much time you want to make available for learning German. Remember, your proficiency in a new language is directly proportional to the amount of time you spend learning and practicing. Consistently block out part of your day that is dedicated to learning and studying German. Experts agree that a minimum of 6-7 hours per week is best, but choose what works for you. Try to arrange these for the times of day when you are most productive and fresh. For example, some people are very energized and efficient in the morning, while others focus more effectively in the afternoon or evening. Beware! Frequent interruptions can eat into your time and energy. Keep your phone on silent and switch off distractions. Sit in a calm, comfortable area that is clean and decluttered. This will keep your head clear and help you stay motivated for your +1hr of studying.
2. Find a tune or two
Listening to music helps relax the mind and body and is fun. So, why not use it as a way to learn your new language? Not only are songs packed with vocabulary and grammar, but studies show that music taps into our memory using melody and storytelling which makes it easier to remember. Here is a list of five German songs which are fun and uplifting! Try to understand and groove to the lyrics. Before you know it, you will have mastered a whole new set of words without even realizing it, as well as learned something about the culture.
3. Netflix is your new best friend
Who doesn’t love a movie night-in with pop-corn? Movies are a great way to learn the language and add variety to traditional study methods, which can become a little monotonous after a while. Find movies or shows that interest you, which will help you stay engaged. Using subtitles is fine, but eventually try to watch content that you can follow without translation. Pro tip: start with kid’s shows! The slow and simple sentence structures will help boost your language confidence in the beginning. Check out this list of exciting German movies which will make sure you learn the language and its nuances, while having fun.
4. Review, review and review!
Okay, so this actually has scientific evidence behind it. It’s called the spaced repetition system! Spaced repetition systems are a way of committing things to memory that is based on the spacing effect. The spacing effect is the idea that things are better learned in the long term if you repeatedly do them, or go over them, over a long period of time, leaving spacing in between each session. So, pick 2-3 times per day to review your notes such as after waking up, before sleeping, or before a meal. Your brain will get used to this rhythm and start to commit your notes to memory!
5. Find a tandem partner (previously Be confident and relax!)
Learning to read and write in a new language is great, but if you are going to be employed in a new country you will eventually need to know how to hear and speak the language effectively. One of the best ways to practice this is to find a tandem partner who will sit with you once a week to have a casual conversation in your new language. In the beginning, speaking a new language can feel awkward and embarrassing, which makes us avoid it altogether. We are usually our own worst critic so it’s important to be kind to ourselves and remember that we are learning a whole new language. Undoubtedly your tandem partner will understand this too, so you really can just relax and have fun.
6. The Internet makes it easy…Keep a list (and Google it!)
Googling is a solution to all your doubts – yes…even the ones that involve your new language. During your studies, or when you’re listening to entertainment in our new language, you will frequently come across words or terms that are new to you. When you are unsure, write down the word or phrase and turn to the internet! Some of our favorites translation apps include DeepL, Google Translate, and Lion. This will not only increase your word bank, but it will boost your confidence and speed over time.
7. Mock tests make it easy:
It’s no surprise that practice makes perfect. We recommend that you take plenty of practice tests which will help you identify your mistakes, understand your strengths and direct your practice accordingly. In a study on mock exams, researchers actually found that students who did a practice test after a period of review did better on the final exam than those students who didn’t participate in the mock exam but only reviewed. So, practice tests are basically your key to performing well when it’s time to take the real exams! Here is a list of our favorite resources for mock tests.
Our website is well-equipped with tips and information for you, to understand the language training process and help you with it.
Once you are enrolled in our program Care With Care is here to support you unconditionally! Here are some ways we will help:
Care With Care has 10 years experience supporting candidates in their language journey. We help you find the best program that fits your needs and schedule and will award a substantial financial bonus after you have passed your employer’s probationary period and your B2 exam in Germany.
Care With Care will cover your study and examination cost for the B2 exam. This will help you achieve the B2 certificate and you can begin working as a registered nurse. That actually means a higher compensation and a better position!
Our team members are always here to help answer your questions and provide expert support whether you are just starting out or close to mastering your new language.
We hope this helped you understand the small ways in which you can easily make learning German easier, simpler and fun. Require further guidance or have comments? Reach us without hesitation! Email us at: (candidates@carewithcare.com)
Happy to hear from you!
Your CWC Team
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