Thursday, January 10, 2019

And We're Back to Duolingo

So I haven't been back to Duolingo in quite some time. I stopped by now and then but never got serious about it as the Irish course was always way too difficult.... and then they changed it. They must be listening to what people are saying cause they did a big overhaul on the whole system. There is now a lot more repetition. You can't go through the lessons nearly as fast but it is a good thing. You have to go over the lessons several times before it levels up and then it has to level up 5 times to turn it "golden". I am only about a third of the way down my tree now but I feel like I am actually learning now. 
But one of the best things is that the people who were so nasty on the forums are gone. You can go on there, leave a comment, and nobody comes and leaves you an ugly comment back. Of course, they aren't there any more for explanations either but most of the explanations are there in the forum already anyway. I guess they didn't like the changes but I think they are wonderful. 
I have to say though, I don't think you should ever use Duolingo by itself. It doesn't explain anything fully and you will just end up frustrated. Buy Irish textbooks (the kind the kids use in Ireland). They have exercises for you to do that will help a LOT. Also get a grammar book. My next post will be on the one I have begun using. And above all read books in Irish and listen to Irish language shows. It will help you immensely.