I will talk about where to look for a language exchange partner, what to expect from them, how to set goals, where to meet them, and what to do, to help you get a clear idea about the role of a language exchange partner by the end of this article.
Most language learners get excited when they first hear about language exchange opportunities. They are convinced they hit the jackpot because they have just found a free teacher.
But as they meet the native speaker and they ask grammar questions they get frustrated because they are not able to answer them. And this works the opposite way too. A lot of people back out from opportunities for language exchange because they are afraid they wouldn’t be able to provide such information.
So what can you do to avoid dissapointment and get the most out of your language exchange?
If you already are practicing with someone, please share your experience below, others who are about to take this step would love to hear about it!
I want you to challenge your idea of the role of a language exchange partner. Think about them as a safe space to practice what you have already learned with a reliable source (aka native speaker) instead of a place to learn. And instead of carrying the burden of being a teacher and feeling like you have to make a lesson plan, simply provide fun conversations.
What to expect:
If you are only considering language exchange for the first time, some insider info on what to expect:
Some people won’t stick with you for too long and that’s ok. Some of the people you set up a language exchange plan with might disappear, but you can also gain valuable connections and friendships through it.
You have to be flexible and don’t get discouraged if your tandem partner goes back to their country or doesn’t have time anymore.
It’s great because it’s free, you can settle on the conditions and look for somebody who fits your expectations but it requires flexibility on your part as well.
There are so many things that I like about language exchange. One of them is, it’s convenient because you can always make it work for your schedule.
Where to look for language exchange partners:
If you google language exchange you will find tons of different sites that are basically like online dating sites but for language learning.
Facebook groups are also great. Try searching for “language exchange + your city”. Every bigger city should have a bigger or smaller group dedicated to people looking for language exchange partners. If it doesn’t work try “expats + your city” or “your target language +your city” , so basically look for any group where you can find foreign people living in your country.
Embassies and cultural centers. Talk to people at such places, ask them if they know anybody, or if you can put an announcement on their board to look for a partner or you can try their Facebook page and groups as well.
Schools where they host exchange students. Go to schools where you know they have foreign students and ask them the same questions as above.
Goals for a language exchange:
- Set goals/expectations
- Set time dedicated to both languages
It is very important to set your expectations for yourself and for the other partner as well. What do you expect from them? Do you want to get feedback or just talk? Do you want to practice specific things, like grammar tenses, or pronunciation? Make sure you talk about your expectations before you start. This is something I wish I had done starting out because I feel like I could have gotten even more out of my exchanges this way.
- put what you have learned by yourself to practice in a real-life conversation
- what to do: Give them example sentences using a grammar rule you want to ask about and ask them to correct it
- improving pronunciation:
- what to do: First ask them to say things, repeat them, then ask them to correct words that they can’t understand, and lastly make them correct you every time your accent is off.
- just speaking, maintaining your level
- what to do: Pick an activity from my list of Activities to do with a language exchange partner
- learning about the culture of the country where they speak the language
- what to do: In this case, look for a friend kind of relationship. Ask them to introduce you to other native speakers as well, and join them for celebrations and social gatherings.
It is absolutely ok in my opinion to shift your focus and expectations further down the road, but you have to be intentional about them.
Make sure you agree on a timeframe that each of you has to practice as well, so it is balanced. Half an hour, 45 minutes, or an hour for both of you, it doesn’t matter and can vary each time based on your availability but make sure you time it.
I think it is good to have a get-to-know-each-other meeting before you start the exchange. When you first meet, don’t set time for practice yet, talk freely about why you learn the language and what you want to achieve with this cooperation.
Places where you could meet for language exchange:
- Parks: Get some fresh air, and have a nice conversation.
- Library: Find a corner where you can sit comfortably. This is a good option for cold, rainy weather.
- Coffee shop: Get a refreshing iced coffee or a warm drink and cozy up.
- Beach: Cool yourself down and improve your language skills at the same time!
- Bar (a great first meeting place): A glass of wine or a good beer can help you overcome your fears.
- Tea place: Nice warm place as a plan b in case it rains or even plan a.
- Hotel lobby: It might have a more formal atmosphere but it is free, so in case you don’t want to spend money, it’s a great option for cold weather.
I don’t suggest inviting them to your place or going to theirs for safety reasons!
Things you can learn from a native speaker language exchange partner:
- Correct pronunciation
- Feedback on your speaking skills
- Slang, colloquial terms and phrases
- Cultural differences: food, music, dance, way of thinking…
I hope that by the time you get to this part of the article you have a clearer vision when it comes to your goal with this and you are intentional about approach.
And now that you are all ready to have a successful language exchange, here is my other article about some exercises and activities you can do together:
Activities to do with a language exchange partner
Don’t want to miss out on any useful language exchange ideas? Follow The Language Code on Facebook and Pinterest
Have fun practicing,
Zsófi
Where did you look for a language exchange partner? Where did you guys meet? Was it successful? Write me a message here or comment to share with others!
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