In recent years, true crime podcasts have gone from niche to norm, captivating listeners worldwide with their mysteries and captivating narratives. An unexpected benefit? They can be an engaging learning tool that you can use improve your language skills can.
Here’s our handy guide to diving into the world of true crime podcasts while supporting your language learning journey.
How true crime podcasts can improve your language skills
What makes true crime podcasts so compelling? The answer lies in their intricate plots, complex characters and expert analysis that make listeners feel like they are part of the investigation. Additionally, unlike other forms of media, podcasts allow you to immerse yourself in a story while commuting, cooking, exercising, or relaxing at home.
But the “benefits” of true crime podcasts don’t stop at entertainment – these addictive radio dramas can also be a tool for improving your language skills. Here are just a few examples of this:
- Improve your listening skills: With clear narration and detailed descriptions, podcasts are perfect for practicing active listening. You’ll hear a range of accents, tones, and vocabulary that will help you speak more confidently.
- Expand your vocabulary: As you listen to each episode, you’ll come across a wealth of new words and phrases. From legal jargon to everyday expressions, this exposure can greatly improve your understanding.
- Gain cultural insights: True crime podcasts often highlight various aspects of society and culture and provide valuable insights into the world of language. This cultural context can deepen your understanding of the language and the nuances of the country in which it is spoken.
- Improve your speaking skills: As you discuss the cases with friends or in online communities, you practice expressing your thoughts and opinions in your target language. This will help you build confidence in your conversation skills.
How to Use True Crime Podcasts to Learn
So how can you make the most of true crime podcasts for language learning? Here are some tips:
- Take notes: Write down unfamiliar words and phrases you hear and look them up later to understand their meaning and usage.
- Repeat and imitate: Listen to sections of your favorite podcast several times and try to imitate the speakers’ pronunciation and intonation.
- Discuss with friends: Share episodes with friends to discuss the cases. This can improve your conversation skills and help you express your opinions.
- Use transcripts: If available (and if you’re not driving!), read along with the podcast transcripts. This will help you understand the content better and improve your reading skills.
4 true crime podcasts you should put on your list
To help you get started on your true crime podcast journey, here are a few recommendations for English learners (that won’t give you nightmares!):
1. Serial
The groundbreaking true crime podcast. Journalist Sarah Koenig investigates the murder of a popular senior and questions the conviction of her classmate and ex-boyfriend.
2. Sweet Bobby
“Sweet Bobby” is an award-winning investigative series that tells the story of a complex catfishing scam and explores the themes of deception and trust in the digital age.
3. The Dropout
“The Dropout” examines the spectacular rise and fall of the world’s youngest self-made billionaire, a Stanford dropout who duped investors with her startup.
4. The Shrink Next Door
In 14 episodes, columnist Joe Nocera reveals the shocking truth about his neighbor’s transformation from a seemingly respectable psychiatrist to a fugitive.
Grab your headphones, pick a podcast and immerse yourself in real-life mysteries, investigations and courtroom dramas – an exciting way to improve your language skills.
Not a fan of true crime but curious about the world of podcasts? Here are some interesting options English and Spanish.
