Free alternatives to FluentU
This is a free google chrome extension that you can use to learn the same way as FluentU if you have Netflix. There is a new version that works with Youtube too.
Watch videos on Youtube with subtitles in your own language and the language that you are learning.
Other features of FluentU
There are some other small features that are included in FluentU
Audio
There are only 4 audios at the current moment to learn English so it is not really an added feature. If you want to improve your listening skills, try the Espresso English listening course.
Flashcards
I personally hate flashcards. It is the most boring way to learn new vocabulary. Learning words without context is a terrible way to learn a new word. What is the point in learning the meaning of a new word if you don’t know how to use it? Learning new vocabulary with a friend or a teacher is so much more fun and it is much more likely that you will remember the new vocabulary too. People learn through emotional connection.
Points and Streaks
This is what is known as the gamification of learning a language. The more points you get, the more English you know. In reality, this is irrelevant. Many language learners use systems like FluentU and Duolingo and earn many “points” but can’t have a short conversation with another person. Streaks mean that you learn a certain number of days in a row. It is a much better goal to try and reach a new level of English.
Is FluentU worth it? Is it good?
No, FluentU is not worth paying for. I use a similar method as one way that I study but it is free. You can find the video that I made explaining this method and I believe it is better and more interesting. Speaking practice and grammar are the most important parts of learning English and FluentU does not do a good job helping the learner to improve their skills/knowledge.
Speaking and Listening in real-time(I mean having a real conversation) is the most important part of learning English. This is followed by understanding grammar. If you speak English regularly and study grammar, you will learn vocabulary in a more natural way. This method of study(watching videos) is the least effective way to learn English so only do this when you first have a routine of speaking English and studying grammar.