5 Amazing TV and Radio Shows for Learning German
Looking to learn German? Why not find some great TV and radio shows to help you pick up a little of the language!
You can make notes on new vocabulary or just having something playing in the background to get your ear in. It’s a very convenient way of learning while doing house chores, working out, or even commuting to work.
Why not give it a go? Here are some great TV and radio programs to help you learn German.
Tatort
If you are looking for a series you can get your teeth into, that you don’t have to be worried about getting canceled when you’re only halfway through, try Tatort.
Tatort is a beloved crime drama that has been on German screens since the 70s, with a loyal and passionate following. Think of this as a mixture between all the crime shows you already love; there are elements of CSI and Law and Order for starters, so you know what you’re getting yourself into!
Not only will Tatort expose you to a wide range of German accents and dialects since it jumps from city to city, but because it is such an established show there is a huge fanbase as well. This means you’ll find plenty of people to speak to about this show, subtitles you can trust, and a #tatort hashtag on Twitter to scroll through that will give you even more German to practice with!
There are even quizzes on Tatort’s website for you to practice your knowledge of German (and episodes) with. What are you waiting for?
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Deutschlandfunk
Deutschlandfunk is a great radio station to use if you are looking for German practice, filled with interesting programming that is spoken at a range of speeds in a number of accents. Perhaps better suited to those who are at least intermediate level, Deutschlandfunk covers culture, business, general news, and plenty more subjects of interest besides.
In fact, truly create your own radio experience; Deutschlandfunk comes in three streams, Deutschlandfunk itself, along with Deutschlandfunk Kultur and Deutschlandfunk Nova. You can save programs on the app for later listening, perfect for stopping and starting if you come across unfamiliar words. You can work on subjects like medien and hear game reviews, or just listen live to whatever is currently broadcasting. So much to choose from!
Photo via Flickr
Gute Zeiten, Schlechte Zeiten
Gute Zeiten, Schlechte Zeiten is another long-running beloved series for Germany though, this time, think less crime and more soap!
When the show first aired back in 1992 it was aimed primarily at teenagers and those in their twenties, but now more than 6000 episodes in we think there is something for everyone!
The German spoken is very every-day, very natural, so you won’t be stumped by anything too complicated or any difficult words.
If you’re the kind of viewer who loves things behind the scenes and from-the-set gossip then go over to Youtube and watch this clip from an important wedding. There are thousands of clips out there to practice with; get watching!
Radio Saw
Looking for a German radio station to play in the background as you go about your day? Try Radio Saw!
This radio station broadcasts live so you can just listen along whenever it is convenient, or you can listen to pre-recorded programs like was heisst das auf deutsch (what’s that in German); especially helpful since this program is tailored specifically to German learners.
This is a general run-of-the-mill radio station with a mixture of music, commentary, weather and sports reports, and news. So you will be familiar with the format and know what best to listen out for, for what you want to learn. You will also get used to German turns of phrases and humor as you listen. Why not give Radio Saw a go?
Photo via Pixabay
Dark
You have probably already heard about Dark, Germany’s answer to Stranger Things on Netflix. And if you love gritty series then this is probably a great way to help with your German; you’ll be gripped from episode one and conveniently learning German at the same time! Dark is the story of a missing child and strange goings-on in their home town, which should sound very familiar.
The series comes with a range of subtitles and audio dubs so you can tailor your experience to your specific needs. Give the trailer a watch and see if this is the German learning experience for you.
Radio and TV are great ways to help you with your German learning. What are you going to watch or listen to first?