Google Language Tools

An article by Darin Wagner    2 Comments

I use Google as my primary web search engine. I am attracted by the site’s simple design, but more importantly for the powerful tools that are readily available. One workshop session I attended at the T+L conference on Wednesday afternoon reminded me of one feature that I had not used recently…

Google offers users the ability to use Language Tools that can translate text typed into the original text field. In the example below, I entered the simple sentence in English and had it translated to Spanish.

In addition to the translation tool for text boxes, Google can also translate web pages. Simply enter the URL of a web site or web page and click the Translate button. This is an example of a news story from MSNBC.

Furthermore, any other page link that a user clicks from the original site will be translated as well!

So, what are the potential application of these built in tools for language teachers?

• Students can practice translating from one language to another, and then use the translation tool to evaluate the results.

• Students could read web site articles in the native language and then check their comprehension after the page has been translated.

So, what are the potential application of these built in tools for ESL/ELL teachers?

• Students can use the tool to translate content into their native language.

• Teachers can use the tool to translate form the native language to English.

What other ways can we use Google Language Tools for instruction and learning? Post your thoughts!