What I Think About Apps for Learning English

 I Don’t Like Them

For quite a while now, anyone who knows me knows how I feel about language-learning apps. I’ve always said it’s better to learn a language (a living one!) with real, living people—not with apps or machines.

I tried a world-famous app and was disappointed for two reasons:

1. The creators clearly want to make you addicted—they bombard you with automatic reminders.

2. It’s not very effective. They teach you words and even full sentences, but it only works if you repeat them out loud and then actually practice with real people. And very few people do that.

I Changed My Mind

Recently, I was contacted by IStoria—an app that allows children, teens, and even adults to read Oxford Stories in English. Even though I’ve always been skeptical about foreign language apps, I have to admit I was blown away by my contact’s arguments.

Samar used two magic words that completely broke down my resistance: Oxford and Stories. I’ve always been a fan of Oxford University Press, the city of Oxford (which I’ve visited several times), and its prestigious university, which I’ve had the privilege of touring. So an app approved by Oxford? That inspires confidence.

And of course, I love books and stories. So much so that I write them myself.

How Does It Work?

Once you’ve downloaded the IStoria app, you can either start with a placement test or jump straight into Level 1. I recommend the second option for children who are already old enough and able to read in English.

I download the IStoria app here.

The stories in the Oxford Stories series are fantastic for kids. The big advantage is that your children start reading in English—but that’s not all. Before each story, the app introduces vocabulary words and asks whether your child already knows them or if they’re new. Then the reading begins.

Ideally, they should listen to the audio at the same time. They can listen first and then repeat. Afterward, there are comprehension questions. Younger learners can even take a few notes while reading the story. That way, they increase their chances of completing levels successfully.

What I Like About IStoria

What I like about IStoria is that English teachers like me can track the progress of our students. On my dashboard, I can see exactly how my students are doing. I can reward them for their hard work, encourage them (without nagging), and support them when needed.

This app allows my students to read more in English and discover literature they might never have picked up otherwise. At an affordable price, they get access to high-quality educational content that complements my e-learning English lessons and my Zoom classes. And let’s be honest—Oxford is top-tier!

The company itself is thoughtful and genuinely puts people at the heart of learning. As an ambassador for the app, I don’t feel any pressure. I talk about it when I want to and when it feels right. And that’s something I truly appreciate.

What I Don’t Like About IStoria

Nothing—for now. But be mindful of screen time. It absolutely needs to be managed carefully. And I still firmly believe that NOTHING—not even the best app in the world—will ever replace human interaction.

How to Join My Student Group

Click on the invitation link and enter my group name: L4KM (Lessons 4 Kids Margot)

It’s Giveaway Time!

I’m lucky enough to be able to GIVE AWAY 6-month premium subscriptions to 10 students of my choice. I reached out to my own students first, then shared the invitation on my Instagram account @english.french.with.margot.

As I’m writing this, there are still 3 spots left for the last three lucky students. If you’re too late, don’t worry—you’ll still get a great discount on the subscription with my promo code L4KM, and you’ll still be part of my student group.

I’ve also decided to create a new WhatsApp group just for my IStoria students. Send me your phone number by email, and I’ll add you to the group.

So… are you ready to join the IStoria / Oxford adventure?