How to use Archipelago
A step by step guide to getting the most out of story retelling.
1. Choose a story
Open the Library and browse by category. Each category contains stories on a specific topic (Cars, Food, Law, etc.). Select a difficulty that suits you: Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced. Click any story card to open it.
2. Read and record
On the Presentation Page you will see your story one sentence at a time in your native language. Read it carefully. Then record yourself retelling that sentence in your target language. Work through all 5 sentences. If you get stuck, tap the eye icon to reveal the target language translation, but try to avoid it!
3. Review and compare
After recording all sentences, tap Review. Here you can hear your recording side by side with the correct pronunciation in the language you are learning, at normal and slow speed. Use the AI Dictionary to look up any word you are unsure about. Each word button gives you a translation, grammar notes, and an example sentence.
4. Repeat to earn medals
The real power of this method is repetition. Each time you finish a story it counts as one presentation. At 10 presentations you earn Bronze, at 15 Silver, at 20 Gold. Regular learners aim for 20 or more presentations on their favourite stories. Your Archipelago on your profile page shows your total medals per language.
Tips for best results
- Practice 15 to 30 minutes daily rather than long infrequent sessions.
- Start with Beginner stories even if you have some experience. Confidence matters.
- Don't peek at the translation until you've genuinely tried to recall it.
- Listen to the slow audio when you encounter unfamiliar pronunciation.
- Use the AI Dictionary for words you see repeatedly across stories.