Monday, May 17, 2010

Learning English outside the classroom

THE English language is commonly referred to as the ‘world’s language’. In other words, it is widely spoken in many countries and is taught as a second language almost all over the world.However, for many, the English language seems to be a challenging language to learn and consequently some even lose hope in learning the language, feeling that their basic knowledge is adequate for communication purposes.
There are many possible techniques to learn the English language, but there are certain techniques that are more effective in developing a level of proficiency.
The main tip to speed up the learning of English is to throw yourself into an English-oriented environment. This helps improve the practice of English learning since there is a constant use of the language. Basically, the more exposure one has to English, the higher the tendency in developing the habit and progressing in the language.

Once they have been familiarised with the language, it will take less effort for them to identify which is right or wrong in the construction of sentences in English.
Similarly, learners will also start to recognise the difference of certain words or phrases used in different situations, which will be used in their own conversations or writing. This practice is very common in professional sports training where the athletes are primarily sent for training to familiarise them with the actual sport. Immersion happens automatically.

Another pointer in learning the English language is to constantly speak in English or to speak with English-speaking friends. This assists learners because it provides a continuous repetition of English words, where the learner is able to use new vocabulary or phrases in conversations.

Apart from conversing in English with other speakers, it is also recommended that English language learners read a variety of English reading materials such as newspapers, magazines, or novels. It is one of the most effective ways English learners can build up their vocabulary since it provides a wide range in addition to practising English through conversations.

Even though there may be words that the learners may not know, one suggestion of understanding the words is not by looking through the dictionary, but by guessing their context through understanding the sentence. Learners may understand the other words in the sentence and come to a conclusion as to what the specific word means.
While all the above-mentioned tips are relevant, it is very important that the language learner must want to learn the English language. A learner must have the interest or intention to learn the language. This will result in effective outcomes for language skills.

It is always important to have fun while learning a new language. When learners have fun learning a specific subject matter, it makes it easier for them and increases their ability to remember.

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