Ways to Improve English

Formal ESL (English-as-a-second-language) classes are available at many colleges and universities to help non-native speakers improve their command of English. These programs provide a variety of courses such as grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, writing, and conversation at a variety of levels such as beginning, intermediate, and advanced. Some also offer “English for special purposes” classes, which focus on English as used in specific subject-matter areas such as business, science or engineering.

Students should spend their time on things that interest them. They must choose their materials well. They can buy English reading materials based on their interest. For example, if the girls like cooking, then they can buy an English-language cookbook or find recipes on the net and practise following the recipes. They will soon know if they have made a mistake.

There are millions of blogs on the web. Each blogger has his own writing style. Students may come out with their own style in writing too. They will get a lot of inspiration to write after read others’ blogs. They can keep English materials on them such as books, newspapers or magazines and CDs or cassettes all day and every day. They can take them out to read whenever they have a free time. They will never know when they might have five spare minutes.

Students will have fun playing puzzles and crosswords or take quizzes on daily newspaper. The more they play, the more they will improve. Online dictionary and thesaurus can help students to check meanings of a word when they cannot figure out what it means.

Students can have better understanding if they use reference books that correspond to their level. They will be able to relate grammar to practical usage if they check the spelling of words in dictionary. They should be brave and choose to write paper works in English if they are given choice. Their lecturers will be able to correct their mistakes and therefore, they will know what they did wrong and will not make the same mistake again.

Students could try reading text aloud and using a tape recorder to play it back yourself. It may seem strange, but it is easier for them to find out errors in speaking and pronounciation. Although some may not like to speak in English with their friends, studying and speaking in English when working in small groups in class might be very effective to improve their speaking.

Actually students can enjoy and have a lot of fun by taking an active part in role plays or drama activities. Learning English together can be very encouraging. Speaking with native English speakers can help a lot in communication. There is nothing like communicating in English and being succesful. For those who love travelling, they could take an English speaking tour or activity holiday if there is any.

Students can see and learn how the speakers present professionally by attending seminars and talks in English. They can learn a lot of new terms and words that will enrich their knowledge. If they are too bored to actively practice just relax and listen to an English pop song or watch DVDs or videos.

Students must do something to improve their English skills. They will not get anywhere if they do not do anything. They should make learning a habit or their hobbies. It is much better to study (read, write, speak or listen) 10 minutes each day than to study for 2 hours once a week. There is no end in learning English and therefore they should not be in too much of a hurry. There will be frustrations, but there will also be lots of interesting things. They should take their time to really enjoy the experience.