Students should understand that English learning is not about attending class and learning grammar. English teachers encourage students to learn the language outside school. It is not possible to master the language of English just by sitting in the classroom and reading a coursebook. It will be beneficial to do some additional work. Students can improve their understanding of the language of English in various fun ways, and each individual responds to different learning methods.
So, if you want to improve your English language, follow these handy tips. You will surely see some improvement if you inculcate these ideas into your day-to-day language learning.
7 Tips to Improve Your English Language
1. Watch television and films in English
Not only do Britain and the USA produce some of the best TV shows and films in the world, but you can learn English by watching them.
You can also listen to English radio stations and find plenty of listening sources on the internet. Another idea would be to put English subtitles on films or television programmes from your own country so that you can read along with them in English and do the translations as you go.
2. Read English books/newspapers
Reading is an excellent way of practising your English in your time. You can take one word at your pace without your teacher peering over your shoulder. If you’re studying at a beginner to intermediate level, pick a children’s book where the language will be easier than an adult book.
Newspapers are also worth reading. Not only can you improve your English, but you’ll learn about local and national current affairs, which can be handy when communicating with native speakers. Complimentary newspapers and magazines and tabloid-style newspapers that use more basic language are perhaps better for beginner-level speakers.
3. Make notes of new vocabulary
Note that whenever you learn a new word, whether in the classroom or beyond. You can practise what you’ve learnt whenever you have some free time. You could even do this on your phone, so you needn’t carry around a notebook.
It’s also worth noting the translation into your language and any unusual phonological aspects of the word. Also, understand the English Difference Between Articles to know the meaning and correct placement of words.
4. Figure out your best time to learn
Some people work the best in the morning and switch off after lunchtime, while for others, it takes a while to get going every day. If you can work out when your brain is at its sharpest, you should cram in your language learning. You should also be familiar with the difference between similar words, such as the difference between its and it’s, etc.
5. Practise English whenever you can
You mustn’t leave your English learning inside the classroom. Make an effort to go to the library, study your notes, read and write in English, and speak to English nationals and other English speakers.
When you’re in bed at night, look over your English notes from the day and try to memorise some vocabulary as you fall asleep.
6. Get a good bilingual dictionary
A bilingual dictionary is your best friend while you’re learning English. However, beware that many dictionaries out there have numerous mistakes and mistranslations. Do some research and spend extra money on the best dictionary you can find.
It’s also worth bearing in mind that the number of online translators and electronic dictionaries on smartphones can be quite poor.
7. Learn English idioms and phrasal verbs
Several aspects of the English language might not be found in an academic coursebook. Things like idioms and phrasal verbs are prevalent in everyday English conversations.
You’ll find it much easier to talk and understand conversations with native speakers if you learn these. Although this is not the language you’re likely to use in an academic essay, it’s arguably just as important to you.