1. Feel free to make mistakes
English is a complex language with many complex rules. Its
origins are found in a broad range of other European cultures, as well as many
modern influences. The more technical approaches that can be extremely
effective for learning a language like Spanish will not prove as effective for
English. ‘Trial and error’ is an essential part of language learning. The words
‘laughter’ and ‘daughter’ may look similar, but their meanings and
pronunciations are far removed.
2. Use phonetic spelling to improve your pronunciation
English is not a phonetic language. This means, as in the
example above, spelling can be very misleading when trying to learn new
vocabulary. Using the phonetic spelling of a word (alongside the correct
spelling) creates a solid relationship between the sound of the word and how to
write it. It will also help to improve your accent.
3. Establish a good rapport with your teacher
If you are largely self-taught, first of all,
congratulations. However, you are likely to struggle with the common mistake of
taking too academic an approach to learning English. You will likely have a
solid understanding of the grammatical rules, but struggle with conversation, expressing
your thoughts clearly, colloquialisms and pronunciation.
Words like ‘cache’ or ‘chaos’ might prove to be stumbling blocks.
Having a good, open and slightly informal relationship with
your teacher will allow you to speak freely and comfortably and you are more
likely to engage in longer conversation about the topics that interest you
both. You will feel comfortable enough to experiment and take risks, and your
teacher will feel comfortable enough to correct you without hurting your
feelings.
4. Practice, practice, practice!
The importance of learning grammar should not be downplayed;
however, conversation is the main reason for studying a language. There is no
need to wait until you reach a certain level to start to practice speaking,
start now! A good teacher should encourage you to speak as much as possible.
Make mistakes, learn from the corrections and talk about the things that interest
you.
You can develop your conversation skills even if you have no
one to talk to. Create scenarios in your head such as shopping in a market or
talking to your boss at work and imagine what the other person would say. When
you don’t know how to express something, then make a note of it and ask your
teacher later. For this to be most effective, you must speak out loud! If you
are shy, then do it when you are alone. This is an effective way to build
essential vocabulary, words that you will remember because you are likely to
use them often.
5. Use a native speaking teacher
English is the most widely spoken language in the world and
many people who have learned English can speak it proficiently, perhaps well
enough to teach it. However, this does not account for the more subtle nuances
that a native speaking teacher will expose you to effortlessly. In England, people often use idioms when speaking casually and formally that a non-native speaker may not have been exposed to. Native teachers also have model accents.
At Speakeasy, you can benefit from all of these points
without having to travel abroad or even to a local language school. Learn from
the comfort of your own home with a native speaking teacher who makes you feel
relaxed and confident. Take
lessons from home, from your office at lunch time or even while travelling
abroad. As long as you have a Skype account and internet access, you can attend
classes and study in an environment most convenient for you.
Visit our website for more information on our one-to-one courses www.speakeasy121.com
visit our video tutorial course on Udemy to learn more about the most commonly used idioms in English-speaking countries, as well as tips for business English.
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