There are numerous great reasons to learn a new language, at any age! Whether you’re learning to make an advance in your career, or to complete your resume, or just for fun, there are so many ways you can learn a language. A number of apps, websites and textbooks that offer guidance through that process is countless.
However, the best way to learn English is to immerse yourself completely into the experience, and include language learning into your daily routine. Not only do you learn the theory, but you get to practice at the same time, and speed up the process of learning altogether.
But how do you include language learning into your daily life when you’re swamped with…life? Here are a few tips to consider if you’re willing to add a new language to your skill set.
1. Speak Up
While reading is also a great way to learn a new language, it doesn’t prepare you for the real world, where you will have to speak English in question. Even when you’re reading, copying text or putting sticky notes around your house, use your voice! Say the words that you’re reading and writing out loud. You’ll be surprised how much it will be easier to make full sentences and interact with people, once you’ve already spoken them, even if it was only in the comfort of your own home.
2. Learn from the Surroundings
This is one of the best learning methods for acquiring new words. Next time you’re in the kitchen or the living room, or anywhere for that matter, try to name the objects that you see, but in English that you’re learning. You can even use sticky notes to write out specific words that give you trouble and learn them through repeating. It doesn’t take much time, but it keeps you in the learning loop.
3. Netflix for Learning
There are so many millennials nowadays that claim they have learned new language by watching their favorite TV shows. And we have to admit, there’s something to it. The next time you watch a movie or a TV show in English, truly focus on listening to the language. It will give you knowledge about English and American culture, than any textbook or app that’s available online.
Start off by watching a TV show with subtitles and carefully follow the subtitles with the words they are speaking. Eventually, when you’re ready to turn off the subtitles and just listen to English. You’ll not only learn new words, you’ll also learn proper pronunciation.
4. Carry a Notebook
You’ve probably already downloaded several language learning apps on your smartphone, but the key to English learning doesn’t come solely through apps. If you really want to immerse yourself in the world of the English you’re learning have a notebook or a small dictionary on you at all times. It helps you take notes, write out new words, and truly learn as you go. Use the notebook to revise your notes and lessons while you’re on the bus or in the waiting room.
5. Learn from the Best
If you aren’t taking a English course at school, you’re definitely lacking the advice and tips professionals have to share. Go online and learn what experts have to say on acquiring a new language. Learn from other people’s mistakes and find some helpful tips on how to improve your language learning.
Daniel Stevens, a professional writer for BestEssays states ‘’English learning can be complex, and at least one aspect of this process is bound to give you trouble. But, with a little help from those who have already mastered a language and know all the ins and outs, can help you push through the barrier and learn a English more quickly.’’
6. Optimize Your Phone
We all know that having a phone set in another language is impossible. But, if you really want to experience what it’s like to use a English in everyday life, switch your phone language settings to English. It might take some time getting used to, but it will definitely give you knowledge that isn’t exactly in the textbooks and apps. Soon, you’ll feel like one with the culture and English you’re learning.
7. Start a Conversation with a Native Speaker
Speaking is definitely the best way to learn English. Lots of people move to foreign countries in search for jobs, and end up learning a language simply by talking to people in their surroundings.
If you don’t have anyone who speaks the language in your proximity, you can always find people online who are willing to speak in English. There are websites that offer such services for a very small fee.
We suggest you download an app or buy a textbook today, but don’t forget to implement your learning into your everyday life, because it will make a huge difference in the learning process. It might seem irrelevant in the beginning, but it will speed learning up and prepare you for what’s coming on higher levels of learning.
Brenda Savoie is a content marketer, private English tutor, and desperate dreamer. Writing her first romance novel. Seeking contentment through mindfulness. Check her last article “How to Write an Argumentative Essay: A Complete Guide.” Find her on Twitter and Facebook.