Learning English isn’t a simple task if you’re not a native speaker. However, there are quite a few courses and other tools you can use to learn to read and write in English. It can be incredibly stressful, but these five tricks are sure to help you on the road to fluency in no time.
Find a Group Study Session
If you’re in an area with a lot of non-native speakers, it may be possible to find a study group. Self-studying is not for everyone. If you’re someone who learns best with other students, group sessions may be for you. Many states have programs that you can take for free and some offer inexpensive classes with others who want to learn English. If you need assistance finding a class near you, the Department of Career Education in your state can help you find programs that are the right fit for you.
Take Online English Writing Courses
There are dozens of websites that are available to help people learn ESL, or “English as a second language.” One of the best online English writing courses available is EngVid. EngVid offers subject-by-subject videos taught by several teachers with varying personalities. You can choose to take English writing courses from one teacher, or learn from all of them -- it’s completely up to you. If you’re an independent learner, this is one of the best ways to not only hear the language, but to get a better understanding of grammar, spelling, and pronunciation.
Create a Duolingo Profile
Duolingo is an absolutely free program you can install on your phone or your computer. You start by choosing your native language and then the program will teach you English, starting with the basics. If you already have some experience, you can take tests to move to something you don’t already know. Furthermore, this program is extremely helpful because you are asked to translate words into English as well as write and comprehend entire sentences.
Always Use Audio
Whether you’re studying alone or with a group of people, always use audio when learning to read, write, and speak another language. Not only does this teach you proper pronunciation, but you’ll also learn how to read the sentences yourself. Consider starting an Audibles subscription and purchasing the physical copy of each book. With this method, you have the ability to follow along with the audio. You even have the option to slow down the audio for better understanding.
Expand Your Vocabulary
Learning to write becomes easier when you expand your vocabulary. One way of doing this is by choosing a “word of the day;” find a word you don’t recognize, and then write out its meaning, along with several synonyms, by hand. There have been plenty of studies that found writing out notes by hand improves memory.
If you would like to find printable worksheets or a template, you can find several subjects at ESL PDF. This website has dozens of exercises that you can use to create your own, or even print off and learn words related to weather, travel, vehicles, idioms, and much more!
