English. It is one of the most useful languages to be able to speak. This is the most widely spoken language in the world, with more than 1.4 billion people able to speak English.
Some people are lucky to be born somewhere where English is their native language. Others have to take up English as a second language if they want to pursue it further. What are the best ways to go about learning English? Are there studying techniques that can help you learn the language faster?
This is your guide.
Start With Common Things
The easiest way to learn English is to learn words that you say more common in your native language. An example could be the clothes that you wear outside. These can be simple things like socks, pants, t-shirts, jackets, hats, etc. You can start by learning how to say each of those in English. Then, move onto other common things that you say in your own language.
Something good to learn early may be basic numbers. Start with 1-10 and then work your way up. Then, there are items that you use regularly around your household. You can learn how to say things such as the kitchen, television, microwave, water, orange juice, coffee, cereal, and more in English.
Starting with common things and common words that you say in your own language will help build up repetition when you try to say it in a single language. Eventually, you will say these things enough to the point it becomes second nature for you.
Use Pop Culture
Another good way to learn English is to use pop culture references. With all of the access we have to media these days, it can be easier than ever to learn a language. Do you use a streaming service to watch TV shows and movies? If you do, then this can be a great source to learn another language.
Platforms such as Netflix have shows in several different languages. Here, you can find a show that is spoken in English. If you are having trouble keeping up with the dialogue, you can put the closed caption in your native language. The same can apply in reverse on streaming platforms. You could have a show that you like that is spoken in your native language. To try to take in more English words, you can put that language on your closed caption.
Online Materials
These days, it is easier than ever to access materials to learn a second language. There are several online platforms out there that cater just to this industry. Take reportedelectura.org, for example. They have materials on that website, such as reading materials, text, riddles, letters, conversations, games, and more.
The point is that you can use that platform to help build your own skills. They will have all of the words and all of the correct grammar that you need to learn English as a second language. Best of all, you can use the platform to help keep better track of your progress.
Online Translators
Along with learning materials, there are also online translators out there. This can be good if you are still trying to memorize some words but you are not sure if you have them right.
On top of this, it can help you with the pronunciation of those words. Usually, these sources have somewhere that it is written the way it is pronounced. Also, there is an audio button that can usually tell you what the word sounds like. Take advantage of these materials to review your work.
Listen to Audio Books
Reading tends to be one of the best ways to take in new information. However, something else that you can do is listen to an audio book in English. Ideally, this can be for a book that you have already read in your native language. Then, the source material should be more familiar and you should have a better idea of what is supposed to be said.
Listening to an audio book can help you listen to specific words more carefully. Not only are you trying to follow the plot but you are also trying to fully understand the narrator. Doing it in a more descriptive style with source material that you are familiar with could really benefit you.
Travel to English Speaking Areas
Finally, if you have the luxury of doing this, it is highly recommended that you go to areas that have more English speakers. Sometimes, this may not be too hard if you relocate to another country or your area has a strong English expat population.
However, you may want to travel the world and realize that English is the most commonly spoken language. This will give you a great chance to practice your English communication skills.
Should you travel just to speak English if you are not at least intermediate? No, not really. However, if you are already traveling to one of these areas, there is arguably no better way to get exposed to the language than real world experience.
Learn English as a Second Language
These are the best ways to go about learning English as a second language. Because it is such a popular language globally, it may be easier to learn English as you travel. If you want more practice before taking that kind of step, you can use audio books, pop culture, online materials, common household items, and more. Do you want more relevant information? Check out our Education section.
