Native English speakers can sometimes talk really quickly and be difficult to understand. Work to comprehend what they’re saying by paying close attention. Don’t be rude and eavesdrop on someone just because they’re speaking English, but listening to what they’re saying can help you build your English speaking ability.
Look for news programs such as BBC Worlds, which can be found online as well. Purchase or rent English-speaking movies so you can watch them at home. Select English subtitles so you can see the English translation while you’re watching TV or a movie in your native language.
Download a radio application to your computer, smartphone, or tablet so you can listen to English radio stations even if you don’t have any playing in your area.
You’ll also learn something about the topic the podcast discusses. On a smartphone or tablet, use a podcast application to download episodes. Download podcasts designed to help you learn English such as Voice of America: Learning English or LearnEnglish Podcasts from the British Council.
Keep a journal that you can use to practice writing in English. Journaling allows you to write without being judged. Practice writing essays. It teaches you to put your ideas in the form of proper text. Create a social media post or a blog entry in English so you can practice.
Learn the phonetic notation used in your dictionary so you see how a word is pronounced as well. Use a thesaurus whenever you’re writing in English and want to use different wording.
Read books prepared for your level of English. For example, if you’re new to reading English, try reading books written for middle readers or young adults so the language is a little simpler and you can practice. Remember, it is not about how fast you read. Take your time to make sure you understand the text. Read daily and read out loud books, magazines, articles, comic books, and news on various topics. It will help you to pronounce the words correctly.
Search for a pen pal program online so you can sign up. Be careful when becoming friends with someone online that you’ve never met. Never give away any personal information.
An English class will also help you learn the rules of grammar and formal written English. You can also make friends at your English class so you can practice speaking with them.
Look online for English music that you can listen to. Download English music to your smartphone, computer, or mp3 player so you can listen to it.
Look online to find the pronunciation of a word that you don’t know.
Use any opportunity you can to speak English. For example, if you’re at an English-speaking restaurant, try ordering your food in English.
Don’t be shy and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. If you are not sure about your English, don’t hesitate to ask someone if your English is wrong.
