How to Learn English
This month we have 2 questions from our readers at “English Corner” The first is from Andri who would like to know how a person can become successful in learning English.
I have been asked this question many times over the past 12 years of teaching English in Indonesia. Many students and people find learning English to be very difficult and a lot of times, boring. In my opinion, the “teacher” is one of the most important parts of successfully learning English and for that matter any other subject.
Learning English needs to be interesting, challenging and fun and people need to be really motivated to learn it effectively. I have often asked my students over the years why they are learning English (from children to adults). Children usually say that it’s their parents who want them to learn English but they also often say that they like English too. High school students say that they want to study abroad, watch movies/read books, use the internet and they seem to know that with a good English ability their future will be a lot better. In regards to adults, they want to learn English to be able to communicate with people from other countries (English is the international language of business and communication), get a better job and travel.
After you are focused and motivated on why you want to learn English, the next step is to find a teacher who can create interesting, challenging and fun lessons so that the learning process is easier and enjoyable. Teaching to me is a talent and teachers who are creative in their lessons and care about the outcome of what they are teaching are important for a person to be successful in learning English. The question is, how do you find a good teacher? I would ask your friends and family if they know of any teachers, if this doesn’t work then you can go to the language schools in your area and ask to talk to their teachers and/or try a course. There are good teachers around and once you find one you should tell your friends and family so they can also get the benefit of learning English from this person!
The second question is from Anita who would like to know how long it usually takes to learn English.
Learning English take a lot of time and study. Most schools have levels from Beginner to Advanced and higher. I think that if you have a “true” Intermediate level in English you should be able to pass a TOEFL/IELTS test, study abroad and find a job that requires English. The unfortunate thing is that many language schools pass students to the next level even though they are not qualified to move on. This is what I mean by saying a “true” intermediate ability.
To master each level (beginner, elementary, pre-intermediate and intermediate) usually takes about 4 months of studying twice a week for 3 hours with a lot of practice outside the classroom. If you study more frequently per week then you can probably shorten the time.
Many people think that by taking one English “course” they will learn English, this is impossible! I have even heard of some schools which guarantee that a student joining their courses will be able to speak English in a short period of time like 2 months or less. A person would have to study 7 days a week, 10 hours a day for 2 months and even then it would be very difficult.
Learning English takes time, patience and a lot of practice to achieve the best results. It’s really important to always “try” to speak, answer questions and ask your teacher when you don’t understand something. This is what is called “active learning” and will give you the best results for learning English and any other language or subject.
See you next month at English Corner!