Online ESL Classes & Hacking Your Way to Understanding
Learning English in any setting, including online ESL classes (English as a Second Language) is difficult, regardless of learning level. Beginners and advanced learners all have trouble mastering the language at some point, simply because English is one of the most challenging languages to learn on Earth. Even if you have studied English for many years and understand the rules, can read, write and speak well- you can still find yourself getting lost in a group of native speakers; who speak too fast, use too much slang or break all the grammar rules you memorized.
If this sounds like you or someone you know, the most important thing is to never give up. It may sound cliche' but having a positive attitude and implementing some of these strategies- while enrolled in an online ESL course- can bring you closer to hacking your way to understanding English much faster.
Learn English Online and Make Listening a Fun, FREE and Daily Habit
"We are what we repeatedly do; excellence, then, is not an act but a habit"
Aristotle
If your goal is to master English as a Second Language- as with anything in life- you must practice every day in order to excel. Enrolling in an online ESL program is an essential first step, but class is not held every day. Most of us have hectic lives with limited free time and spending money, so ensuring you practice English every day should be something enjoyable and affordable.
The good news? There is a plethora of completely free resources at your disposal. During these chilly winter months, it could be a fun idea to have a movie night with your family and friends. Select a movie in English, and when you think someone doesn't know a word, pause the movie and you are both challenged to see who can define the word first. At the end of the movie, whoever has the least points or loses the most challenges has to clean up. You can even listen to a podcast for English learners, or tune into a radio talk show on your way to work. In fact, some people have learned English solely from listening to the radio and asking a native English speaking friend for understanding afterwards. Whatever you choose, there are plenty of free resources out there that make being proactive and learning every day easy and accessible to everyone.
Step Outside Your Comfort Zone While Learning English as a Second Language
While learning English as a second language, there are many things you can do to supplement your education. Online ESL courses are a very important resource and make mastering the language much easier than without enrolling. At the same time, nothing compares to first-hand conversation practice with a native English speaker. If you want to improve your conversational English skills fast, a great way to accomplish that is by joining a Facebook or MeetUp group for a free English practice event. These events are held at a public space like a restaurant or library and give learners an opportunity to practice English with native speakers, even if there is no personal connection. These kinds of events certainly can be intimidating to some especially if you don't know anyone. The purpose of these events is to make those connections while improving English in a public place, and you can always bring a friend or family member if you want.
Whether you are a beginner or advanced ESL learner, continuing education and making a concerted effort to practice English is the key to mastery. There are plenty of free resources to supplement our ESL program. If you or someone you know is interested, our classes are offered in Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, Russian, Chinese, Haitian Creole or Vietnamese languages.
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