The best way, it seems to learn another language, which in my case is English, is by the constant exposure of that language. Every day there must be a portion of time set aside in order to better learn a language, and a person who want to learn should expose themselves to many cases where English is to be learned. This essay explains through research the motivations for learning English as a foreign language, common learning styles, and different approaches that a learner can employ to learn and learning styles out there.
People learn languages in different ways. Some are visual learners, others are auditory learners, and some are tactile learners (touch). These categories can be divided further into impulsive learners and reflective learners. Impulsive learners take risks, and in a language context will be more willing to speak their language with native speakers of the language (Brown, 1994).
The reasons or learning a second language, like English are the same for all languages. In addition to the regular advantages of learning a second language, English carries with it the added benefit of being the most widely spoken language in the US, and also the language of commerce and law in the world (University of Louisville, 2014). The University of Louisville Department of Language lays out for students the different advantages of learning a second language.
The first is that offers a competitive edge. They list in their site that, “Studying a second language can improve skills and grade in math and English (especially if that language is English) and can improve exam scores” (UoL, 2014).
Another advantage listed is that we live today in a global economy where many offices involve working with employees from another country. Even if English is not needed for the job one is applying for, employers see it as a valuable skill that they might be able to use in the future. Due to this, they will be more likely to hire an applicant who speaks English than one who does not.
It is also that, through another language, a person can begin to understand other cultures. This has world advantages, such as becoming a world citizen.
Learning a new language is one of the most difficult things that a person will ever do. It is not like learning to ride a bike, which can be done in an afternoon. No, learning English, if it is not taught to you when you are a baby, takes many years of hard work and practice. It also involves a daily effort. The website esl.fis.edu, has a second for “learners of English as a second language” in which they have resources to help an English learner as they try to master the new language.
They recommend that a student do not just one thing, like study vocabulary. The recommend that English students do a variety of things in order to reinforce their language learning. These include going through grammar and vocabulary. Learning jokes and playing games, doing reading and writing in English, watching English TV and movies, and listening to music in English.
Learning English can also be combined with other subjects. Since math and history can be taught in English, other subjects can be taught in English. This will teach both the language and the other subject, so it is, as they say in English, killing two birds with one stone.
English is an important language in this global world and economy. Learning is not easy, but through practice, and much study, it is possible to become completely fluent. Conversations will help make a rough accent smooth, and reading in English and watching TV and movies help to teach the language too.
References:
Brown, H. (n.d.). Language learning styles.Language learning styles. Retrieved March 9, 2014, from http://esl.fis.edu/parents/advice/styles.htm
For learners of English as a second language. (n.d.). Information for learners of English as a second language. Retrieved March 7, 2014, from http://esl.fis.edu/learners/index.htm
Why Study a Second Language. (n.d.). — University of Louisville. Retrieved March 7, 2014, from http://louisville.edu/modernlanguages/index.html/general-information/why-study-a-second-language.html
