1. Clearly define the goal
If your goal is to speak English quickly, cut out difficult grammar topics and unnecessary
vocabulary. Here is what is important to learn at the very beginning:
- the verb to be,
- auxiliary verbs to do, to have, will and modals would, should, can,
- three forms of time: Present Simple, Past Simple, Future Simple. And also how to make
negative and interrogative sentences.
2. Use free language apps
With their help, you can practice the language anywhere and anytime. Here are some great
websites and apps:
Wordle game - to memorize a new English word every day.
Skyeng app for iOS or Android - to learn and repeat English words.
Semantris game - to quickly type and select the necessary associations in English.
Tandem - to communicate with native speakers.
Brain exercises in English - to train memory, logic and attention.
3. Study together with your child(ren)
If your child learns or speaks English, learn words together, speak in English, watch movies.
They are definitely happy to talk to you about their hobbies, movies, travel, etc.
4. Surround yourself with English
Finishing a lesson and forgetting about English for the next week is not the best approach. It is
important to surround yourself with language:
- Watch your favorite shows and movies in English with the whole family - first, you can
do it with subtitles. Also try to repeat the phrases after the characters out loud.
- Read books for children - you even can roleplay.
- Try to practice basic everyday dialogues using new words.
- Translate all your gadgets into English - at first it will be difficult, then you will get used
to it.
- Name every object you see in English: on a walk, at a concert, at home.
- Follow bloggers or Youtubers who are native speakers.
6. Try to form a habit
Consistency is the queen of progress. Practicing every day for 15–20 minutes is even more
effective than 1.5 hours once a week. Here is how to tune in to English and make learning a
habit:
- Apply the five second rule. If you seem to want to practice, but are procrastinating or
unsure, count from 5 to 1. When you get to one, start taking action.
- Set micro goals. A massive challenge like “learning to speak like a native speaker” is
motivating in the long run. But the goal of “understanding everything they say in this
3-minute video” no longer looks so daunting. And when you achieve this goal, it is easier
to believe in yourself.
- Repeat. “Learned once and then forgotten” is not what you really want. You will better
memorize the information if you return to it. The first time - immediately after class, then
- a few hours later and the next day. And to consolidate knowledge, return to what you
have learned after 2 weeks.
- Take breaks. It is ok to realize being tired after even 5 minutes of work. Perhaps it is time
to take a break, and tomorrow you will return to English with renewed vigor.
