Learning a new language can be both rewarding and frustrating in equal measures. It requires a big investment of our time and often finances but the benefits are endless. Here are some suggestions to help you with your language learning experience
Do some revision of your native language.
This is one of the reasons native English speakers are such bad language learners – we simply don’t study or own language. Knowing grammar structures in your own language will help you contextualise structures in the language you are learning.
Remind yourself why you’re learning the language
If you are learning English it’s probably vital for your current or future career. English is essential for travelling anywhere in the world, even in countries where English is not the first language. Reminding yourself why you’re learning English will maintain your motivation.
If you are investing time and money into your English tuition for your child, it’s important to remember what a great gift you are giving your child.
Learn vocabulary in context
Memorising lists of vocabulary can be challenging not to mention dull. Learning by association is key to remembering new words. It’s better to learn from situations you experience so the new language connects to a background experience.
Read for pleasure
Reading is the single best way for improving vocabulary, it will also help you see grammar structures in context. It’s also a very rewarding experience, the first book you complete in English is an achievement you’ll remember for a long time.
Practice Practice Practice
Unfortunately language can’t be stored away in our brains to take out every few years. We will only retain language if we use it. A good way to retain learned vocabulary is to watch your favourite tv programme in English with English subtitles. Read in English, and if you can’t visit an English speaking country as often as you would like, then invite your English speaking friends to come visit you and get talking!
Go to where the language is spoken
If you are really serious about learning English and getting pleasure from what you have learned you need to go where English is spoken. Books are a good way to learn English in your home country but the people and the culture will far outclass them when you get to the country where English is spoken.
And as Ireland is famous for being one of the friendliest countries in the world, the Irish will give you the biggest welcome into their culture!
