There is an old expression that says “practice makes perfect.” If you want to perfect a skill of any kind it requires lots of practice and the best way to practice a new language, especially outside of your ESL classes, is to use it as often as possible. Here are 10 of the easiest ways to practice your English reading, speaking and comprehension skills every day.
1. Although it may not blend in with your household decor, a really simple technique for increasing word recognition is to put labels around the rooms of your house. Using sticky notes is an easy way to do this. For example your kitchen can be adorned with multi colored labels that read “cupboard”, “drawer”, “counter”, “table”, “spice rack” etc. Reading the labels on objects you use constantly will reinforce their meaning and get you in the habit of using the correct term for things.
2. Reading daily newspapers, even small local editions or newsletters is another great way to practice the language as it is spoken by the average person. It will also help you understand some of the local terms and expressions from the area you’re in as well.
3. Magazines, like newspapers offer inexpensive and interesting ways to practice reading and comprehension skills while also learning about interesting subject matter. If you have a hobby or interest, you will be even more motivated to read about it and magazines are available on just about every subject imaginable.
4. Everybody has to eat, and if you have the facilities for cooking, reading and following recipes is a super way to study the language. And you get the bonus of some good eating as well!
5. Listen to the radio, especially talk shows or news programs. Listening to others speak the language, is an excellent way to improve pronunciation.
6. Make use of all aspects of the internet. Obviously you will spend a great deal of time reading and writing online during the course of your ESL program, but aside from that, there are also tons of podcasts, videos and audio presentations online that can be both educational and entertaining.
7. Make lists. This is an easy and helpful way to practise spelling and writing. When you have groceries to buy, or errands to run, try writing out a list each time.
8. Do puzzles such as crosswords, word searches, and word match ups, in your spare time. It will increase your vocabulary as well as help to improve sight recognition of words.
9. Play board games. There are tons of board games that are a lot of fun to play with friends that require reading, writing and listening skills.
10. Try to find some movies in your native language with English subtitles.
These few little tricks will have you reading, speaking and writing English like an expert in no time!
If you liked this article, tell all your friends about it. They’ll thank you for it. If you have a blog or website, you can link to it or even post it to your own site (don’t forget to mention www.englishlci.com as the original source).
Author Resource:
Susan Thomason has written numerous articles for LCI English Center, an ESL school in Denver, Colorado. LCI offers the best English training through experienced teachers and high quality programs. Check out more ESL articles at http://www.englishlci.com/blog
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