As stated previously, earning a new language can be both an exciting and challenging journey. English, in particular, being the world's lingua franca, is widely studied by millions of people around the globe. A personal language program can greatly enhance this learning journey, but the question is, how do you decide what to study in your own program? Here are some practical tips that can help you tailor your personal English language program to your specific needs and goals.
The first step to determine what to study is identifying your language learning goals. Ask yourself, why do you want to learn English? This question could be the most important question you ask yourself in your English learning journey. Why? (no pun intended) Because your personal answer will provide you with the direction you will need to take in your journey and the proper motivation to go down that path especially during those moments were you may not be so motivated.
Usually, the mind will gravitate to the general broad goals such as the most famous “to speak English”. That is the overall goal. However, it is imperative that you are try to be as specific as possible. Think about the areas of your life where you will need to use English or areas that you really would like to know English well. For example, maybe you are going to an English-speaking country. You could, then, think of situations where knowing and speaking English would be important such as finding public transportation, asking for directions, renting a vehicle, ordering at a restaurant, etc. Such situations could then be considered your individual goals: how to find public transportation, how to ask for directions, how to rent a vehicle, etc. Breaking down a broad goal and being more specific will help you to focus your attention and practice more. As you achieve and master each small goal, you will come to achieve your overall goal of speaking and using English. Taking the time to think and identify your goals in English will make your learning more efficient and progressive!!!
Understanding your current level of English proficiency is a key to planning your study program. There are many ways to assess your level. Online English proficiency tests, such as those provided by the British Council or Cambridge English, can give you a rough idea of where you stand. Also, access your current level along with your current ability to communicate such as with speaking and listening. Many people find that they are rated at a particular level but also find that their actual ability to use the language doesn’t reflect it. Doing this can help you to be honest with yourself in this regard without facing disappointment.
Once you have an idea regarding your level, you can use that information to guide your decisions on what to study next. For example, beginners may need to focus on basic vocabulary and grammar, whereas advanced learners might benefit more from studying complex sentence structures or improving their listening comprehension. Make sure the decisions you make are in line with your level but challenges you enough to push you out of your linguistic comfort zone.
Finding the right study materials is necessary to your success. As said before, look for resources that match your current English proficiency level. If you're a beginner, you may benefit from picture dictionaries, simple texts, and beginner-level textbooks. As you progress, you can gradually move to more complex materials such as novels, films, podcasts, or academic articles. Most importantly, make sure it’s material that will help and interest you. Material that is not stimulating will bore the brain and make language learning more difficult. Material that is stimulating will engage the brain more and help it to take in the English content that is being used.
Consistency is key in language learning. Having contact with your target language daily is a must! Therefore, develop a study routine that fits into your schedule. Whether you can afford an hour a day or only 15 minutes, make sure you dedicate regular time to your English studies. It's better to study a little every day than to cram a lot of information into one long study session.
Practicing actively is one of the best ways to improve your English skills. This means not only reading and listening to English but also writing and speaking it as much as possible. Join English speaking clubs, write emails or journal entries in English, or try to think in English as part of your day-to-day activities. When listening to English content, try to listen for specific things such as general ideas, pronunciation, or vocabulary. The more you use English in real-life contexts, the more naturally it will come to you.
Lastly, it's important to keep track of your progress. You might consider keeping a language journal to note down new vocabulary, interesting phrases, or common mistakes you make. Regularly reviewing this journal can be a great way to reinforce your learning and see your progress over time. As you do so, make sure to celebrate your victories not matter how small and consider your mistakes as areas where improvement can be made. Be honest but fair with yourself.
In conclusion, determining what to study in your personal English language program largely depends on your individual goals and current proficiency level. By setting clear, specific goals, assessing your level, choosing interesting study materials, developing a regular study routine, practicing actively, and tracking your progress, you can create an effective and enjoyable learning journey. Remember, the path to English proficiency is not always a straight line, but with consistency, patience, and the right approach, you can make significant strides. Enjoy the linguistic journey!
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