English as a Second Language - How to Go from Beginner to Advanced in No Time

More and more people are starting to see the potential of speaking the English language. Being fluent in English can open a lot of doors in life and help you find a better career or even move someplace new. Even though learning a new language is not easy, there are ways to boost your English language skills in a relatively short period of time – read on to learn what they are.

Are you ready to take your English skills to new heights? Imagine being able to express yourself effortlessly, connect with people from different cultures, and unlock incredible opportunities both personally and professionally. If this sounds like a dream come true, then it's time for you to consider studying English in Toronto - a city known for its exceptional education system and welcoming atmosphere. But what is it about this vibrant city that makes it the ideal destination for language learners? Apart from its diverse population and multicultural atmosphere, Toronto offers exceptional language schools and an immersive environment that accelerates English proficiency. The city's dynamic social scene allows students to practice their language skills in real-life situations, whether through volunteering, joining clubs or attending events. By surrounding yourself with native speakers and embracing the local culture, you can go from a beginner to advanced level in no time.

Imitate the pronunciation of native speakers

Learning how to pronounce words properly from the start is crucial for setting a firm foundation for other language skills. Consider watching videos in English that will help you get acquainted with the correct pronunciation, as well as lip and mouth movements necessary for producing different sounds. Make sure that the videos you’re watching are authentic, meaning there should be real native English speakers pronouncing the words – that way you’ll know that everything you learn is exactly how it’s pronounced in certain English dialects. Listen to the audio and then pause – try to imitate the sound you hear, paying attention to reproducing exactly the same sound. By actively building your English skills through pronunciation and practicing daily, you’ll start to sound more natural as time goes by.

Learn from the best

In order to successfully learn a foreign language, it’s best to learn from the people who’ve already mastered it. Now, we’re not saying you should pack your bags, buy a ticket, and fly to an English speaking country to get a solid grasp of English. Instead, try to do what TEFL students from Hong Kong do. Many of them choose to enroll in the Monkey Tree TEFL course to further develop their English language skill. First, you’re given a test that will show how familiar you are with different aspects of the English language. Depending on your score, you will be included in a TEFL group that will help you further develop your English skills. By joining one of the TEFL programs this learning center offers, you’re sure to boost your knowledge and level up in no time.

Listen to the flow of English

Every language has its specific flow and the way you pronounce the words in your native language can largely differ from the pronunciation of sentences in English. You can pronounce all the words correctly and still not sound like a native speaker. In order to sound like one, one must pay attention to the intonation, rhythm, and stress. If you listen to a native English speaker talk, you’ll realize that they use contractions most of the time. So, instead of saying I am, they say I’m, and instead of you would, they say you’d. They also tend to accentuate some words if they’re more important, so have that in mind next time you’re speaking in English – it will help you sound more natural, thus boosting your English speaking skills.

Practice common phrases

Nothing will make you sound more proficient in English than using common phrases. But, in order to use them correctly, you must know when and how to apply what you know. Practice makes perfect, and repetition is the key to mastery. That is why it is so important to practice using new phrases that you’ve learned whenever the opportunity arises. Search for the list of common phrases in English and get acquainted with the context in which you can use them. If your knowledge of English is already at a higher level, consider learning something more complex, such as idioms and slang words  – use them within the appropriate context and you’ll be one step closer to sounding like a native speaker.

Use language apps and video games to boost your English skills

Learning a language should be fun, and there are many apps and games that can assist you in acquiring a foreign language. Since the majority of people nowadays use their phones extensively during the day, why not put our smartphones to good use and install language app games? You can play them while commuting to your work or school, and even during breaks to enhance your English skills. Video games are also a great way to learn English and have fun at the same time – they are an effective tool for developing linguistic and cognitive abilities as they require the integration of different linguistic skills. Another way in which video games help you learn English is that they remove the fear of making mistakes, thus allowing you to practice the language in a relaxed, carefree environment. 

Learning a new language is a complex process, but by using the five effective tips mentioned above, you’re sure to master the art of English and feel comfortable using it.

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