Whether you’re intellectually curious or trying to master English as a second language (ESL) there are easy methods to improve English. You may desire to improve your reading, writing or speaking vocabulary. You might want to improve effective use of words from a business or social standpoint. It’s possible you simply want to keep up with friends who know more words than you do.
Whatever your purpose to enrich and improve your language skills, we’ll pave the way and the rest is up to you!
The Dictionary
The rage of today is the internet, but to aid in building a solid, strong vocabulary, we urge you to invest in a hardback dictionary you can hold in your hands, not the kind you store in your computer. You might want to get a pocket dictionary also.
If you’re working on ESL, look for a combination dictionary, with dual sections – one section in English and the other in your native language.
Schedule time each day to search for and learn new words. Experts suggest listing five unfamiliar words daily. This does not have to be a dreary chore. Make it fun by flipping though the dictionary and pausing at random.
Remember what your teacher told you as a child – use a new word in three sentences and it is yours forever! As part of your practice, keep one day of the week for review. Go over all the words you’ve accumulated that week. Improving English is a process and practice is key.
Grammar
We recommend the purchase of a good grammar book also. Look at used book stores or online if money is the object. The grammar “bible” is The Elements of Style by William Strunk, Jr. & E.B. White. Consider buying your preferred grammar book in hardback, as you are investing in your future.
Elementary rules of English usage, elementary principles of composition and misused words are a few topics covered in the Strunk & White grammar guide.
Improving Vocabulary
It is conservatively estimated that of over one million words that make-up the English language, the most cultured person knows about 100,000. The average English speaker commands about 30,000 words. Therefore, it’s safe to presume that most people would benefit personally and professionally by improving their vocabulary.
Reading is a good way to enhance word understanding and build a wider personal vocabulary. Rather than stopping and starting, make a note of unfamiliar words. Also, get in the habit of carrying a pen and paper everywhere you go to jot down new words that appeal.
Internet-based English Courses
Improving English via the internet offers a pleasing flexibility. If you work outside the home or have other responsibilities, you can adjust course times to fit your personal schedule.You will save money on high-priced gasoline by not having to drive back and forth to class.
The majority of internet-based English courses are free or moderately priced. Course materials such as vocabulary sheets, quizzes, word games, puzzles, exercises, grammar books and dictionaries are generally available at no-charge.
Before settling on an e-course make a list your goals. Also, determine whether you want to enroll in an elementary, intermediate or advanced class to improve your English skills.
The better courses offer lessons in vocabulary words, parts of speech, essay writing, spelling and pronunciation and are conducted by a professional instructor. You will be assigned homework and expected to take tests. Internet-based English is similar to a brick-and-mortar school, except you are learning in the comfort of your own home.
You know how you learn best. Check-out options such as audio or visual methods of learning. Do diligent research on the internet, until you find the online English class that is suitable to help improve your current level of word-power.
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