You may be wondering about this. This means that a good way to learn the English language is watch something in English. This is an excellent strategy for learning a foreign language. I think most of us are aware of this. But, how many of us actually understand just how good this method of learning English is. And, how many of us actually take the time to “employ” this method. Well, if you are not doing it, you should be.
This is an easy, cheap, fun, and effective way of improving your English.
Cheap? “You bet!” You can use the internet, specifically, Youtube for free. There are lots and lots of things to watch in English on Youtube. Have you ever heard of “TED” videos? These are videos that you watch on Youtube that are informational or instructional. Many students of English find these videos to be quite interesting. Because of this, they are really popular for learning English. Quite a few of their speakers are famous people. There are also “numerous” movies and TV shows that are available on the internet for free. You just have to explore to find things that are interesting to you.
Fun? Sure! Most of us enjoy watching TV, movies, documentaries, and, as mentioned above, videos on the internet. Just think about what “genres” you are interested in and then seek them out.
Easy? Quite! It’s “as simple as” picking up the remote and watching something in English on TV or, again, picking up the mouse and “browsing the internet”. It doesn’t get much easier than this. Just don’t be lazy.
Effective? Absolutely! Watching something in English employs the skill of listening. Not only can students of English improve their listening skills by watching programs in English, but you can also “pick up” body language. You can see what kind of body language is employed with certain expressions words and you can also pick up “facial expressions” which are used to convey meaning, as well.
Another benefit that you will gain from watching things in English is learning new English vocabulary. This “goes hand in hand with” watching things in a foreign language. You don’t even have to try too hard. This will happen naturally. But, it’s a great idea to have a pen and paper “handy” while you are watching. Once in a while just “jot” a word or two down on your paper and then look them up later to discover their meaning. You can then bring these notes to your wonderful English classes, that you should be taking, at a wonderful language school…like the Canadian Education College, and ask your teacher what they mean and how to use them.
Written by: Alan Bruhn
English Teacher at Canadian Education College, Singapore
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