How I Would Learn English If I Had To Learn It As A New Language

TL;DR

Learn the 500 or 1000 most common words in English, use language learning apps, listen to English music, read familiar books in English, watch English TV shows and YouTube videos, find a grammar book in your native language, practice speaking with a partner, and find ways to practice writing.

Transcript

So I'm sure you've noticed that I speak English. I was raised in an English speaking country, and it is my first language. But I was thinking the other day, what would I do if I had to learn English? Well, in this English lesson, I'll tell you the eight things I would do if I was starting to learn English today. So the first thing I would do if I w... Read More

Key Insights

• 💪 Learning the most common words in English provides a strong foundation for language learning.
• 😀 Language learning apps like Duolingo offer an engaging and interactive way to learn English.
• 👂 Listening to English music and watching TV shows and YouTube videos in English enhance language skills.
• 🫠 Reading familiar books in English allows learners to focus on expanding their vocabulary.
• 📏 Finding grammar resources in one's native language can facilitate understanding of English grammar rules.
• 🙊 Speaking practice with an English-speaking partner or tutor accelerates language learning.
• ✍️ Regular writing practice aids in vocabulary expansion and overall writing proficiency.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why is it important to learn the most common words in English when starting to learn the language?

Learning the most common words provides a strong foundation for further language learning as these words are frequently used in conversation and written texts. It helps learners understand and communicate basic ideas.

Q: How can language learning apps like Duolingo help in learning English?

Language learning apps provide an interactive and gamified approach to language learning. Duolingo, for example, offers a variety of exercises to practice vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structure, making the learning process more enjoyable and effective.

Q: Why is listening to English music beneficial for language learning?

Music helps with language learning by providing linguistic patterns, vocabulary, and pronunciation practice. Repetition, which is common in music, reinforces language skills and familiarity with the sounds and rhythms of the language.

Q: What is the advantage of reading familiar books in English?

When reading familiar books in English, learners already know the story, characters, and plot, allowing them to focus on learning new vocabulary and phrases. It speeds up the learning process and makes reading in English more enjoyable.

Q: Why is it recommended to watch English TV shows and YouTube videos?

Watching TV shows and YouTube videos in English exposes learners to authentic spoken language, different accents, and colloquial expressions. By regularly watching the same actors or YouTubers, learners become more familiar with their speech patterns and gradually improve their listening skills.

Q: How can finding a grammar book in your native language help with learning English grammar?

English grammar can be confusing, especially for beginners. Using a grammar book written in a learner's native language helps clarify complex grammar concepts, making it easier to grasp the fundamental rules of English grammar.

Q: What are the benefits of finding an English-speaking partner or tutor?

Having an English-speaking partner or tutor helps learners practice and improve their speaking skills. They can provide guidance, answer questions, and correct mistakes, helping learners progress more quickly in their language learning journey.

Q: How can one practice writing in English?

Writing in English can be practiced by keeping a journal, leaving comments on videos, or writing notes for conversations with an English-speaking partner or tutor. Regular writing practice helps improve vocabulary, sentence structure, and overall written communication skills.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Learning the most common words in English is a great first step when starting to learn the language.

• Utilize language learning apps like Duolingo to make learning English more engaging and rewarding.

• Listening to English music and watching TV shows and YouTube videos in English can help improve language skills.

• Reading familiar books in English allows learners to focus on learning new words instead of understanding the story.

• Finding a grammar book in your native language can make understanding English grammar easier.

• Speaking with an English-speaking partner or tutor can greatly enhance language learning.

• Practicing writing through journaling, commenting on videos, or preparing for conversations helps develop language skills.