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As an English learner, you’re probably familiar with the challenges of learning English. Even people with English as their first language can find it confusing. There seems to be countless exceptions to what seems like a never-ending list of rules. But don’t worry – you can overcome them with effort and perseverance!
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most common challenges faced by English learners, as well as some tips for overcoming them.
How to overcome the challenges of learning English #1: Grasping the grammar rules
It’s likely we’ve all been in a situation where someone has said something that could have been clearer, or we’ve read something and needed clarification on the grammar. This is because English grammar is notoriously complex and difficult to master. Even native English speakers make mistakes from time to time.
It’s important to remember that grammar is extremely important. It might seem like a small thing, but incorrect grammar use can change the meaning of what you’re trying to say. Therefore, it’s important to be aware of the different rules and to practice as much as possible.
Here’s what you could do:
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One of the best ways to improve your grammar is to read as much as you can. This will help you familiarise yourself with different sentence structures and the correct way to use other words. It’s also a good idea to listen to native English speakers as much as possible. This will help you to get a feel for the rhythm of the language and how words are pronounced.
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It’s also important to practice using English grammar yourself. The more you use it, the more natural it will become. One way to practice is to write in a journal or blog.
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Besides, It’s also a good idea to get corrections from someone who is a native speaker or has a good knowledge of grammar. This way, you can be sure that you’re using the correct forms of words and phrases.
English grammar can be tricky to master, but it’s worth the effort. Read here to improve your grammar step-by-step. By learning the different rules and practising as much as possible, you’ll soon be speaking like a native!
How to overcome the challenges of learning English #2: Knowing the slang and colloquialism
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While learning English can be challenging, students can wrap their heads around the grammar rules and vocabulary. One thing that often trips up students of English is the vast amount of slang words used in everyday conversation. While sentences can be predominantly filled with slang words, maintaining a conversation can be difficult.
This is why it’s important for students to familiarise themselves with common slang words and phrases. Not only will it make conversation easier, but it will also help you understand native speakers better.
Here are some common English slang words and phrases to get you started:
1. “No worries”
This phrase is used to reassure someone that they don’t need to worry about something. It can be used in response to a thank you or an apology.
For example:
: Thank you for your help!
: No worries.
2. “Cheers”
This is a versatile word that can be used in many different ways. It can be used as a toast before taking a drink, as a goodbye, or simply to express gratitude.
For example:
“Cheers to a great night out!”
“Cheers for your help.”
3. “Catch you later”
This phrase is similar to “take care” because it’s commonly used as a goodbye. It’s a way of telling someone that you’ll see them later.
For example:
“I’ll see you in class tomorrow, catch you later.”
“I’m going to bed now, catch you later.”
Learning common English slang words and phrases will help make conversation easier and more enjoyable. So, don’t be afraid to use some of these words and phrases next time you speak.
How to overcome the challenges of learning English #3: Perfect your pronunciation
If you’re learning English, you might be surprised that the way words are spelt doesn’t always match how they’re pronounced. This is because English isn’t a phonetic language. That means there’s no one-to-one correspondence between how a word is written and pronounced.
This can be confusing for English learners because it means that words spelt in the same way can be pronounced differently. For example, the word ‘read’ can be pronounced /riːd/ or /red/ (like the colour).
Some common English spelling rules can help you understand how words are pronounced, even if they’re spelt in a way that doesn’t match how they sound. Read here to learn how to read with phonics.
Here are some of the most important English spelling rules that you can take note:
1. Words that end in -ed are usually pronounced
/t/ or /d/.
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The word “wanted” is pronounced /ˈwɒntɪd/, with a /t/ sound at the end.
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The word “ended” is pronounced /ˈendɪd/, with a /d/ sound at the end.
2. Words that end in -ing are usually
pronounced /ɪŋ/.
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The word “working” is pronounced /ˈwɜːkɪŋ/, with an /ɪŋ/ sound at the end.
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The word “playing” is pronounced /ˈpleɪɪŋ/, with an /ɪŋ/ sound at the end.
3. Words that end in -er are usually pronounced
/ə/.
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The word “worker” is pronounced /ˈwɜːkə/, with an /ə/ sound at the end.
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The word “player” is pronounced /ˈpleɪə/, with an /ə/ sound at the end.
4. Words that end in -est are usually
pronounced /ɪst/.
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The word “biggest” is pronounced /ˈbɪgɪst/, with an /ɪst/ sound at the end.
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The word “smallest” is pronounced /ˈsmɔːlɪst/, with an /ɪst/ sound at the end.
5. Words that end in -y are usually pronounced
/i/.
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The word “happy” is pronounced /ˈhæpi/, with a /i/ sound at the end.
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The word “lucky” is pronounced /ˈlʌki/, with a /i/ sound at the end.
6. Words that end in -le are usually pronounced
/l/.
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The word “table” is pronounced /ˈteɪbəl/, with a /l/ sound at the end.
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The word “bottle” is pronounced /ˈbɒtəl/, with a /l/ sound at the end.
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How to overcome the challenges of learning English #4: Feeling embarrassed when learning English
It can be overwhelming when you’re starting to learn a new language. There are so many new words to learn, and the grammar can be confusing. Feeling a little embarrassed when you’re starting is normal.
Remember that everyone was a beginner once, and everyone makes mistakes when they’re learning something new. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become. Soon enough, you’ll be able to converse with other English speakers without feeling self-conscious.
Here are some tips for overcoming the challenges of learning a new language:
1. Practice in private
If you are worried about making mistakes in front of others, practice privately. You can do this by listening to audio recordings or watching videos in the language you are learning. This way, you can get a feel for the pronunciation and grammar without feeling embarrassed.
2. Be patient with yourself
Learning a new language takes time, and you will make mistakes. It is important to be patient with yourself and to keep practising. Eventually, you will be able to express yourself properly and confidently in the new language.
3. Have fun
Finally, remember to have fun when you are learning a new language. Don’t take yourself too seriously, and enjoy the process. The more fun you have, the less embarrassed you will feel.
Learning a new language can be daunting, but it is also an exciting process. So, don’t let the embarrassment stop you from learning. With a bit of effort, you will overcome the challenges of learning English and enjoy the process of learning a new language!
