I am just starting new classes at the university, and students sometimes ask me what are the keys (or secrets) to learning English. As part of this discussion, I often point out four things:
- Natural ability
- Motivation
- Effective study skills
- Out-of-class activities
I'd like to share some thoughts on #3 for today. Many students, unfortunately, have little understanding on how their study patterns or habits affect how quickly (or not) they learn the language. In my grammar class, I test all of my students by recording and grading their productive use of the grammar in CONVERSATION. In other words, I give them a situation and then record them using the grammar in natural conversation rather than using a paper test. Unfortunately, studying and reviewing the textbook in a quiet corner of the library by yourself will do very, very little to help you PRODUCTIVELY use the language when you need it in real conversation. However, this is a method used by many students to study for PAPER tests. Students just don't know or see any other way to study.
Therefore, I hold regular speaking workshops after school where students can practice their speaking skills in more natural situations. I also encourage students to use the grammar we are studying in their other classes as a way of recycling and reinforcing the structures we are studying.
Learning to use the language takes a lot of practice, and just being in a foreign country where the language is spoken isn't enough if you spend most of the time in your apartment alone.
So, please share your ideas on the topic.
Best,
Randall