Are you considering learning English? Many people recognize the importance of learning a language other than one’s own. If you are considering attending a university in an English-speaking country, pursuing a career where speaking English is a necessity, or traveling abroad, then you should begin preparing. Here are 10 signs that you are ready to learn English:
1. You Have a Specific Need to Learn English
Individuals who have a solid reason to learn English are ready. When you are motivated by a specific reason, it makes it more meaningful to pursue language learning. For example, if you are considering attending a university in an English-speaking country, you will need to learn English for success in your academic courses. Students see the importance of not only reading English, but also communicating their ideas in English effectively. Additionally, some language schools in DC, such as inlingua, offer pathway programs specifically for helping language students attend universities in Washington, DC and be successful in their academic pursuits.
2. You Understand Some English Already
Most people who are interested in learning English already know some of the language, such as the alphabet and a few basic words and phrases. However, they recognize that they need to learn to communicate more effectively to be considered proficient. Are you curious about what English speakers mean or how words and phrases are put together to express ideas? If you catch yourself listening to English speakers, but you do not fully understand the conversation, then you are ready to learn more. Understanding some of the language and being curious about what you do not understand is a clear sign.
3. You Recognize Slang
When you listen to English speakers communicate, are you also interested in slang and idioms? If you are also beginning to pick up on slang when you hear English speakers use it, like ‘cool’ or ‘yeah,’ then you are ready to learn more. Learning English should not revolve solely around a computer or a textbook, it should also involve communicating with native speakers. Native speakers will incorporate more than textbook vocabulary and grammar into their language speaking. Slang and idioms also communicate their feelings and ideas.
4. You Enjoy English Films, Television, and Music
Do you enjoy watching English films and television? Do you like to listen to music in English? If you enjoy listening and watching films with popular English actors and musicians, then your interest will help you learn English. Anytime you find pleasure in an experience you are more open to learning. If you enjoy spending your free time watching English television or listening to music with English lyrics, then you should consider studying English.
5. You Are Motivated
In addition to needing to learn the language for school, work, or travel, individuals who are motivated to learn English will work hard to master it. For example, people who are planning to work in a large company or in technology, finance, business, education, or the sciences know that English will be a basic expectation and are more motivated to learn the language than someone without a clear reason.
This is a reason why it is a good decision to study English in Washington, DC. Students are surrounded by native English speakers, so they are highly motivated to learn English to speak with their peers. Washington language school, inlingua, uses the communicative method where students are constantly practicing and learning how to communicate in various situations.
6. You Are Looking for Opportunities to Practice Speaking English
Have you been trying to practice speaking English with others? Individuals who are ready to learn English will often look for opportunities to practice speaking English. They will seek out conversations with native speakers. They will practice new words and phrases with their friends and family members. These individuals are not content to memorize grammar and vocabulary from a book or online without practicing what they are learning regularly by speaking.
7. You Are Ready to Devote Time to Learning English
If you recognize that learning English takes practice and commitment, then you are ready to devote time to learning the language. As discussed previously, true practice involves speaking the language constantly. You must choose to devote time to learning the vocabulary and grammar, but you must also aim to speak English throughout the day – inside and outside of your classes.
Learning English will not happen overnight. True language schools understand it takes time to become proficient in a language. For this reason, inlingua takes pride in students having “deeper fluency faster” through actually speaking English in the classroom 70% of the time.
8. You Are a Great Listener
Has anyone ever told you that you are a great listener? If so, then you may be ready to learn English. A key component to learning a language is paying attention through listening. Language learners should listen to how others pronounce words and phrases. Someone who can listen and learn from others will have an easier time learning another language. In an English course in Washington, DC, you will be surrounded by peers and trainers speaking English.
9. You Have a Good Memory
If you know you have a good memory, this is another sign you are ready to learn English. Being able to memorize new words is a key part of language acquisition. However, do not be discouraged if you do not think you have a good memory. People can learn languages at their own pace and through using different techniques. The best language schools are accredited with qualified teachers and teach languages using proven methodologies.
10. You Are Willing to Take Risks
Finally, a clear sign that you are ready to learn English is that you are willing to take risks. A true language learner is willing to take risks and even make mistakes to learn. These students are unafraid of saying the wrong word or pronouncing it incorrectly because they recognize this is part of the process. It takes courage to try something new. If you sense you are up to the challenge, then you are ready to get started.
