You know you want (and need) to learn English. However, are you stuck trying to decide between taking private English classes or group lessons? If so, you are not alone. It is a difficult decision, and one that varies from person to person. Some students learn best in private English classes while other students learn better in group classes.
As you consider taking English courses in Washington DC, this is one of the things you should think about when choosing a Washington language school. For instance, some language schools in DC only offer group lessons, which means those looking for private English classes will need to eliminate these from their lists. Fortunately, schools like inlingua, offer various programs to meet the needs of all types of students.
Ultimately, you will want to choose a school and an English program that will be the most effective at helping you learn how to use English fluently. To help you make this decision, let’s discuss the key differences between private English classes and group English lessons.
Factor in Your Personality
No two people are alike, so what works for one student may not work for another. For instance, if you are introverted and shy, you may feel more comfortable in private English classes where you learn English one-to-one. In contrast, some students are more outgoing and extroverted and thrive in interactive group settings. These students will most likely benefit from group English lessons.
Private English Classes are More Flexible.
Private English classes offer students more flexibility. In group lessons, you will have set class times and a regular class schedule. However, private lessons can be scheduled around your schedule. If you need to arrange lessons around your work schedule, this is a great option.
Private English Classes are Tailored to Meet Your Needs.
Since private classes offer one-to-one instruction, your lessons can be tailored to meet your needs. You can tell your tutor or trainer your goals, and he or she can develop a curriculum designed to help you meet these goals. For example, if you are hoping to learn English for business, then your lessons will be tailored towards learning how to speak business English.
Private English Classes Allow You to Work at Your Speed.
In group lessons, you will move through lessons alongside your classmates meaning you may feel behind or held back depending on where you are. However, in private lessons, you move at your own speed – not moving forward until you have mastered a skill. Likewise, you can also move forward without having to wait on others.
Private English Classes Provide Personal Attention.
In private classes, you will have all your teacher’s attention. If you need help or have a question, you can receive help instantly. In group lessons, you will have to wait your turn. Additionally, it means all your conversations will be with the teacher rather than having to practice conversations with fellow students.
Private Classes are More Expensive.
Typically, private English lessons are more expensive than group lessons which is a major determining factor for many students.
Group English Lessons are More Interactive.
Group English lessons are more interactive than private lessons. In group lessons, students will interact with the teacher and each other. There will be opportunities to practice conversations, as well as role play, work together on projects, and play educational games.
Group English Lessons are More Immersive.
For students wanting a truly immersive experience, group lessons give students opportunities to immerse themselves in the language. In group classes, students interact with one another, but they also learn about American culture together through class celebrations, activities and field trips.
Group English Lessons Help You Learn from Others.
While you will have your teacher’s full attention in private lessons, in group classes you will learn from your classmates on a regular basis. By listening to your classmates speak and ask questions, you will be learning things you may not have thought about on your own.
Group English Lessons Led to New Friendships.
One of the best parts about studying a new language is that it presents you with the opportunity to develop new friendships. By speaking English, you will be able to become friends with others who speak English. A major perk of group English lessons is that you will learn a common language and make new friends as a result.
Group English Lessons are More Affordable.
Group English lessons tend to be more affordable than private English lessons. This is a big reason why many students choose to take group lessons over private lessons. However, as you can see, cost is only one factor in choosing between private or group English lessons. The most important factor is finding a program that meets your English learning goals.
Still Unsure? Consider Combo Programs!
After reading through the comparisons, you still may feel torn. It is a hard decision because both private and group lessons are effective. If you are looking for an intensive English program designed at developing fluency, then look no further than inlingua. In addition to offering general English programs with nine levels ranging from beginner to proficient, inlingua also offers special purpose programs, a pre-college program, and combo programs.
If you want the best of both worlds, inlingua’s combo program is what you want! This unique program combines their General English Program and private lessons. This ensures students who want additional personalized instruction can receive it in addition to their group lessons. However, they still get to participate in all the group lesson fun.
Plus, there is no need to worry about intimidating large classes at inlingua as their average class size is only 8 students. Or, you can choose to take a semi-private lesson with inlingua. These classes have 4 students or less.
Furthermore, inlingua personally pairs students with a trainer for private lessons by considering the student’s learning style and English needs. While students in the general English program will gain valuable IELTS test preparation, some students choose to benefit from additional test prep lessons.
