FAQs

ELL student FAQs:

Creative and Efficient English Learning

How can I learn English more efficiently?

Keep in mind that it takes time, effort and motivation to be able to achieve a higher level of English proficiency. Taking ESL classes and attending ESL tutoring sessions certainly help you learn English under guidance of our experienced ESL instructors and tutors, but learning doesn’t only take place in class or in tutoring lab.

Outside of the formal learning environments, you may try different language learning strategies and find out which ones are most suitable and practical for you. In general, try to expose yourself to English and use it as much as possible. At the same time, make sure to keep the level of exposure and use of English consistent. You may create your own language learning schedule (i.e., designating times for listening, reading, speaking, and writing in English).

To keep yourself motivated while learning English, you may also try any of the following ‘fun’ ways to learn English. We hope that one or more of these strategies will suit your learning style.

A few ‘fun’ ways to learn English outside the classroom:

1. Use entertainment such as movies, TV shows, and songs as tools to learn English.

2. Seek opportunities to use English both in and outside the classroom (e.g., at a cafeteria, at a bus stop, etc.)

3. Join different activities and/or clubs where you can meet and interact with other people in English.

4. Keep a language learning journal or diary in which you can write and take notes in English. You may write something new you have learned (e.g., new vocabulary, new expressions, and new ideas) in the journal. Many ESL and international students find it fun and helpful to journal about their excitement or frustration in adjusting to the new culture and their new language learning experience.

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