Learning English as an adult is usually harder than learning it as a kid—especially because adults have more commitments and less time to devote to language learning. But it doesn’t have to be this way if you want to learn a language that isn’t your native language.
With the right strategies and mindset, mastering English as an adult is achievable. Whether you’re a new resident in Canada, an adult child accompanying your parents, or someone who has landed a job here, practicing some effective tips for learning English can make a difference.
So, take note of these English-learning tips! Get ready to enhance your language skills.
1. Know Your Level
Before you explore other tips, you should know your English proficiency level. Are you a complete beginner, or do you have some prior knowledge? Knowing where you stand helps you set realistic goals, choose appropriate learning materials, and track your progress accurately.
💡Read more: How to Determine Your English Proficiency Level
2. Use English Whenever Possible
One of the best tips for learning English quickly, no matter the age, is to immerse yourself in the language. Engage in everyday conversations and think in English as much as you can.
If you’re a business professional looking to improve, you can also try practicing by using English in emails or the workplace. Make it part of your daily life and you’ll find yourself getting more comfortable with the language. It also helps to surround yourself with people, media, and books to help understand the context, pronunciation, and natural flow of the language.
Trust us. The more you use it, the more natural it becomes!
3. Join a Language Group or Club
Speaking of immersion, another way to enhance your English language skills is to join a language group or club with fellow language learners. This an excellent way to meet new people and practice conversational skills.
💡Bonus Tip: The group or club you join doesn’t necessarily have to be specific to language exchange. You can join sports clubs, hobby groups, or other organizations you’re interested in. The important thing is to surround yourself with native English speakers who can help you practice speaking and listening and who can maybe give you some tips.
4. Take Formal Classes
All these tips will help you, but taking a formal English class is the fastest way to learn. Formal education offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to improve all aspects of English language learning—speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
Not only will you get excellent tips to learn English quickly, but you can also enjoy guidance and feedback from experienced instructors. This will help you correct any mistakes or issues.
5. Focus on Communication First
English learning tips matter most in real-life situations, whether ordering food, asking for directions, or discussing a topic with colleagues. If you want to improve your English skills as an adult, prioritize speaking and understanding over grammar rules. Phew, right? Not many people like grammar rules!
While English grammar and structure are important, fluency is about more than correctness; it’s about expressing yourself naturally. Real-life conversations involve different accents, speeds, and vocabulary. When you focus on communication, you learn to adapt and understand various English styles.
6. Pay Attention to Pronunciation
Correct pronunciation enhances overall language skills, not just your English speaking skills. Focussing on pronunciation from the beginning allows it to become easier to understand and be understood by others.
One of the best tips for learning English as an adult is to improve your pronunciation. We recommend you familiarize yourself with the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). It helps you understand the precise sounds of English words.
💡Bonus Tip: Pay attention to native speakers. Observe how they pronounce words, stress syllables, and link sounds together.
7. Read Aloud
Here’s another great strategy: read aloud. This allows you to practice the sounds of English and helps you become more familiar with its phonetic patterns. You can focus on articulating each word correctly and work on challenging sounds. It also helps improve your reading skills (like your speed and rhythm) which will translate into smoother, more confident English speaking skills.
8. Learn the Culture
Immersing yourself in the culture of the English-speaking country you live in or plan to live in is a great way to learn the language. Language and culture are deeply intertwined, and gaining cultural knowledge can provide insights into idiomatic expressions, humour, social norms, and traditions indispensable for effective communication.
Cultural knowledge also helps you understand the context of conversations, texts, and media. So, we can safely say if you learn the culture, you’ll learn the language!
9. Use Technology
One of the top obstacles for adult language learners is time. When you have work, school, or life commitments that eat away at your day, it can be difficult to improve your English steadily.
Fortunately, the language learning community now has access to technology that can help. One of our favourite English learning tips is to use these resources and tools.
For example, download a language exchange app like Duolingo and Babbel or join online English courses if you need fun, interactive, and flexible learning options. You can learn English fast without sacrificing your work and other commitments! And it might just be fun.
10. Keep a Language Log or Journal
When talking about how to learn English quickly and efficiently, one of the best ways is to track your progress. It helps to have a language log or journal to document your learning journey, reinforce new vocabulary, and reflect on the language challenges you’re facing.
Not only does this practice help keep you motivated, but it also provides you with a clear roadmap for improvement in your English proficiency.
How to Learn English in Canada
With dedication, the right resources, and these awesome tips for learning English, you can easily master English as an adult. But if you want to make the journey even more fun, enjoyable, and efficient, enroll in the International Language Academy of Canada’s (ILAC) Adult ESL Programs!
As Canada’s most-awarded English language school, ILAC offers comprehensive language programs designed to enhance English proficiency and prepare you for the full Canadian experience. Plus, with ILAC Night School, you can study at your convenience whether you’re a parent, a working professional, or have other commitments.
Learn English at our convenient location and get access to a diverse learning environment with expert instructors. Apply now!
