Techniques for Learning English

Jun 12, 2024

Techniques for Learning English

Speaker's Goals and Challenges

  • Speaker has long struggled with learning English
  • Sets a goal for the year to significantly improve their English skills
  • Current skill level: 2-3 out of 10 (target is level 5)
  • Motivation: Read English books, communicate with foreigners
  • Began practicing early February after reading "Atomic Habits"

Atomic Habits Overview

  • Book focuses on creating small habits that lead to significant long-term changes
  • Example: Exercising regularly for small amounts of time can lead to better health
  • Belief that these principles can be applied to learning English

Techniques Used Over the Past Month

Importance of Motivation

  • Essential to have a clear reason for wanting to learn English
  • Common reasons: Watching movies/series, improving work prospects, personal growth
  • Knowing your 'Why' helps sustain long-term commitment

Creating New Habits

  • Major steps for creating a lasting habit (with examples related to phone addiction):
    1. Make it obvious: Place learning materials where you can easily see them
    2. Make it attractive: Combine with enjoyable activities
    3. Make it easy: Simplify the habit, so it's easy to start and perform regularly
    4. Make it satisfying: Have immediate rewards for completing the habit

Making Learning English Obvious

  • Schedule specific times and days for practice
  • Example: Watching English movies on Friday, Saturday, Sunday mornings
  • Write down the schedule to increase commitment

Diderot Effect

  • Use existing habits to build new ones
  • Example: If you drink coffee every morning, combine it with reading in English
  • Eliminates the need for a separate time slot for the new habit

Making Learning English Attractive

  • Combine learning with activities you enjoy
  • Examples:
    • Drink coffee while reading English
    • Watch English-language interviews with subtitles
    • Read English books that interest you

Making Learning English Easy

Use of Technology and Apps

  • Technology aids in speaking English regularly without embarrassment
  • Recommended app: ELSA Speak, helps practice pronunciation using AI
  • Reduces fear and awkwardness in speaking English
  • Practice consistently to overcome shyness

Key Features of ELSA Speak

  • Discover section for role-playing and scenarios
  • Provides hints and feedback
  • Useful for both beginners and advanced learners
  • Tracks progress and offers immediate feedback

Making Learning English Satisfying

  • Human nature seeks immediate rewards
  • ELSA Speak provides scores and feedback
  • Encourages continued practice by showing tangible improvements

Summary

  • Essential steps to create a sustainable English learning habit:
    1. Make it obvious
    2. Make it attractive
    3. Make it easy
    4. Make it satisfying
  • ELSA Speak app recommended for effective learning
  • Special discount available using the code FOLK for 50% off in April
  • Encouragement to integrate English practice into daily routines for better success