Improving English Speaking Skills

Jul 9, 2024

Improving Your English Speaking Skills

Introduction

  • Common problems in learning English
  • Strategies and methods for improving
  • Sponsor: CAM, platform for practicing English with native tutors

Problem 1: Vocabulary

  • Issue: Words don't come to mind easily
  • Solution: Identify this as a vocabulary problem
  • Importance of Vocabulary:
    • Relevant for beginners to advanced speakers
    • Traditional methods (reading novels, newspapers) may not work for everyone
  • Advice: Follow the 80/20 Rule (Pareto Principle)
    • 80% of results come from 20% of efforts
    • Focus on conversational words (3,000-5,000 words)
  • Strategies:
    • Avoid memorizing entire dictionaries
    • Use technology: Record and listen to frequently used words
    • Pick multi-use words for broader applicability

Problem 2: Making Mistakes

  • Issue: Frequent errors in speech
  • Solution: Accept that making mistakes is part of the learning process
  • Advice:
    • Don't aim for perfect grammar initially
    • Use simple grammar books
    • Learn the basics: subject-verb agreement, prepositions, adverbs, adjectives
  • Strategies:
    • Study 150 basic grammar rules to start with
    • Forget about mastering complex grammar rules early on

Problem 3: Hesitation and Lack of Confidence

  • Issue: Hesitant to speak despite knowing some English
  • Solution: Exposure and confidence-building exercises
  • Advice:
    • Picture visualization: Describe images to practice vocabulary and sentence construction
    • Watching movies with subtitles
    • Speaking in front of a mirror
  • Strategies:
    • Use 45-second speaking exercises
    • Engage in impromptu speaking tasks
    • Increase exposure to English conversations

Problem 4: Advanced Confidence Issues

  • Issue: Lack of confidence in higher-level English skills
  • Solution: Practice speaking with native speakers
  • Advice:
    • Speaking with native speakers improves confidence and fluency
    • Real-world application: Understanding conversation structuring, pacing, etc.
  • Example:
    • Practicing with a tutor on CAM
  • Strategies:
    • Experience with diverse nationalities for broader understanding

Conclusion

  • Developing language skills is a logical, structured process
  • Avoid getting bogged down by the vastness of the language
  • Follow specified approaches to make effective progress

Action Items:

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  • Drop comments for further questions or book recommendations