English Preparation Strategies

Introduction

• Focus on English as a language, not just a subject.
• Traditional methods (like memorizing grammar rules) may not be effective.

Step 1: Cultivating Reading Flow

• Importance of Reading:
  • Read books, short stories, novels, newspapers, editorials, and articles.
  • Incorporate reading into your daily schedule.
• Measuring Reading Speed:
  • Read a text for 1 minute and count the words read to determine your words per minute (WPM).
  • Example provided: 260 WPM.
• Improving Reading Speed:
  • Method 1: Read in front of a mirror to challenge yourself.
    • Read word by word for 5-10 lines.
    • Follow up by reading normally.
  • Alternative Method: If mirror is unavailable, turn the book upside down.
• Benefits: Increased WPM aids reading comprehension in exams.

Step 2: Expanding Vocabulary

• Word Power Improvement:
  • Avoid overly technical books like "Word Power Made Easy."
  • When encountering new words (e.g., "contentious"), write them down with meanings, synonyms, and antonyms.
  • Create sentences using new words to enhance memory (e.g., "I had a contentious argument with my parents about buying a new phone.").
• Scientific Method for Vocabulary:
  • Use your non-dominant hand to write new words to activate different neurons in the brain, aiding recall.

Step 3: Word Usage

• Importance of Context:
  • Understand how to use words correctly in sentences, especially during exams.
• Practical Application:
  • Watch English commentary during cricket matches or movies/series to reinforce vocabulary in context.
  • Example: Remembering the word "despise" through character dialogue.

Conclusion

• Implement these strategies and methods into daily routine.
• Monitor improvements in reading speed and exam performance.
• Part 2 will cover preliminary and mains examination strategies.
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