Many people ask themselves, 'Apart from passing exams, how can I use the English that I've learnt to speak to foreigners and make friends? Will I be able to fully apply the English I've learnt as a communication tool for travel and in the workplace?' English is not simply a school subject; it is also a communication tool and a form of cultural expression.
In-depth English language learning is not only about reading and writing, it also includes cultural experiences.
Daniel O'Connor, Senior Teacher Adult Courses here at the British Council, says that the key to in-depth English language learning is active learning built upon the foundation of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Go a little beyond your current level and then apply what you have learnt practically, then repeat until it becomes a good habit. This will help you build up your English skills and become more fluent.
Daniel gives an example: 'If you are at a party abroad, will you still be taking down notes and underlining main points, like you would as a student? Or will you be chatting with others and gaining new experience?' Most people are not able to immerse in an all-English environment, and therefore they are unable to retain, and therefore use, the vocabulary and grammar they have learnt. As time goes by, they even lose their courage to speak English. People only know that they need to memorise vocabulary and that grammar is important, but the best way to prepare yourself for real life English speaking situatios is to incorporate learning into your everyday lifestyle.
If you would like to overcome the bottleneck of rote language learning, you need to use the language in your daily life, while travelling, in the workplace, and further get to know and understand the culture of English-speaking countries. This will help transform your English learning into a fun and fulfilling experience.
Internationally qualified MyClass teaching team - effectively boosting your English listening and speaking skills!
British Council carefully selects professional English teachers accredited by the foremost EFL accrediting bodies, such as the University of Cambridge, and Trinity College, to create relevant, tailor made learning materials for Taiwanese students. MyClass provides a total series of 18 themed courses in social English, everyday English, and workplace English. Learners can select lessons which they prefer, or to prepare for a particular situation according to their level and needs. For example, if you are hosting a conference, you can go to the list of courses on our app to select the English conference course to help you learn what you need. Apply what you have learnt immediately to increase the effectiveness of your English language learning.
In addition, we organise free monthly MyClub social events where you can experience different cultural elements such as enjoying fish and chips at a British-style restaurant, where you canexperience British culture and learn English at the same time. Or join the Christmas party where your teacher can show you how Christmas is celebrated in different English speaking countries. Other great events include visiting galleries, ‘Room Excape’ game days, hiking and going for picnics. Through the cultural and interactive experience, learning is stress-free and very effective!
Join MyClass and experience the benefits of an integrated cultural and language environment. You will discover that apart from listening, speaking, reading and writing, you can gain understanding of the culture in English speaking cultures, build up your confidence and fall in love with learning English!