Learning a new language helps with personal growth and is a useful skill for work. A report from the University of Portsmouth shows that people who don’t learn another language may miss job opportunities. Speaking a second language can have a positive impact on your career.
However while learning, many students might make mistakes that don’t help them progress their language skills. This article explores common mistakes students make when studying a new language. Avoid these mistakes and learn more effectively, retain information, and hopefully make progress!
Not being consistent with your studies
Regularly reviewing what you learn in class and practising at home is a great way to improve your understanding. For example, if you learn new vocabulary in class but can’t remember the meanings, try looking at your notes and testing yourself.
Active recall is a method of testing yourself to bring information from your memory instead, like speaking the vocabulary out loud, instead of just reading it again. This helps your brain remember things better.
To review and remember new words, practise writing sentences with them. This will help you understand their meaning and spelling.
After each English lesson, take time to review what you’ve learned. This will help you move the information into your long-term memory.
Not communicating in the English language
Learning a new language without practising speaking is a common mistake. Many students feel afraid to speak English because they worry about making grammar mistakes – but this is normal. Mistakes are a chance to learn and improve.
Remember, being around the language helps you learn a lot. Start by listening to conversations, then try speaking in short and simple sentences to build your confidence.
The more you speak, the more confident you will feel. Over time, you won’t worry about making mistakes as much!
Setting high expectations on yourself
Learning a new language fluently does not happen overnight. It can take months or even years (depending on your level, and commitment to study). For example, I have been practicing kickboxing for 2 years and have only just started mastering proper kicking techniques.
Learning a new skill is a gradual process that requires dedication and hard work. You must be prepared for this. At Speak Up London, progress is measured every 3-4 weeks through student testing. This is a great way to evaluate how much of the English language you have learned and improved.
Final thoughts
Learning a new language fluently takes time. It can take months or even years, depending on your level and how much you practise. For example, I’ve been doing kickboxing for two years, and I’ve only just started mastering proper kicking techniques.
Learning a new skill is a slow process that needs dedication and hard work, so it’s important to be ready for this. At Speak Up London, your progress is checked every three weeks. This is a great way to see how much English you’ve learned and improved!
Author: Uwais, a teacher at Speak Up London