4 Ways to Improve English Fluency for Native Speakers of Other Languages

On this eve of Independence Day, my daily freedoms, pleasures, and opportunities remind me that we live in a land of peace and blessing. Opportunities are there for those who seize them and the possibilities are endless and inviting. This is why so many from other countries arrive on our shores, hoping to share in the freedoms.

Many of these immigrants arrive from places and lives that did not allow them to learn English first, and they may find that their opportunities are limited by their ability to freely communicate with others. While many community groups and courses exist to help people learn English or improve English fluency, it may be difficult to make steady progress toward fluency. So today, let's take a look at some of the easiest and most effective ways to accelerate language learning, especially in children and teens.

Improve English Fluency Tip #1. Listening- Begin with simple children's programming on television. I enjoy PBS because it is safe, commercial-free, and always family friendly. For those learning English, a show like Mr. Roger's Neighborhood is effective because he naturally spoke slower and with a simpler vocabulary for preschool children. The pace of the language is ideal for those listening to English as a new language.

As the language learner progresses he or she can add shows with more complex language and a faster pace. Great choices include Curious George, Sid the Science Kid, and even Sesame Street. Even adults can benefit from the simple language.

For advance language learners who want the common pace of language, watching the evening news on television is a good choice. Game shows, dramas, and even non-fiction shows like those found on Discovery Channel or the History Channel are great choices for developing vocabulary and following the content at a faster pace.

Improve English Fluency Tip #2. Reading- At this beginning level, the language learner can also start reading children's books, beginning with the simplest, and progressing to harder reading. Dr. Seuss books are a great place to start since many are very simple, and then a learner can progress to a harder level within his writing style. When a language learner has graduated to chapter books, authors like Beverly Cleary provide an advanced vocabulary and entertaining plots.

For other non-fiction reading, and to expand one's vocabulary, children's magazines are also a good choice. Some of my favorites are Highlights, My Big Backyard, and Ranger Rick.

Improve English Fluency Tip #3. Writing- So far we have discussed listening and reading, and now it is time for writing. I encourage my students and other language learners with whom I practice to keep a daily journal. I encourage language learners to write about anything of interest, and especially about his or her daily journey in language learning.

What are your feelings about this new country and new home? What are your favorite things, and what are the biggest challenges? What things do you most miss from home? What are your plans and goals now? What daily steps will you take to get there?

This journal develops writing skills on a daily basis, integrating vocabulary from the day, and also helps ease the frustrations of learning a new language and living in a new place.

Improve English Fluency Tip #4. Speaking- Speaking is often the most intimidating part of leaning a new language because it is active and apparent to those around you. English language learners may find that it is intimidating to go shopping, make friends at school or speak up in class. It is essential the student connect with those who speak English in order to practice. For adults, there are many community groups that may provide common interests where language learners can connect with other native speakers for natural practice and friendship.

For students, clubs both in school and out of school provide this same benefit. Joining clubs, sports, library clubs, and church youth groups can be tremendously beneficial to those learning English. While learning English is a high priority; making friends, feeling welcome, and finding a place in a new country will be just as important as English fluency. Let us not forget the needs of the heart!

In addition to these practical every day steps, an online tutor may be a great help to the language learner. Many students fall behind in class because they have trouble understanding the vocabulary for the content. A tutor can work with the student on assignments and also act as an English practice buddy.

Daily language practice in listening, reading, writing, and speaking will accelerate the rate at which the learner acquires a second language. With English fluency and confidence, the English speaker will be ready to meet the opportunities available in the English speaking world.

Related Articles