How to learn English effectively?

17 August 2020

Learning English as a second language is always a challenging task.

Here are some practical tips to help you.

1.Study phrases not words (ucz się wyrażeń a nie słów)

When you study English, you shouldn’t learn individual words. Memorising them makes no sense without context. Try to study whole phrases. It is easier to remember them if you know what they mean and how they are used in a sentence.

2.Learn by listening (nauka przez słuchanie)

Reading textbooks is great for grammar and vocabulary, but it is not helpful to learn how to carry out a conversation. If you want to learn how to speak English, learn by listening and not by reading. Listen to real English (radio, tv, films)-the more often, the better.

3. Prioritise quality over quantity (priorytetem jest jakość nie ilość)

Don't learn hundreds of new words in a short time, you should focus on learning one word and repeating it as often as possible. Try to avoid information overload. This strategy allows you to place the meaning of words and phrases deeper into your brain and you won’t forget them easily.

4. Learn grammar with “point of view” stories (ucz się gramatyki w oparciu o słuchanie opowieści w różnych czasach)

One of the best ways to learn grammar is to listen to short stories in various tenses. This will help you improve your English grammar automatically and more naturally. Try to retell the story using past, present and future tenses-practices makes perfect!

5. Listen and answer, not listen and repeat (słuchaj i odpowiadaj a nie słuchaj i biernie powtarzaj)

If you want to improve your English, don’t use the strategy used by English textbooks, which is to “repeat after the speaker.” Answer all the questions asked. For example, if you’re listening to a podcast or video, pause it every 20 to 30 seconds and create a brief summary.

6. Practice speaking and listening every day (ćwicz codziennie)

Sometimes you are alone -don't worry-you can practice English while taking a shower or going for a walk. Use the Internet to chat with English-speaking friends.

7. Be optimistic and proud of yourself (bądź optymistą dumnym z siebie).

Positive feeling and emotions are key factors. Don't worry too much about the progress. Learn seriously but always have fun at the same time.