Three Tips For Studying English As A Second Language
American English has long been said to be one of the most difficult languages to learn. That reputation has led many people to hesitate when it comes to learning it. The truth is that many of the things you may have heard aren't necessarily true. Before you dismiss your opportunity to learn so you can pass the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), you should know these facts about learning English as a second language.
You Can Learn English At Any Age
Some people believe that you cannot become fluent in English unless you start studying it as a child. Although learning new languages can be easier when you're younger, that doesn't mean that it isn't possible to learn English fluently at any point in your life. If you are ready to commit the time to the process, your age will be largely irrelevant to your results.
For the best chances of success, start studying in short sessions. By working in segments of a half-hour or less each time, you'll avoid overwhelming yourself in the earlier stages of the learning process. These short sessions give you the chance to focus on a single key skill each time, which makes it easier for you master concepts.
You May Be Able To Lose Your Native Accent
Many new English language learners fear that they will never lose the accent that comes from their native language. For some, this can cause concerns about being understood. The truth is, native English speakers have various regional accents, so many accents may be overlooked entirely. Focus on speaking as clearly as you can with each new sound that you learn. The more focus you put on your enunciation, the less your native accent will come through.
The longer you speak English, the more you may find that your native accent softens. This happens especially when you're surrounded by native English speakers because you'll hear words spoken without that accent regularly. The more unaccented English you hear, the more likely you are to start adopting those speech patterns.
You Can Get Help Preparing For The Tests
If you're going to be taking the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), you don't have to approach it by yourself. There are many services out there offering tutoring and other support to help you prepare. You might even be able to take some practice tests to help you master the skills.
Learning to speak American English doesn't have to be intimidating or overwhelming. With the information here, you can overcome many of the fears that new learners may have. Knowing the truth and seeking the right support will help you to learn the language with confidence.