How to Improve English using Immersion methods

How to Improve English using Immersion methods

Aug 01, 2018 - 10:56 AM

Why is it so hard to be fluent in English once you become an adult? Why it is so hard to improve your accent and pronunciation even when you can speak some English? Why is it so hard to speak English naturally without losing confidence?
These are all real problems that adults face when they try to be fluent in English as adults.
Traditional approaches to learning a foreign language involve constantly reviewing lists of vocabulary words and memorizing endless conventions (i.e. grammar, punctuation, etc.).
Students of another language will pay hundreds of dollars for textbooks that contain more information than could possibly be gleaned.
This learning style works for some learners. However, unless you are planning to participate in formal writing, there are other methods for learning a foreign language that require very little grammar memorization.

However, ask any toddler what the difference between a noun and a verb is and they’ll give you a perplexed look. This is evidence that one need not memorize conventions to formulate coherent sentences.There are three keys to becoming conversational in a target language without spending hours grinding through textbooks.

Speak Regularly with Native Speakers

There is no replacement for immersing oneself in a language by conversing with a native speaker regularly.
Being prompted to communicate in a certain language to articulate one’s thoughts necessitates rapid learning. In fact, this technique is similar to that used by toddlers. If a new learner wants to express something, they must formulate a sentence in their target language to do so.
Speaking is also the fastest way to learn what is considered acceptable in specific cultures and languages. Oftentimes, writing and speaking have vastly different rules and norms. By speaking with a native speaker, the learner will pick up on subtle tone changes, accents, and intonations that aren’t apparent in any textbook.
Furthermore, it is much easier to hone one’s vocabulary and sentence structuring skills when hearing the language used by a speaking partner. For this method to be successful, consistency is key. Meeting only one or two days a week may be beneficial for learning vocabulary or common phrases.
However, to truly be fluent in English, learners must begin to think in their target language. It never hurts to plan ahead of a conversation session what you want to express and how you can do so. Ask your conversation partner about issues that arose during planning. Together, you can strengthen your grasp of the language and proficiency communicating without cracking a textbook or learning grammar rules.

Immersion through Media

Another highly effective strategy for learning a language without memorizing grammar involves media. Music, television, podcasts, radio, and books are all beneficial tools for learners.
It is not uncommon for language learners to quickly reach intermediate levels simply by watching their favorite TV show in another language. Initially, try to choose shows or audio that you are familiar with in your native language. You should be able to recognize certain scenes or phrases in your target language.
Media also serves as a one-sided conversation partner in between sessions with a teacher. Learners may learn new phrases, slang, and cultural references by viewing media produced in or about countries that speak the target language. This method is also much less costly than purchasing textbooks. Anyone can stream or download audio files in their target language.

To be fluent in English as an adult with no grammar memorization is possible. You just have to practice!

The common theme throughout all these approaches is consistency. I took four semesters of Spanish in college. On a recent visit to Spain, I found practical application for almost nothing I learned in class.
Furthermore, when speaking in a foreign language, the last thing that comes to one’s mind is what was read in a textbook. Constant exposure to new phrases and words is crucial to being able to communicate effectively.