Written English Tests vs Real Conversations: What’s Missing?
Many people find taking English tests much more difficult than speaking in everyday conversation. In everyday situations, they can understand what others are saying, respond fairly fluently, and maintain the flow of communication. However, when faced with test questions, their confidence drops and they feel stressed.
Why Memorizing Vocabulary Lists Is One of the Least Efficient Ways to Learn Words
Many foreign language learners believe that the more vocabulary they learn, the faster they will become fluent in a foreign language. It is no surprise that memorizing vocabulary is often a top priority in the learning process, especially when people recommend you to memorize more than 10 new words everyday. Though memorizing vocabulary one by one can actually make it more difficult for you to understand and use in conversations if you don’t learn and practice it with context.
Literal Translation: Why It Confuses English Learners More Than It Helps
Have you ever tried to translate an English sentence, word by word, in your mind and you feel that it doesn’t make sense? Well, that’s a common phenomenon for beginner English learners. The technique you’re doing is called literal translation […] The main problem with literal translation is that this technique ignores the structure and patterns of English sentences.
Here’s Why You Understand Written English Better Than Spoken English
Have you ever found that reading English feels a lot easier than understanding it when people speak in daily conversation? You can read articles, messages, or information without much difficulty, but real conversations feel unclear or stressful. Don’t worry, this is really common among English learners, and it doesn’t have much to do with your vocabulary or grammar as you might have thought.
English Phrases for Buying Time When You Don’t Know What to Say
In everyday conversation, people often pause before responding. They think, organize their thoughts, or refine their answers. Instead of remaining silent, articulate people use short, natural expressions to keep their role in the conversation active.
One Language, Two Styles: Building Your Study Abroad Strategy
In the academic and writing world, the debate between the use of American (US) and British (UK) English often causes confusion. It isn’t uncommon for one style to be considered superior to the other. However, in the academic world, especially in academic writing, the key is not the choice of style, but consistency.
Why Subtitles Are Your Best Friend (And When to Turn Them Off)
Have you ever watched an English movie with subtitles by your side? For many learners, subtitles are a reliable companion that makes watching more enjoyable while playing a more crucial and strategic role for foreign language learners.
The Science of Shadowing to Improve Speaking Fluency
Have you ever felt like you’ve memorized thousands of words but still feel uncomfortable when speaking in an actual conversation? One of the most effective solutions to overcome this is the shadowing technique.