|
English as a Second Language (ESL) - Tips for Students
Are you moving to an English
speaking country? Will you need English for your career
or your education? If so, you may wish to investigate
your options for learning, or improving, your English
skills.
The TOEFL Test
TOEFL (Test Of English as a Foreign
Language) is a test used by many colleges, universities,
government agencies and exchange and scholarship programs
in the US, UK and Canada as a means of evaluating the
language skills of a person whose first language is
not English.
TOEFL study guides can be obtained easily
online with other recommended resources listed. You
may be able to access some of the sample tests and prepare
with personal study. Or you may look for a class with
an instructor to help you prepare for the test.
ESL Classes
ESL classes are a common means for students
to learn English with group of classmates. These can
be in the form of an evening class with various individuals
attending or may be part of a college program during
the day.
The course length and the topics covered
will differ from country to country and school to school.
Some summer programs are geared for international students
to gain a basic grasp of the language before starting
studies in English taught classes of the college or
university.
Since the standards of passing a course,
or the course material itself, will vary drastically,
some students may feel that the language skills gained
upon completing the course does not equip them to handle
school work or social interactions adequately.
Other schools may include home-stay
programs for students. Home-stay programs benefit the
student by placing them for several weeks or months
with a host family that speaks English. The student
is then able to immerse him or herself in the culture
and social speaking of the English country they are
living in.
There are also online ESL programs that
may be suitable for distance education, especially if
programs are not readily available in your area.
Private Tutors
Another popular method of learning English
is with private tutors. The materials and methods used
by ESL tutors will vary greatly and it is important
to establish what material will be used and to feel
comfortable with the tutor. Asking friends or other
students for references can be helpful in finding a
good tutor.
Some individuals may wish to combine
methods; perhaps taking a summer course while staying
with a home-stay host family and then arranging for
private tutoring during the school year. Making an effort
to use your new language skills regularly in social
situations will improve your progress regardless of
the program or course you are using.
1howto.com
--------------------------------------------------
Please
Share Your Tips with Us
|
