Dos and don'ts

Dos

Things you should do when learning English

1

Produce

In order to learn, you must produce. English pronunciation is tricky and requires a lot of oral practice. Say words out loud when you're learning them. Writing helps you memorise vocabulary and forces you to make conscious grammar choices.

2

Build connections

Learn vocabulary from the world around you. Use visual imagery, your own experience, your memories and your knowledge about the world. Bilingual vocabulary lists are not enough.

3

Revise

You want your vocabulary in your long-term memory. It requires patience, determination and time. Go back to the stuff you learnt months ago. You'll be surprised to see how much you've already forgotten!

4

Learn English outside the classroom

Unless you're on an intensive language course with 20 hours of English a week, you will need additional learning opportunities in order to progress. Watch videos, listen to podcasts and don't be afraid to strike up conversations with foreigners!

Don'ts

Seriously. Don't!

1

Don't select Polish voiceover when playing DVDs

The most fluent non-native speakers of English are the Swedish and the Dutch. All foreign TV shows in Sweden and the Netherlands get subtitles instead of voiceover or dubbing. You do the math!

2

Don't try to memorise vocabulary from long bilingual lists

You'll only waste time and enthusiasm. To remember words and phrases you need context, visual stimuli, examples, interaction and repetition.

3

Don't stop learning

Well, you can be sure you will never stop forgetting what you've learnt so far...

4

Don't get discouraged

Don't worry too much if after years of learning English you still have a hard time understanding native speakers when they're talking at their natural pace. You're not alone! And besides, they will surely appreciate your English even if it's not perfect.