A lot of my students like to translate in their head. It makes replying or giving an answer in English so much SLOWER and HARDER.
- Most of the time, the grammar is wrong.
- I know what you mean, if I do the translating in my head, but it doesn't make sense in English
So, what should I do (is this you?):
FIRST, STOP translating in your head and start to THINK in English by including English into your daily life.
Here are some tips for you:
5 tips to include English into my daily life:
1. Combine habits: it's hard to create a good habit, so use the ones you already have.
Can't stop looking at your phone? Change your phone settings to English. Now, you can look at English even if you are just checking your phone.
Do you listen to music while going to school or work? Listen to English songs! Follow along with the lyrics and even better, sing along.
2. Use sticky notes: Put labels on objects around you.
Stick the English names to anything you see and can get your hands on.
It could be on your window, door, desk, pen, paper, book and everything you see.
You could start with words (book📖), then make a phrase (read a book👀📖), then make a sentence (I like to read books.💁❤️📚/I like the smell of books 💁❤️👃📚)
Surround yourself with English!
3. Make it fun: this is so important to create a close relationship between you and English.
Watch videos/TV shows/movies with English subtitles
Read storybooks/comic books
Listen to English songs: help to improve pronunciation and listening skills
Combine English with your interests.
4. Use social media: use the power of social media to help you learn
Can't go a day without using instastory? Every time you post, find one thing in the picture and put the English name on it. Think of it like a game. If you don't know the word, then put it as a question. I'm sure one of your friends would be happy to help :)
5. Talk to yourself in English: you can do this anywhere and anytime
Ask yourself questions. Answer the questions in FULL SENTENCES (Why? Because you make more mistakes when you answer in more words.)
What should I have for breakfast? (X) A sandwich (O) I'll make myself a sandwich.
What do you need to do today? (X) Go to the doctor's/pick up your friend/go grocery shopping (O) I need to _________________. (go to the doctor's/pick up your friend/go grocery shopping)
Who is calling me? (X) Jack (O) Maybe Jack is calling me.
One last thing: Do NOT use a bilingual dictionary! Use an English-English one!
Here's a one: Dictionary
Don't want to practice alone? Looking for a partner to practice with? Check out the post below which links to my Instagram post inviting people who would like find a practice partner.
If you are looking for an English coach to guide you through your English learning journey. You can have fun while you learn! Don't be shy! Reach out to me and send me a message.
↘ Which method do you like the most? Comment below!↙
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