Thursday, July 25, 2013

Learning To Speak English Successfully

By Michael Obrien


People who relocate to English-speaking countries often want to learn the language so that they can get a job, make friends, and have an easier time adjusting to the country's culture. However, learning to speak English has been noted to be a difficult task if someone is not a native speaker. That person may have problems conquering basic lessons, let alone the complexities that this tongue can present. As they set about to master this language, people are cautioned to be mindful of several important reminders.

The first thing people might recall is that this tongue is spoken quickly by native speakers. People who speak it naturally often use quick speech patterns that include eliminating letters and whole sounds, as well as slurring together syllables. Someone who has never before spoken it might have a difficult time understanding a native speaker.

The same thing can be said when encountering speakers of certain dialects. People in Texas say "y'all" while people who live in Wisconsin say "yous guys". It is highly unlikely that students will be taught the different dialects. Aiming for generic pronunciation and realizing that the dialects exist, yet are not indicative of typical speech patterns can help students overcome their confusion.

Pronunciation is one thing; however, spelling and reading are other parts of becoming fluent. Spelling can be difficult because so many words have similar spellings or similar pronunciations. Pupils might be confused about when to use a particular variation. Because these words sound alike, some people may think that they have the same meaning.

Successful students likewise may face initial problems having native speakers be patient with them. People who speak it flawlessly and in fact grew up speaking it might become impatient with a student who is just taking his or her first lessons and makes a lot of mistakes while talking. It can be difficult to keep up with lessons when natives make fun of them or get impatient with them.

This tongue has different levels of proficiency. While many students come out of their lessons with a child-like understanding of the words and pronunciations, they may not have the mastery to accept employment that requires professional speech patterns. They must realize that they may need more help to reach the professional requirements for these jobs.

Students' success might also be compromised because of slang. Each country and region has its own slang terms. These terms, however, often do not make it into lessons that are given to novices. Hearing natives speak in slang can be confusing. However, as they gain exposure, people get used to it and become proficient in their conversations.

When people start learning to speak English, they could do well to remember the special nuances to this tongue. Dialects, slang, and informal speech patterns can throw people off as they try to master it. Being patient and getting used to the irregularities of it can help people successfully complete their lessons and become expert speakers.




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