Reading is one of the hardest skills to master when learning
the English language, as often words are not spelt the way that they are
pronounced. You should always be 100% focused when reading because of this. Sometimes
people like to push themselves too much and while it’s great to have that
confidence, the outcome isn’t always satisfactory. You should start with
reading at the level you’re at; if you’re a beginner, don’t buy an advanced
book, as you will just get frustrated. This could have a negative effect on
your enthusiasm and you may even start to question your ability, which you
should never do! It will of course take a little effort to achieve, but Twin’s English Centres are here to support you, and their professional, friendly and qualified teachers will guide you all the way and provide you with all the resources and help
you will ever need.
When you’re out and about or watching TV or listening to the
radio, have a notepad handy to write words down so you can search for them
online or in a dictionary later and look up their definitions. This is a great
way to extend your vocabulary, as we all know that the same word could have
different meanings or uses. As we are on the topic of watching TV, it’s very
useful to put on subtitles when watching the news, documentaries, soaps and
other programmes. That way you are hearing the correct pronunciation and you
can check the spelling at the same time. Making notes like that and matching
words and spellings will help speed up the process of your learning immensely.
It’s essential that you read a lot; it is very useful to
read out loud, this way you will get to practise pronouncing words correctly. Also,
there’s no doubt that new words will come up all the time which you can look up
in a dictionary, so you’ll increase your vocabulary. The more you read the
quicker the progress. Set yourself goals, use a timetable showing all the free
time you have and use some of that spare time for reading. It doesn’t have to
be hours, it could be just 15 minutes or half an hour a day, as much as you’re
comfortable with. You could also take a book or magazine with you on the train,
especially if you have a long journey; it will keep you entertained and you
will be learning at the same time.
Doing quizzes with your friends can also help; memory tests
such as writing words down, covering them up and trying to spell the words is a
fun and easy way to learn, too.
Make sure you read something you enjoy and are interested
in, be it fact, fiction, or magazines. As I mentioned before, do not forget , read
at your own level until you feel you’re ready and feel confident about moving on
to the stage. You could also try and read to someone else so that the can give
you feedback; feedback and constructive criticism help you to learn, as people
will praise the things you’re doing well already and can help you with the
aspects you still need to work on.
I hope these tips will help you improve your reading and pronunciation, and soon reach the level of English you are aiming for. And don’t forget, Twin’s English Centres are here to help, so give it some thought and maybe join one of our courses!