Setting Goals and Establishing a Learning Plan
When it comes to teaching yourself English, setting goals and establishing a learning plan is crucial. Without these, you may not have a clear idea of what you want to accomplish or how to go about doing it. In this article, we’ll go over some steps you can take to help you create a learning plan that’s tailored to your needs and goals.
The first step is to set your language learning goals. What specific skills do you want to develop? Do you want to improve your speaking, writing, listening, or reading skills? Determine the specific areas that you want to improve on, and make them SMART – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-based.
For instance, instead of a general goal of “speaking English fluently”, you might set a specific goal to “speak with confidence and fluency in English for five minutes by the end of the month.”
Once you’ve established your language learning goals, use them to create a learning plan. A learning plan is a detailed outline of the activities, resources, and strategies you will use to achieve your goals. It should include a schedule of when and how you’ll complete tasks and assessments, as well as a list of the materials and resources you will use to support your learning.
One way to keep track of your progress and goals is by creating a language learning journal. It can be either digital or physical, depending on your preference. You can use the journal to reflect on your learning progress, set new goals, and record any new vocabulary, phrases, or grammar rules you’ve learned.
Another important aspect of establishing a learning plan is setting aside time for practice. Consistency is key when it comes to mastering a new language. Start small and gradually increase your practice time as you get more comfortable with the language. Make a schedule or calendar, and stick to it!
In addition to practicing, you should also incorporate the four language aspects – reading, writing, listening, and speaking – into your learning plan. These not only improve your language skills but also enhance your fluency and comprehension. Incorporating authentic materials such as news articles, podcasts, and other media into your learning plan can help you improve your listening and reading skills while giving you exposure to new vocabulary and idioms.
When it comes to speaking and writing, you can find a language partner or tutor, practice speeches and writing exercises, or even record yourself speaking to analyze the areas you need to improve on.
In conclusion, setting goals and establishing a learning plan are essential to teach yourself English. By following these steps, creating a SMART goal, make a language learning journal, setting up a regular practice schedule, and including all language aspects, you can take control of your language learning and reach your desired level of fluency.
Utilizing Free Online Learning Resources
If you are trying to teach yourself English, there are many free online learning resources that you can use. These resources can help you improve your reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Below are some of the most helpful online resources for learning English.
Duolingo
Duolingo is a popular language learning app that is free and easy to use. This app is designed to be fun and addictive, so you’ll want to keep using it to improve your English skills. The app features different exercises that will help you improve your grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.
BBC Learning English
BBC Learning English is a great resource for improving your listening and reading skills. It features news articles, videos, and audio clips that cover a wide range of topics. You can also find grammar and vocabulary exercises, as well as quizzes to test your knowledge.
Coursera
Coursera is an online learning platform that offers free courses on a variety of topics, including English language learning. You can take courses from top universities and institutions around the world, and learn from expert instructors. Coursera courses often include video lectures, quizzes, and assignments to help you learn and practice your English skills.
YouTube
YouTube is a great resource for improving your English speaking and listening skills. You can find channels that focus on teaching English, such as EnglishClass101 and Rachel’s English. You can also find videos that cover a wide range of topics, from news to entertainment and more. Watching videos in English can help you improve your comprehension and pronunciation.
Memrise
Memrise is another language learning app that can help you improve your English skills. It features a wide range of courses and exercises that are designed to make learning fun and engaging. You can learn English grammar, vocabulary, and idioms, and practice your pronunciation with native speakers.
By utilizing these free online learning resources, you can improve your English skills without spending money on expensive classes or tutors. With dedication and practice, you can become fluent in English and reach your language learning goals.
