Back to school season is an exciting time for many students, especially for English language learners like you! It’s a chance to start fresh, set new goals, and make the most out of your learning journey. To help you succeed in your studies, here are some simple yet effective back to school study tips for English language learners to help you make the most of your new school year.
Create a study schedule
One of the keys to success in any academic adventure is consistency. Set aside dedicated time for your studies each day. Whether it’s 30 minutes or two hours, having a routine will help you stay on track and make steady progress.
Break it down
Studying for hours on end can be overwhelming. Break your study sessions into smaller, manageable chunks. Focus on one topic or skill at a time. This not only makes studying more digestible but also helps with retaining the information you have studied.
Use flashcards
Flashcards are a fantastic tool for learning new vocabulary and concepts. Create flashcards with English words on one side and their meanings or translations on the other. Review them regularly to reinforce your memory.
Set realistic goals
Set achievable goals for your English language studies. Whether it’s mastering a certain number of vocabulary words each week or improving your pronunciation, setting realistic goals will help you track your progress and stay motivated. Have you checked out our blog post on setting SMART goals? Use the handy template to set your goals for the year!
Practice listening and speaking
Language learning is not just about reading and writing; it’s also about listening and speaking. Engage with English audio materials like podcasts, songs, or movies. Additionally, find a language exchange partner or join a conversation group to practice speaking regularly.
Read regularly
Reading is an excellent way to expand your vocabulary and improve your comprehension skills. Start with simple books, newspapers, or online articles, and gradually work your way up to more complex texts as your proficiency grows. Explore effective reading techniques tailored specifically for English learners in this blog post!
Keep a vocabulary journal
Maintain a vocabulary journal where you jot down new words you come across. Include their meanings and example sentences. Review this journal regularly to reinforce your vocabulary. Use the Oxford Learner’s Dictionaries website to look words up and find their definitions.
Seek feedback
Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback from teachers, classmates, or language exchange partners. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement and accelerate your progress.
Use technology wisely
There are numerous language-learning apps and websites available that can make your studies more engaging and interactive. Explore these resources to supplement your learning.
Practice, practice, practice
Remember that language learning is a skill that improves with practice. The more you use English in your daily life, the more confident and proficient you’ll become. Try to think in English, write in English, and engage in English conversations as much as possible.
Stay patient and persistent
Learning a new language takes time, and you may encounter obstacles along the way. It’s important to stay patient with yourself and persistent in your efforts. Don’t get discouraged by mistakes; instead, view them as opportunities to learn and grow.
Back to school season is the perfect time to set new goals and recommit to your English language studies! By following these simple study tips, you can make the most out of your learning journey and steadily improve your English skills.
For even more tips and resources to help you on your journey to become an effective language learner, read this blog post and download our useful toolkit!
Thanks a lot Oxford family. It was really informative.