For immigrants new to the U.S., the challenge of learning a second language can be tough. With so many options available, what’s the best way to learn English? Read on as ESL tutor Gina C. shares her tips…
Learning a new language can be daunting, especially when that language is English and you’ve just arrived in the United States. You may feel overwhelmed by everything from navigating daily conversations to understanding American slang.
But don’t worry! This blog post will give you a glimpse into learning English in America through the eyes of a recent immigrant. With these tips, you’ll be speaking like a native in no time!
How Can I Learn English in the USA?
Learning English in the United States can be a great way to gain fluency in the language:
- A flexible approach is key, as there are many avenues available depending on your budget and goals.
- Consider utilizing online resources such as podcasts, video tutorials and interactive programs to get the basics down before joining conversation groups or other programs like ESL to practice speaking with native speakers.
- Take advantage of local library events related to language learning, such as open discussion circles or cultural exchange nights, where you can connect with other learners while practicing language skills.
All of these methods will help you develop proficiency at a comfortable pace and make learning English in America one of the most rewarding experiences possible.
One more tip for learning English in the USA? Sign up for lessons. ESL lessons will help acquaint you with every aspect of this nuanced language, like what you see in the video below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U5xYTR9Ne3w
Why Should Immigrants Learn English in the US?
Moving to a new country can be quite daunting, especially if you don’t speak the language. Learning English is essential for immigrants in the US, as it not only helps you communicate with others but also allows you to take full advantage of all the opportunities available to you.
Learning English has a number of benefits that will help immigrants get settled in their new home and make them feel more comfortable while living in the US.
For one, it allows immigrants to communicate with their neighbors, colleagues, and friends more effectively. This makes it easier for them to build relationships with people around them, which can be crucial for making new connections and feeling part of their local community.
Moreover, having a good command of English opens up numerous job opportunities and educational pathways that would otherwise be inaccessible.
Furthermore, learning English can help immigrants understand American culture better by giving them access to books, films, TV shows and other popular media from the US.
Knowing how to speak English also gives immigrants an edge when it comes to using technology such as computers or smartphones; many apps are only available in English and even those that are available in other languages often feature fewer options than their English counterparts.
Recommendations for Students Learning English in the US
I recently interviewed Francy M., who arrived from Columbia seven months ago. Francy started studying English in her home country in high school, but only a little; now, she knows she needs to learn to speak and understand English if she hopes to work in the U.S., so she made that her primary goal when she arrived here.
When I asked Francy, a native Spanish speaker, what the main challenges are to learning English, she noted that the writing is very different. “Words are not written as they are pronounced like in Spanish.” Also, she has to translate in her mind to be able to say what she wants to say and then many times she just does not have the English words to express what she is thinking.
These are just some of the challenges that students learning ESL face. So, how do you make learning easier? If you are new to the U.S. or have been here a while, but feel you need to improve your English, there are several different ways you can go about doing this.
Community College ESL Classes
You can take ESL classes through a community college. Those don’t start at the beginner level, but may be appropriate for someone who knows some English and wants to start training for a career or getting college credits. If obtaining college credits is not part of your goal, but you have other aspirations such as improving your English to obtain a job or perform your current job better, you may want to consider a qualified coach, teacher, or small group option.
Government-Subsidized ESL Classes
The government offers subsidized ESL (English as a Second Language) classes, usually available through the Adult Education Program at various high school districts. But due to budget slashing, those programs are often a challenge to get into. The other drawback is that there are usually 30+ students in a class and you are forced to go at the pace of other students who may be slower than you. Or, conversely, you may be confused and may not get all of your questions answered.
Computer-Aided Instruction
- Rosetta Stone: Francy uses Rosetta Stone and says that it’s a good program, but not without having a class or tutor as a resource for consulting. “The program raises questions for me, like why does 3rd person singular have an s? And, what is the –ing ending? Since I am in a class, I can take my questions to the teacher.” Without a class to supplement your learning, I’d recommend working with a tutor or coach to walk you through the questions that come up when using Rosetta Stone or any other application or website for learning a language. The truth is, without a subject matter expert and the opportunity to practice, you may end up confused or may understand but not be able to actually produce as in conversing.
- YouTube: Francy has found other tools to be helpful, as well. She searches for “How kids learn English” on YouTube and looks for children’s songs as well as popular songs that include lyrics, such as Fool’s Garden’s “Lemon Tree“.
- ESL Websites: Another resource that Francy uses are ESL videos created by the Sacramento County Office of Education. They can be found at The California Distance Learning Project. If you click on “Other Learning Websites” at the top, you will be directed to many more free websites for learning English, including video, audio, and written scripts.
Best Schools to Learn English in the US
If you’re looking for the best schools to learn English in the United States, you’ll be met with a vast array of options. From renowned universities to private language institutes, there’s something available for everyone’s learning needs. Enrolling in a formal program of study is a good option for most students, though it is also the most time-consuming.
While all of these educational establishments offer excellent teaching and resources, school rankings and faculty experience can help narrow down your search when deciding which English-language program is right for you.
Whether you choose an online course or a complete cultural immersion program at a university campus, learning English has never been easier or more accessible. With the right school, knowledge and proficiency will follow quickly!
Learning English in the US Textbooks
One great way to add structure and guidance to your language learning journey is to make use of Learning English in the US Textbooks. These resources can provide valuable insights into cultural references and syntax that may otherwise be difficult to pick up on by just listening.
Not only do these textbooks have loads of helpful information, but they are also full of interactive exercises and activities that will help you master specific concepts faster. As an added bonus, learning with a textbook makes it much easier for you to track your progress to keep motivated and on top when it comes to speaking English!
How Much Does it Cost to Study English in the USA?
If you’re considering studying English in the USA, you may be surprised to discover just how much the cost can vary.
Depending on which school or program you choose, studying English in the USA can range from a very affordable option to an expensive one.
Many large universities offer discounted prices for international students, while some intensive programs require full tuition fees. You should also factor in costs such as transportation and books, which could quickly add up if you are not careful.
Choosing a budget-friendly option does not necessarily mean you have to compromise on quality of education but it is important to do due diligence in order to find the right school and program for your needs and budget.
Learning English in the US – Not a One-Size-Fits All Solution!
Of course, you’ll need to figure out what options works best for you. When Francy first got here, she enrolled in a private institute in the East San Jose area that was recommended by a friend. Perhaps if she knew more about American culture, she would have been suspect that the name of the school was in Spanish. If she had done her due diligence, she would have noticed that there were no reviews for it online nor much information. She enrolled and began taking classes and quickly realized it “was a waste of time” because the English class was conducted mainly in Spanish. Later, she sought out a community college. She is satisfied with her decision to use a community college, but it is good to keep in mind that the U.S. offers a variety of ways to learn English. If Francy had known about TakeLessons, she could have found a reputable tutor right away who could have gotten her on the right track to learning English.
Because Francy is so resourceful, I told her that she will be able to learn English with her dedication and ingenuity. She told me, “Thank you. Ojalá.” I fed her the English, “I hope so!” If you are looking to learn English and have found that the mainstream programs do not fit your schedule or needs, consider finding an ESL tutor or small group instructor who can get you speaking English quickly!
Gina C. teaches languages, including English, ESL, and Spanish, in San Jose, CA. She received her MA in Hispanic Studies, her BA in English Literature, and has over 25 years’ experience teaching English, Spanish, and Business Communication. Learn more about Gina here!
Photo by Southwest Key Programs
Suzy S.