With so many rules, exceptions and quirks in the English language, becoming fluent is no easy task. But there are things you can do to help build your English language skills to make becoming proficient easier. And if you’re planning to take the TOEFL iBT® test, improving your skills in the four main areas of proficiency - speaking, writing, listening and reading - will be key to achieving a high score on the test.
Build your English language proficiency skills with these tips:
- Watch TV: The general rule when you are trying to study for something is to turn the TV off, however, when you are trying to learn a new language, the TV can be a helpful tool. TV shows, movies, news programs and videos on YouTube are all great ways to expose yourself to conversational English and will build your listening and speaking skills. It’s also helpful to have subtitles/captions on because both hearing and seeing words together will help your brain process the language more easily.
- Listen to music: Sometimes it’s difficult even for native English speakers to understand the lyrics in music, but if you look at the lyrics (usually available online) while you listen it will help you connect to the song and the language.
- Read books you’ve already read: Reading a book in English that you’ve already read in your native language will help build your skills because you have a sense of what’s happening already in the story and will start to be able to understand the English words more readily. Reading a book along with audio will also strengthen the connection between words, sounds and meanings.
- Write it down: Don’t be afraid to ask questions about a word or phrase you don’t understand. There are many quirks in the English language that don’t necessarily have clear explanations. If you encounter a word or phrase that you don’t understand, write it down and either research it yourself or ask someone to explain it.
- Talk it out: Have as many conversations as you can in English with native English speakers. Ask them to let you know if you say something incorrectly and let them explain the correct way to you. If you don’t understand something they are saying, ask for clarification. This is how you will learn the many nuances of the language.
- Immerse yourself: Museum exhibits, plays, social groups and other interactive venues all provide real-world exposure to the English language. The more exposure you get to all the language building blocks of reading, writing, listening and speaking, the more easily your brain can process and assimilate the new language.
- Practice makes proficient: No one speaks English perfectly, even native speakers, but you won’t become proficient without practice. TOEFL TestReady, as well as other resources online can provide the kind of practice you need to feel confident in your English language proficiency and being prepared for the TOEFL iBT test. TOEFL TestReady is a comprehensive prep portal containing a collection of products for all learners, so you feel confident taking the TOEFL iBT test and in the classroom.
The bottom line:
Engaging in these suggestions, along with the prep materials that TOEFL offers, will give you the best chance at achieving a high score on your TOEFL iBT test and the confidence to study in English speaking program.