Learning English online is an effective way to improve your English. But with any type of learning you need to be prepared. This blog will give you advice and tips on how to get the most out of your online lessons.
Make sure everything is set up
This is an obvious point but also an important one. Make sure that your computer is freshly turned on, that everything is plugged in correctly and that you have tested the connection. Testing the connection is easy with skype. You can make a test call which will test your sound and also your microphone. Doing this before the class means that you will be ready for when the lesson starts.
Come prepared
Do your homework and exercises in good time before the class. If you have been sent an article by your tutor read this carefully and underline anything that you don’t understand. Reading it out loud before the class is great practice and it will make it easier for when you do it again in the class. Practice the grammar that was set in your last class and write down any questions that you may have so that you won’t forget them when the lesson starts.
Understand what is being taught
When grammar or anything else is being taught make sure that you understand it. You won’t need to practice it at this time, just make sure that everything is clear. The practice will come later!
Conversation
Every class is an opportunity to practice your English with a native and qualified tutor. Try and allow the conversation to flow, listening and talking in a natural way. This is your chance to talk English without worrying about too many mistakes. Don’t worry, the mistakes will be corrected later!
Relax
Come to class feeling relaxed and excited. You should always enjoy language learning and this is especially true for online classes. I am currently learning Spanish and try to enjoy every lesson I have and every exercise that I do. I know that I get more out of it this way and it makes it a lot more fun!
After the lesson
After the class do something different. And then within a couple of days review what was taught in the class. You will always receive exercises after every class. Try and do your excises after the review so that you revisit what was taught twice before your next class.
Any comments on how you prepare or approach for online language lessons will be welcome.
Jack Askew @ JDAenglish.com
