In school there may be no choice but to learn a foreign language and the options will be limited by the knowledge and ability of teaching staff. As English is one of the most widely spoken languages, it is likely that English may be one of the options. Although it may not be our favourite subject, if we start learning another language as children it is easier for our brains to accept and adjust to the new information, making it easier to absorb.
As an adult we may decide to challenge ourselves by enrolling on a foreign language course. As we have become very used to our own language, learning languages as an adult may take more effort, however when you get the opportunity to put your skills to the test, it can be highly rewarding. When adults are selecting a language to learn, you can sign up for a course to study any language of the world. English is still a popular choice primarily because it is widely used in business.
If you select English as your language to master, you are not along. According to English as a Foreign Language (EFL) statistics there are around 359million people who speak English as their first language. In addition 375 million people have English as a second language and they use it almost every day. Finally there are around 750 million people who use English to communicate on a less regular basis and many more people around the globe who are learning the language, either as beginners or improvers.
Beyond stretching your academic abilities there can be many other advantages to learning a foreign language. Gaining an understanding of these can help you to get motivated to learn to speak English. If you are motivated, you are more likely to put in the time and effort required to build knowledge and confidence.
Employment Opportunities
English is widely used in business. It is known as the ‘lingua franca’ which means it is used in business communications even when none of the business representatives have English as their first language. Individuals who are fluent in English are therefore more desirable during company recruitment campaigns, so have a greater chance to secure their ideal job. They are also more likely to get paid a higher salary than non-English speakers. In these ways learning English can support your career progression.
Travel, Study and Volunteering
English is the first language in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the USA and many small island nations. It is also widely spoken in parts of India and Africa. If you have a desire to travel and explore the world, either for business or pleasure, knowledge of the English language will make it less daunting and more accessible. Many signs in global airports are translated into English, so from the moment you arrive in a country, you can feel clearer about where to go.
Many people also like the idea of studying in another country, particularly America, Canada and the UK. The courses in these countries will be taught in English, so understanding the language is essential if you want to learn your chosen subject. A qualification from one of these institutions may have greater worth in helping you to fulfil your career aspirations.
Volunteering can be a great way to do something you are passionate about. You may want to support a good cause, or develop skills in a new area. Volunteering is also a good way to meet like-minded people. Again a knowledge and understanding of English will open up a greater number of opportunities.
Resources to help you Learn to Speak English
If you are keen to learn English, there are plenty of courses and resources to support you. The more you can read, hear, speak and write, the easier it will become. Picking up the basics is relatively straight forward, but listening to pop music, watching films, putting up posters, listening to conversations are all ways to help your brain to become familiar with some of the complexities for the English Language. Enjoy the experience and the opportunities a grasp of another language can bring! For further support visit: http://englishgrammarmap.co.uk/