How Social Activities Help Improve Your English Through Active Learning
The old saying is true: “practice makes perfect.” When you are learning English, practice can mean many different activities, including reviewing flashcards, doing written work, or having conversations with your classmates.
But you can also practice outside of the classroom. Social activities are a fun way to improve your English. Doing group activities with your peers is a form of active learning, and gives you the chance to practice your language skills in a relaxed setting. If you are attending ESL school in a new country, it can also be a great way to make new friends and see more of your new home.
Many teachers say this type of practice is essential for foreign language learners. Find out more about how social activities will help improve your English skills.
Social Activities Are Opportunities to Communicate in English
Having a conversation in a new language can be overwhelming. It is very different from memorizing vocabulary, writing an exam, or answering a teacher’s questions, and many students find it more difficult.
However, most people find that the more they speak, the easier it gets. Social activities provide more opportunities to improve your English speaking skills and practice communicating.
Students have a chance to enjoy a meal and talk to each other during a potluck
For example, when you have a potluck with your classmates, you all bring a dish of food to share. This fun activity gives you the chance to start conversations, practice new words, and learn about other cultures. This helps you connect what you learn in the classroom with a real-world situation, and can make speaking English less daunting.
Peer Support Is Helpful When You Study English in America
One of the most important ways social activities contribute to the improvement of language skills is through peer support.
When you study English in America, you will meet people from around the world who have similar language learning goals.
It is true that when you talk to your classmates, you might make more mistakes than when you talk with a teacher. However, this can be a positive thing. When you are in a social situation there is less pressure to speak perfectly, so it is likely that you will speak more. Peers can also correct each others’ mistakes, which is another form of active learning that will help you improve.
Social Learning Is Collaborative and Increases Confidence
Many language education experts say that social activities provide an opportunity for collaborative learning. This is another part of active learning, and can be very valuable to your development.
Social activities, like going to a restaurant with classmates, will help boost your confidence
When you have a conversation with someone in a social setting, you will work together to communicate. This will help you develop speaking and comprehension skills at the same time. It will also help to build your confidence and make you more comfortable having conversations in English.
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