These last few days have given you, I am sure, some extra time to watch a few shows online or on TV. Now the question is, are you watching them in English?

If you are reading this, it is most likely that you are keen on improving your English skills and are looking for ways to help you do it quickly. I am sorry to say that there is no “immediate” way to learn English but there is so much you can do to improve. One of the most recommended steps is to speak, speak, speak, but I know that is easier said than done.

The next step you can take is to watch all those fabulous series and movies in original version. I know you think it is exhausting and for some even impossible, but I guarantee you that if you get into the habit of watching everything in English, it will get a lot easier. Think of it kinda like the gym. The more consistent you are and the more frequently you go, the easier and perhaps even more fun it becomes. Same here…

So, here are a few steps to help you get started and things you can do to help you learn while watching. But above all, remember to relax! Have fun and sit back:

First of all, be aware of active and passive vocabulary. Active vocabulary are words or expressions that you are familiar with and easily understand or even better, are already in your dialogue when speaking English. These are phrases you do not need to worry about when listening to English.

Passive vocabulary are words you might be familiar with (or not) but rarely use or are not sure how to. This can happen simply because you do not have the opportunity to use English as frequently.

Second, be an active listener when watching something in English. Have a pen and paper near you and take note of words and phrases you are attracted to or not familiar with. But Don’t sweat it! Take a few notes and try learning them but do not take down more than 5 to 7 words/phrases. This should be out of curiosity and not pressure.Then make sure you say these words out loud for at least a week. Memorize them, practice them, play with them!

Third, if absolutely necessary, use subtitles, but in English only! Start making that change now. Even if it is difficult, I guarantee you that if you keep trying, you will eventually catch on and be able to understand more and more each time.

Fourth, choose the right material to watch. News and soap operas are the easiest to watch. Comedies and sitcoms are the most challenging due to the slang and collocations used so pick something adequate for your level and interests.

Join a speaking club! That can either be a book club, movie club, whatever your interest is and start putting those skills to work. You will start seeing a considerable difference and at least more confidence in what you watch and read.

If you are interested in setting up a club, feel free to contact me and we can get you started!

Finally, if you want an added challenge, try a podcast. There are some great resources out there today to learn both English and lots of other fun facts.

Shows to watch:

Best Netflix TV shows to watch in 2020

10 Best movies to learn English with

The best shows on Netflix to learn English (both British and American)

My favorite Podcasts:

Hidden Brain (American)

Modern Love (American) Did you know Amazon Prime has a series out on this podcast and it is incredible!

Desert Island Discs (British)

Meditative Story (American)

PHOTO SOURCE: Image Magazine

We are all currently facing some serious changes to our daily lives and I have no doubt many of you are going through unexpected challenges as we adapt to working from home, wearing face masks, not seeing our loved ones as closely or frequently as we would like to and countless other factors that we do not have time or heart to name. But I do want to believe that there is a silver lining  to all of this. Change is never easy, but sometimes change in itself brings on many other opportunities that we are not aware of.

As many of you find yourselves at home, I want to offer you the possibility of taking on some of your forgotten objectives. There has never been a better time to learn, study and improve those skills you tend to push back because your are simply too busy. Now is the time to consider taking on English again and stepping into a short moment in time when nothing else matters but how you are improving your skills and advancing your knowledge.

I find that when I work with my students for that short hour or hour and a half, I come out happier, more hopeful and positive that they are learning and feeling better about themselves. And maybe, that is the silver lining in all of this, finding those windows of time with others and spending some slow time learning and growing.

Here are a few things for you to consider:

Starting English Classes again! I have been told classes during the lock down have been a small oasis.

Read our blog Loud and Clear for fresh ideas and practice

This amazing short film that demonstrates the power of empathy

This lovely podcast to remind us all that everything is always changing

I hope to see all of you more frequently and soon, whether it is on the screen or even better, in person.

Take care and be well.

Love, Heidi

Photo Source: Cuddle Clouds