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1.2: Learning English at a University

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    Maybe you have studied at a university before, but learning a new language is a special goal that needs a special set of tools in order to succeed.

    This chapter will discuss three sets of learning tips to help you get on a great start to learning English.

    • General learning tips for university classes
    • Tips for improving speaking and listening skills
    • Tips for learning vocabulary in a second language

    General Learning Tips for English Learners

    Follow the learning tips below to improve your language learning. Remember that learning must happen in the class with your teacher and classmates but also outside of class in your own time. Use English as much as possible!

    In class

    • Speak only English as much as possible
    • Sit by someone who doesn’t speak your language in class
    • Ask a lot of questions when you don’t understand
    • Before you translate a word in your dictionary to your language, try to understand the word from its context (the words around it)
    • When the teacher asks a question, raise your hand to answer. Don’t be afraid to try.
    • Be brave and speak- don’t be shy to try your English skills

    Outside of class

    • Use resources available to you at your school
      • Use conversation partners and tutors
      • Visit your teacher’s office hours for questions and practice
      • Go to free parties and events on campus with English speakers
    • Go to community events where English is spoken
    • Listen to the news, radio, and TV in English
    • Review old vocabulary words and
    Discussion Questions
    1. How many of the learning strategies listed do you already use?
    2. What are 2 or 3 new strategies from the lists that you can try this week?
    3. Do you use any other learning strategies that are different from the ones discussed here?

    This page titled 1.2: Learning English at a University is shared under a CC BY-NC 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Della Jean Abrahams (PDXOpen publishing initiative) via source content that was edited to the style and standards of the LibreTexts platform; a detailed edit history is available upon request.