Introduction

The recent global events have led to school closures, which has impacted students’ learning experiences, especially those studying English as a second language. During these challenging times, it is crucial to find effective ways to continue learning and improving English skills. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how students can maintain their English learning journey during school closures.

Setting Clear Goals

Establishing Daily Targets

The first step in keeping up with English learning is to set clear daily goals. These goals should be realistic and achievable, ensuring that students stay motivated and engaged. Here are some examples of daily targets:

  • Grammar: Practice a new grammar concept each day.
  • Vocabulary: Learn and use five new words or phrases.
  • Listening: Listen to a short English podcast or audio book.
  • Reading: Read a passage from an English novel or article.
  • Writing: Write a short paragraph or essay on a given topic.

Creating a Study Schedule

To maintain consistency, it is essential to create a daily study schedule. Allocate specific time slots for each activity, ensuring that students have a structured approach to learning. Here’s a sample schedule:

  • Morning: 30 minutes of grammar exercises
  • Afternoon: 1 hour of reading and vocabulary building
  • Evening: 30 minutes of listening and 30 minutes of writing practice

Engaging with Learning Materials

Utilizing Online Resources

There are numerous online resources available to help students learn English during school closures. Here are some popular platforms:

  • Duolingo: Offers interactive language lessons.
  • BBC Learning English: Provides articles, videos, and quizzes on a variety of topics.
  • Coursera: Offers online courses taught by university professors.
  • Khan Academy: Offers free resources for grammar, vocabulary, and listening skills.

Participating in Online Communities

Joining online communities can help students stay motivated and connected with peers. Some popular platforms include:

  • Reddit: Subreddits like r/LanguageLearning and r/EnglishLanguage provide support and resources.
  • Language Learning Forums: Platforms like iTalki and HelloTalk allow students to connect with native speakers and practice conversational skills.
  • Facebook Groups: Join groups focused on English learning, such as English Learners or ESL (English as a Second Language).

Practical Tips for Learning English

Incorporating English into Daily Activities

To make learning more enjoyable and effective, incorporate English into daily activities. Here are some suggestions:

  • Watch English Movies and TV Shows: Choose subtitles in English to improve listening skills.
  • Listen to English Music: Sing along and try to understand the lyrics.
  • Cook with English Recipes: Read recipes and learn new vocabulary related to cooking.
  • Play English Language Games: Engage in word games and puzzles to reinforce learning.

Keeping a Learning Journal

Keeping a learning journal can help students track their progress and stay focused. Encourage students to record their daily activities, reflect on what they learned, and set goals for the next day.

Conclusion

Although school closures have disrupted the traditional learning environment, it is possible to keep learning English during these challenging times. By setting clear goals, engaging with learning materials, and incorporating English into daily activities, students can continue their language learning journey and emerge stronger and more confident in their English skills.