8 things you should try to avoid when learning English

Charlotte Guest
Charlotte Guest
Friends studying together around one big table
Reading time: 4 minutes

Learning a new language is an exciting and rewarding journey, but it can also come with its fair share of challenges. As English learners, it's important to recognize and overcome the common pitfalls that could hinder your progress. Here, we provide advice and guidance on what not to do to make your English learning experience as smooth and successful as possible.

Things to try avoid when learning English
Reproducir
Privacy and cookies

By watching, you agree Pearson can share your viewership data for marketing and analytics for one year, revocable by deleting your cookies.

1. Avoid listening to people who say learning English is difficult

English is spoken all over the world and is often a top choice for those wishing to learn a second language. That means that a lot of people have already had success learning it. English is sometimes considered a hard language to learn due to the number of exceptions to rules, irregular spelling and pronunciation, and the variety of different accents and dialects. But by maintaining your motivation and breaking up the task of learning English into manageable steps, you can achieve success, too.

Remember, many learners have successfully mastered English despite these challenges. With the right approach and mindset, you can, too.

2. Try not to separate English from the rest of your life

Going to English lessons is a great basis for learning, but don’t switch off your use of the language as soon as you step out of the classroom door. To be a successful English learner, try to immerse yourself in the language outside the classroom. This works particularly well if you also involve your own interests, so listen to English-speaking songs by your favorite artists or watch movies featuring your favorite actors.

There are plenty of other ways to pick up new words or to keep up your learning motivation.

Integrating English into your daily life helps reinforce what you learn in class and makes the learning process more enjoyable and effective.

3. Stop comparing yourself to other learners

No matter what level of skill you have, it’s almost certain that your fellow language learners won’t be at exactly the same level as you. Everyone learns at different paces – and that’s ok. Whatever level you’re at, you’ve worked hard to reach it, so be proud of that fact and keep going. And don’t feel you have to apologize for being at a different level.

Comparing yourself to others can be demotivating. Instead, focus on your own progress and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem.

Explore our language learning tools like Mondly by Pearson

4. Avoid waiting too long to speak English

Learning English is a skill and, just like other skills such as driving a car or playing a musical instrument, you need to practice it. It might be that you’re waiting for the confidence to speak in English, but don’t wait too long – the sooner you try out your English, the faster your ability will improve.

Speaking English early and often helps build confidence and solidify learning. Don't be afraid to make mistakes; every conversation is a valuable learning opportunity.

5. Try not to fear making mistakes

Don’t live in fear of opening your mouth to speak English and making an embarrassing mistake. Nothing bad will happen if you do say the wrong word, and fear can be a strong barrier to overcome. Instead of worrying about how people will react to your attempt to speak English, have the confidence to try it out – and simply learn from any mistakes that you do make.

Mistakes are a natural part of the learning process. Embrace them as opportunities to improve and grow more proficient in the language.

6. Avoid getting tangled up in grammar

Every language has grammatical rules, and getting used to them is just part of the process when learning a language. But many languages have easy aspects of grammar, too, so don’t focus on the harder parts of the English language but try to continue your progress by learning the easier bits first. For example, did you know that English has a simple past tense? It isn’t a hard and fast rule, but you can find the simple past tense of many English verbs by adding “-ed” at the end. Yes, there are a handful of irregular verbs – but not many – so once you’ve memorized those, you’re all set.

Focusing on the simpler aspects of grammar first can help build your confidence and provide a solid foundation for tackling more complex rules later on.

7. Don’t rely solely on translating

While it may be tempting to use an online translator to translate everything from your primary language to English, this practice can actually slow down your learning process and lead to misunderstandings. English has its own unique structures and idioms that don’t always have direct equivalents in other languages. Instead, try to think in English as much as possible and immerse yourself in the language.

By reducing your reliance on translation, you'll start to understand the language more intuitively and improve your fluency.

8. Avoid staying in your comfort zone

Learning a new language is full of challenges, and it's easy to stick with what you already know. However, to truly improve, you need to push yourself out of your comfort zone. This could mean speaking with fluent speakers, trying to read more complex texts, or watching films without subtitles. The more you challenge yourself, the more you will learn and grow.

Embrace new experiences and challenges as opportunities to refine your English skills and become more confident in using the language.

Conclusion

Learning English requires dedication, persistence and a positive mindset. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can make your learning process more enjoyable and effective. Remember, every learner's journey is unique, so focus on your own progress and celebrate your achievements along the way.

For more tips and advice on learning English, be sure to check out our other blog posts.

Read our language learning blogs here

More blogs from Pearson

  • two young women stood outside a phone box posing for the camera
    Understanding slang terms from across the UK
    Por Charlotte Guest
    Reading time: 3 minutes

    The English language (British English in particular) is a fascinating mix of regional dialects and unique slang, shaped by centuries of history and cultural influences. Throughout its long history, the UK has had many invasions and visitors. From the Romans in ancient Londinium to the rolling hills of the Saxon heartland, and from the Viking raiders of the north to the Norman conquerors of the south, each wave of historical influence has shaped the dialects of the UK. Each region of the United Kingdom has its own distinct flavor of language and accent. Today, we embark on an English slang tour to explore some of the expressions from different regions.

    1. West Midlands: "Bostin'"

    Let's begin in the heart of England, the West Midlands. Here, you might hear the word "bostin'" thrown around quite a bit. This charming expression simply means "excellent" or "fantastic". So, if someone says your meal was "bostin'," you can rest assured your cooking skills have earned top marks.

    2. East Midlands: "Duck"

    If you head east to the East Midlands region, you might come across a term of endearment that could feel surprising if you're not used to it. Local people often call each other "duck", regardless of gender or age. It's a friendly and informal way of addressing someone, similar to how people in other regions use "mate" or "love". 

  • A teacher stood in front of a whiteboard teaching a class
    Lesson tips for Special Educational Needs
    Por Richard Cleeve
    Reading time: 5 minutes

    Creating an inclusive classroom is essential for helping every student reach their full potential. Students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and neurodiverse learners bring unique strengths, perspectives and ways of thinking to the classroom. However, many teachers feel unsure about how to adapt lesson plans to effectively meet diverse learning needs.

    By implementing inclusive teaching strategies, educators can create engaging learning environments that support students with ADHD, dyslexia, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), anxiety disorders and other learning differences. These approaches not only benefit neurodiverse learners but often improve engagement and outcomes for the entire class.

    Drawing on insights from experienced SEN Coordinator James Laidler, this post explores practical lesson planning strategies that can help teachers create more accessible, supportive and effective learning experiences. Many of these tips are also great for keeping all students engaged, SEN or otherwise.

    Defining Special Educational Needs

    A child has Special Educational Needs (SEN) if they have a learning difficulty or disability that calls for special educational provision. Learners with conditions such as autistic spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, dyspraxia or anxiety disorders come under this framework.

    Inclusive lesson tips for neurodiverse students

    Although teachers want to create inclusive lessons, many feel ill-equipped to support neurodiverse students. To help, James offers some tips for lesson planning that aim to turn learning diversities into strengths.

    Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

    ADHD is a condition that can include symptoms such as inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Students with this disorder may have a short attention span, constantly fidget or act without thinking.

    Lesson tips for ADHD students:

    Movement breaks – Students with ADHD may struggle to sit still for extended periods of time. Include short breaks in your lessons that offer them the opportunity to get up and move around at regular intervals.

    Group work – To keep learners active and engaged, include group work in class. This means they don’t have to focus on the board for too long.

    Dramatize lessons – A really effective activity is to bring drama into the classroom. For example, students can act out role plays or other fun drama-based activities. It keeps them motivated, holds their attention and can be fun for all of the class.

    Dyslexia

    Dyslexia primarily affects the skills involved in accurate and fluent reading and spelling. It may affect a person’s phonological awareness, verbal memory and verbal processing speed.

    Lesson tips for dyslexic students:

    Visual aids – Learners with dyslexia tend to have excellent visual memories. Try bringing in pictures to illustrate ideas or add them to lengthy texts to help students when doing reading comprehension exercises.

    Font and spacing – When setting reading tasks, simply changing the font, enlarging the font size and double-spacing are hugely beneficial to dyslexic students. Simply adapting the text can make their learning experience much easier.

    Text-to-speech software – Using specialized text-to-speech software often provides significant support to those who struggle with reading or digesting text on computer screens. Tools such as ClaroRead or Kurzweil 3000 can help improve accessibility.

    Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

    ASD is a developmental condition that involves challenges in social interaction, speech and nonverbal communication, as well as restricted or repetitive behaviors. The severity of symptoms is different in each person.

    Lesson tips for ASD students:

    Encourage systematic skills – Often students with ASD may be more systematic than other students. This means they favor routines, regular processes and predictable activities. Try bringing out these skills by asking students to spot patterns, analyze numbers or evaluate data.

    Talk about interests – Autistic students may have specific interests they love to research. Engage them by getting them to talk about their hobbies or ask students to create projects on a topic they choose that they can present to the class.

    Teaching online or blended learning – If you have a learner who is struggling socially at school, it may be an option to include hybrid or blended learning. This takes away some of the social and emotional challenges of school and people interaction, which can benefit ASD students.

    Anxiety Disorders

    Anxiety disorders differ from normal feelings of nervousness or anxiousness. They involve intense fear or anxiety that can significantly affect a student’s ability to learn. This condition has become increasingly common in young people and can impact concentration, participation and confidence in the classroom.

    Lesson tips for students with anxiety disorders:

    Changing language and terminology – Our education system is often highly exam-driven, which can create stress for students. By offering reassurance, guidance and motivation, teachers can help reduce feelings of anxiety.

    Talk openly – Encourage learners to discuss their feelings if they are struggling. They can do this with you, a classmate or a support worker at the school. If they open up to you, focus on strategies to combat negative feelings and emotions.

    Mindfulness techniques – Try adding five minutes at the start of the day for guided meditation or breathing exercises. This can help students begin the day in a calm and relaxed manner.

  • Teenage students looking at a phone together outside
    Six easy ways to learn English
    Por Steffanie Zazulak
    Reading time: 3 minutes

    Learning English can open doors to better career opportunities, travel experiences and global communication. However, staying motivated while learning a new language can sometimes be challenging. The good news is that there are many easy ways to learn English that fit into your daily routine.

    Whether you're a beginner or looking to improve your fluency, these practical English learning tips will help you build confidence and develop your speaking, listening, reading and vocabulary skills faster.

    1. Play word games to build your English vocabulary

    One of the most enjoyable ways to learn English is through word games. Games like Scrabble, Words With Friends, crossword puzzles and word search apps can help you expand your English vocabulary while having fun.

    Word games encourage you to think in English, recognize spelling patterns and learn new words naturally. If you're studying with friends or classmates, make it a regular activity to practice together and challenge each other's vocabulary skills.

    Benefits:

    • Improves vocabulary retention
    • Enhances spelling skills
    • Makes learning English enjoyable