Engleski A - 2024. jesen, reading 1.

A Alan

For the vast majority of people in my class, one of the most common barriers to conversing in a new language is the fear of a teacher's reaction. Being a communicative type of learner, I ignore the pattern and the structure of a language, but I will use it regardless of the risk of using some awkward or incorrect word. Once, I needed to replace a broken item in a store in Spain. I had to use Spanish instead of my native English, although my speaking skills were at an elementary level at that time. As usual, I thanked the shop assistant for correcting my pronunciation.

B Ben

At the very beginning, my friend advised me to pick out 50 French words and commit them to memory in various contexts. I have also compiled a script of useful phrases I have picked up while doing the shopping or reading notices in public places. Then, in the city where I am currently living there is a regular language-immersion meet-up group with a tutor, which joins people practising the language together in a carefree way, etc. This has given me the opportunity to absorb it as often as possible in many ways. I am aware that in order to master it, I will have to focus on structures and tenses in the future.

C Celine

My teachers proposed reading comics while commuting since they use fairly simple language and my brain can easily memorise new language structures via the pictures. Now, I have moved on to adapted readers and if I don't understand a word, I can always consult the dictionary. I was advised to write the translation on the page margin. Although the first pages are fully packed, I can say I understand more with each chapter and need to look up fewer words. I also highlight the structures I think might be useful later.

D David

The written test I took the other day says I am B2 in Italian. Still, I am reluctant to engage in any sort of verbal exchange with native speakers. The other day I met an Italian colleague on the bus and he struck up a conversation. I could barely utter yes and no! All my instructors had one thing in common: they would teach us vocabulary and write endless bilingual lists of words on the board and we would have to copy them and learn by heart. Recalling a word in a real-life context is still a tough challenge.

E Eve

For me, learning a language has always been about focusing on the experiences that the new language would open up. I am a keen traveller and have volunteered in different parts of the world. This has given me the opportunity to pick up some basics in several languages. Also, my pronunciation has improved a lot with singing. I listen to the song and try to sing along and memorise the text. This has helped me to master idioms and grammar, and memorise the subtle differences in the meaning and pronunciation of words.

F Fiona

Native speakers consider me a gifted genius. If you ask me, talent is nothing without consistent hard work and expert teachers. An online language course tutor has suggested that I record myself for two to four minutes without stopping. I will describe the world around me, or give my opinion on a particular topic. Next, I will listen to the recording of my speech and notice which words I use. If I have used only familiar words, I will search for synonymous words to replace them. Afterwards, making a new recording and listening to it will prove whether I have made any progress.