My Experience in Learning English as a Second Language
For me, learning a language is a complicated process. It is different from learning other subjects. It involves a lot of practice and follow-up. When I talk about my personal experience, I would say that I have a rich experience in learning English as a second language. English was taught to me for ten years starting from grade seven until graduation from university. After graduation, I felt that I should improve my language skills. Therefore, I made a lot of efforts personally to increase my fluency. Until now, I still learn the language. Indeed, learning a language takes a lifetime.
I started learning English as a second language when I was in first intermediate. I still remember my first classes and my first teachers. I remember that my teachers changed frequently in the first year, but all of them had much in common. All of them used the grammar translation method. They used to write bilingual lists of words on the board, then we, as students, were asked to copy these lists and memorize them by heart. All teaching concentrated on reading and writing skills, but there were no activities concentrating on speaking or listening. In addition, grammar rules were taught at that stage of learning the language like mathematics equations, and we were asked to memorize the rules as we would memorize formulas.
As time went on, I had the opportunity to experience different teaching methods. I joined conversation clubs and took part in language exchange programs, which allowed me to practice speaking with native speakers. These experiences were eye-opening and helped me understand the practical application of the language. I began to appreciate the nuances of English, such as tone and intonation, which are crucial for effective communication. I also discovered various resources, including podcasts, movies, and books, that made learning enjoyable and engaging.
Of course, there are certain defects or gaps in my knowledge or ability to use the English language, like using idioms and the appropriateness of some vocabulary. Idioms have many connotations and denotations in the English language. Sometimes I use an idiom and mean something specific, but the connotations of the idiom mean something else entirely. Another gap in my knowledge of the language is the appropriateness of using certain vocabulary. The English language entails a high sense of using the appropriate word for describing or narrating something. To my mind, I have not reached this point yet.
Despite these challenges, I remain committed to improving my English skills. I seek feedback from teachers and peers, which helps me identify areas for improvement. I also set specific goals for myself, such as expanding my vocabulary or enhancing my listening comprehension. This structured approach keeps me motivated and focused on my learning journey.
Learning English has not only been about mastering a language for me; it has been a window into understanding a new culture and connecting with diverse people. As I continue on this path, I am excited to see how my language skills evolve and open new opportunities for personal and professional growth.