Are you looking to take your English to the next level?
You've already mastered the basics, but now it's time to truly immerse yourself in the language.
And guess what?
The best way to do that is by doing something you probably already love: listening and watching!
Learning English isn't just about memorising vocabulary lists. It's about understanding how native speakers really talk – their speed, their tone of voice, and those natural expressions and "chunks" of language that make conversations flow.
That's where listening and watching come in!
Dive into the World of Streaming!
Here in Italy, we have access to so many amazing streaming platforms that are perfect for English learners. Think about it: Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV+, Amazon Prime Video, and Paramount+ are packed with content!
TV Series & Movies: Whether you prefer drama, comedy, action, or documentaries, there's something for everyone. Start with something that interests you. Love a good mystery? Try a detective series. Want a laugh? A sitcom is perfect! Don't worry if you don't understand every single word at first. The more you watch, the more you'll pick up. You can even start with subtitles in your native language, then switch to English subtitles, and finally try watching without any subtitles at all!
Here's a tip: Choose shows or movies you've already seen in your native language. That way, you're familiar with the story and can focus more on the language.
Listen Up! Audio for English Learners
Sometimes, you just want to listen! This is where platforms like Spotify and Audible become invaluable.
Spotify: Beyond music, Spotify offers a huge variety of podcasts on every topic imaginable. Find podcasts made for English learners, or dive into podcasts by native speakers on subjects that truly interest you. Love cooking? Find a cooking podcast! Interested in history? There are countless options.
Audible: This is a game-changer for many learners! With Audible, you can listen to audiobooks. The amazing thing is that if you have a Kindle, you can often listen and read at the same time! This dual approach is incredibly effective. You can highlight words you don't know, look up definitions instantly, and hear how they're pronounced all at once. Plus, you can pause whenever you need to reflect or repeat a phrase.
Listening can really help with fluency! Check how fluent you are…
YouTube: Your Window to Real English
YouTube is a treasure trove for English learners because it's full of "real" people speaking English. Unlike actors who are following a script, many YouTubers are just talking naturally to their camera, sharing their passions and experiences.
Follow Your Passions: This is key! If you're a girl interested in fashion and makeup, search for English-speaking beauty gurus. You'll learn all the specific vocabulary related to those topics, from "foundation" to "smokey eye," while hearing natural conversation. Are you into health and fitness? Find channels about bodybuilding or healthy eating. Love to cook? Follow English-speaking chefs! By connecting your learning to your hobbies, you'll stay motivated and absorb the language effortlessly. You'll learn the language and get new ideas for your hobbies!
By regularly integrating these listening and watching activities into your routine, you'll be amazed at how quickly your comprehension, vocabulary, and even your speaking confidence will improve.
So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring!