What is your language learning style?
What is your language learning style, and how can you use it to learn English? Just like there are many different types of people in the world, there are also different types of language learners. Knowing yours can help you learn English more efficiently. You will probably find that a combination of the below applies to you, and that’s great! It means you have even more tools available to you...
How learning culture helps you learn a new language
If you know much about LAL School, you know that we put a massive focus on our students experiencing the culture of Cape Town and spending time with native English speakers. This not only ensures you have an amazing learning vacation, but also helps you learn to speak English faster and more effectively. Being able to speak a language and actually communicating in that language can be very...
How to take notes for English lessons more effectively
Studies have shown that taking notes during a lesson is more effective than making notes later out of a textbook, or using ready-printed notes. They also show that you will have a better memory and understanding of what you’ve learned if you write your notes by hand, instead of typing them. If you don’t see yourself as much of a note-taker, hopefully these facts as well as how fun and...
Am I fluent in English? Plus extra tips to reach full fluency faster
You’re on your language-learning journey, and your goal is to become fluent in English. How will you know when you’ve reached this goal? Fluency encompasses a variety of language skills that you need to master. If you’re asking yourself, ‘Am I fluent in English?’ use these benchmarks to find out. 1. You know what it means to be fluent Becoming fluent in a new language is extremely difficult,...
The best English books for new English speakers
One of the goals for people learning to speak a new language is to be able to read in that language. Once you get there, you know that your grammar will improve massively and your vocabulary will grow rapidly. But with so many options to choose from and not much information about the language styles of these options, finding something good to read can feel impossible. We are here to give you a...
8 small ways to learn a new language faster
If you are on the incredible (but challenging) journey of learning a new language, you probably already know how long it can take to make progress in certain areas. Luckily, there are well-researched techniques you can use to speed up your learning and make the most of time with LAL here in Cape Town. Here are 8 small ways to learn a new language faster. Set short and tangible goals Instead...
How to improve your pronunciation when learning English
Learning to speak a new language goes beyond memorising vocabulary lists and getting familiar with different grammar systems. You also need to be able to communicate and make yourself understood. This is where pronunciation plays a massive role. If you want to know how to improve your pronunciation when learning English, you’re in the right place! 1. Listen to English speaking Babies learn to...
Bullet journaling techniques to improve your English
The best way to learn a new language is to use it regularly in a real life setting outside of the classroom. But real life doesn’t always – or can’t always – take the form of chatting to locals and ordering local food at restaurants. Learning English also comes with being able to read, write and comprehend the language. Keeping a bullet journal has so many wellness benefits, and...
Language-learning plateaus and how to get over them
If you feel like you’ve stopped making visible progress in learning a new language, you’re not alone! In fact, this is so common, there’s a name for it; it’s called the plateau effect or the learning plateau. Let’s dive into why language-learning plateaus happen, and discuss key strategies to getting over the hump. Why do plateaus happen when learning a new language? Experts believe that...