The English language is one of the most important languages in the world. It is the language of global business and is spoken by millions of people around the globe. Yet, English can be one of the more difficult languages to learn. English is full of rules and exceptions to the rules that make its mastery challenging. However, as millions have proven, it can be done. And, with the help of a great school, you can do the same.
This article list nine difficulties for students learning the English language. It also lists one of the best solutions for learning English in today’s competitive job market.
9 Challenges that Vocational ESL Learners Face
What are the difficulties and challenges you will encounter in learning English? They include:
Challenge #1: Pronunciation
One of the biggest problems faced by English learners is pronunciation. This is because English is different than your native language. You must learn how to form the pronunciations in a proper way. This is not always easy to do. Sometimes, you must repeat the words several times before you can pronounce the words correctly. This involves adjusting the insides of your mouth to form the English pronunciation.
Challenge #2: Understanding English
It can be difficult to understand English spoken by a non-native English speaker. Nuanced English impedes understanding. When non-native speakers of English converse with one another, it is done so with an accent that makes learning more difficult. If one Vocational ESL student speaks to another with a heavy accent, understanding may be difficult. This is particularly harmful in global businesses. While an international citizen may speak English, it does not mean that their communication is clearly understood.
Challenge #3: Grammar
Many English learners find grammar complex and difficult. They recount the many hours in the classroom learning and reciting grammatical rules and vocabulary. Even Americans find grammar challenging, so, it’s no surprise that foreigners find the studies of American English difficult.
In the English language, there are multiple verb tenses. Those tenses are in the past, present and future: Simple, Continuous, Perfect, and Present Continuous. They can be baffling, particularly if you don’t have direct interpretations in your own language.
However, grammar is vital to the study of English. It is a set of rules that helps you speak correctly. It also helps you structure English correctly.
Challenge #4: Slang and Colloquialisms
Casual, informal language is the English of the people. Many words have been added to the English language and even used in formal settings. “You good?” is one example. When someone asks this question, they are not necessarily referring to a person’s state of being, but rather whether their situation is okay. The petitioner wants to know if they are in good standing.
Challenge #5: Idioms
Idioms and phrasal verbs are words and phrases that, when put together, mean something outside of the normal meaning. If you say you “put your foot in your mouth,” it doesn’t mean that you literally picked up your foot and pushed it into your mouth. The general meaning is that you said something that you should not have said.
Challenge #6: Practicing English
Lacking the ability to practice with someone can make learning English difficult. Many Vocational ESL learners say they don’t have anyone to practice with. This is particularly true if they are learning online and have no family members or friends who speak English.
Challenge #7: Sound Detection
The inability to detect sounds can make learning English difficult. It impacts your ability to pronounce words correctly. For example, some students have problems pronouncing words that begin with ‘v” and “w.” They don’t have these sounds in their native language so they will pronounce “vet” and wet” the same. Even when they learn to pronounce them properly, they are sometimes unable to hear the difference themselves. It takes practice to make the distinction between these two letters to detect the difference.
Challenge #8: Speech Pace
Americans speak too fast. Many students lament how they are unable to understand everything someone says because of the speed at which it was spoken. Asking the speaker to slow down would be the solution. However, many learners are afraid to speak up for fear that they will be thought of as ignorant.
Challenge #9: Accents
The “Other” Category. It is important to note that while a standard version of English exists in America, there are many versions within its borders which makes understanding difficult for immigrants. Some ethnicities have their own dialects such as the Gullah language spoken by the Geechee people. It is a type of English based in the Creole language. There is Pidgin English. And in south Texas, some residents speak “Spanglish,” which is a combination of both Spanish and English. And many ethnic groups speak English with their native accents. This can make speaking English difficult.
What is the Solution?
With disciplined study, conversation practice, reading, writing, and growing your vocabulary, English mastery is possible. Despite all the complexities of the English language, people all over the world are reading, writing, listening to podcasts, watching videos, and studying vocabulary to speak fluent English. While this is admirable, students don’t have to go on the journey alone.
How Do You Learn English as a Second Language?
A great way to learn English as a Second Language is by attending a Vocational ESL program. Vocational schools help international students attain English fluency. It gives them a fantastic opportunity to learn English and then move on to more advanced vocational skills that are in demand. Immigrants find these programs helpful.
A major reason for attending a Vocational ESL program is that you will get help from instructors and classmates. You will find it refreshing that Vocational ESL teachers are well-versed in linguistics and creative instruction. They make learning fun by creating an environment where genuine learning occurs in a way that is nurturing for the students. They know that their classrooms must not only be filled with information but taught in a way that is vibrant and engaging.
Your classroom will also have people just like you that have the same goals in mind. You will have plenty of time to communicate with fellow students and practice the English learned in a Vocational ESL program.
Final Thoughts
The Vocational ESL program has helped many students achieve success in their careers. It can also help you too. So, it is time to learn more about Interactive College of Technology. When you decide to enroll in a Vocational ESL program, you will gain a lot. Take the first step and call us today. A bright future awaits.
Want to Learn More?
Our Vocational English as a Second Language (ESL) training program is designed for student success. Interactive College of Technology offers live online and in-person English classes that fit into your busy schedule.
Our Vocational ESL classes are set up, so your English develops skill by skill. Four levels of rigorous courses help you to comprehend the English language by combining lecture, lab, class discussion, and group activities. This effective method ensures Vocational ESL students are provided English language skills as well as cultural transference.
You receive all Vocational ESL program materials to keep. You’ll also be provided with a personal email account, resume writing, and job placement assistance, media center access, and more! Our campuses are located across Georgia and Texas.
Let’s learn English together! Contact us now to learn more.
