An increasing number of people are taking up IELTS Classes in Singapore in the hopes of advancing in their careers or getting admitted into an English university. However, while taking up such classes can indeed elevate your English language skills, it’s also important to supplement your learning with out-of-classroom practice. This would count towards informal settings – which prove to be an actual test of whether you’ve mastered the language.

Undoubtedly, one of the best informal language practices is to converse with a native English speaker. So read on below to find out why it’s good to practise with a native speaker and how this informal exercise easily speeds up your learning process!

Why you should seek advice from a native speaker

Improve your language use

Classroom instruction usually focuses more on the formal aspect of the language. To learn more about the vernacular or common speech patterns, you would have to pick them up from a native English speaker. These are the small details that might be overlooked by non-native speakers, including but not limited to, correct pronunciation, proper pauses, as well as intonation.

Although learning the language in a typical English course in Singapore familiarises you with the basics, it’s helpful to also check with your English teacher on the application of the language or have a native speaker give a second eye to your language use.

Exposure to the culture of a native speaker

As a language is tied to a culture, what better way to learn a language than by immersing in the culture at the same time? So take this chance to ask your (native speaker) friend the meaning which specific phrases hold in his culture. In this way, you would kill two birds with one stone: deepen your understanding of the phrase as well as practise the use of it!

Also, because when you have just started picking up the language, your knowledge is picked up more passively, in the form of reading and listening to others. But, when you can strike day-to-day conversations with a native speaker, you are more engaged and active in the learning process.

Tips for communicating with a native English speaker

While there are many benefits to speaking with a native speaker, it’s not exactly the easiest thing to do. You might be afraid of not being able to put across your ideas well or be at a loss while trying to sustain a conversation. Here are some tips to help you communicate comfortably and master the language at the same time.

1. Keep your head up

As one of the top five most used languages in the world, it is natural to see slightly inferior to native speakers who have mastered the language from an early age. But remember that you are still learning! Perceive thoughts from these native speakers as advice and not forms of judgements: don’t be discouraged if it’s difficult for you to match up to their speaking standards. And it’s highly likely that these native speakers understand that English is not your first language.

2. Be honest and ask questions

Although most native speaker-friends would be very supportive, doing so will make them even more eager to assist you with learning English. Let them know if you do not understand specific phrases they use – sometimes native speakers are too comfortable with English that they also forget some language rules can be tricky. So ask them more questions and see their help humbly for you in the learning process.

3. Supplement with body language

Understandably, you might get nervous while scratching your head for the right English words to say. But who says you can only speak with your mouth? If it helps you convey your message or ask questions, use your body language to supplement what you wish to tell the other person. Body language strengthens any language, and even English leverages on body language for better expressions!

Conclusion

Immersing yourself in the English language is best done by speaking to a native English speaker. Here at English Explorer, we see the value in attaining guidance from native speakers. As such, be assured of learning from our passionate team of native speakers, highly qualified teachers that are here to journey with you towards English proficiency! Whether you’re seeking to take the IELTS test or simply pick up conversational English, check our extensive range of English courses to suit your language needs.