Learning a language is not a simple task. Many students can spend years studying a language and still have trouble conversing with a native speaker.

There are many different ways to learn a language. Although it is important to study the grammar of a language, often this theoretical knowledge does not always transfer to real life as easily as we would like. This is why one of the best ways to learn a language is sometimes to step away from the exercise books and do something completely different.

Find a new way to learn a language and not only does this keep the brain actively thinking in fresh ways it also keeps study interesting. This maintains student motivation – one of the most important aspects of language learning. 

Step outside your comfort zone 

Learning a language with real life interaction is vital if you are going to survive by using the language rather than simply passing exams with it.

You should aim to step outside your comfort zone and push yourself to try out your language skills away from isolated study. Changing the context of learning can make all the difference, so that grammar and the ‘dry’ parts of language are still learned, but in a new way.

Try to socialise in your target language, have conversations about things that force you to use new vocabulary. Talk about events and ideas that you have never talked about before in your new language.

Interacting with native speakers and throwing yourself out of your comfort zone is vital if you are going to improve and sometimes moving away from structured study can be one of the best ways to learn a language.

Play games to practise English

Physicality in learning can also be a way of memorising words more effectively, so playing games with the language is a great way to get new words to stick.

Another important task of finding new ways to learn a language is finding a native speaker to practise the target language with.

Games be learning languages can be anything from word play, bingo, anagrams and crosswords to board games or jokes – anything that uses English in a fun and interactive way.

Use the seasonal events

Throughout the year there are many seasonal events which can introduce you to new vocabulary.

From Christmas and Easter celebrations to sporting events, festivals, local holidays, charity events, political events and special national days and international celebrations.

All of these occasions give you the chance to learn about the cultural significance of the event and explore new vocabulary.

Immersion as a new way to learn a language

Immersion is another option when finding new ways to learn a language, however, this is difficult to do if you are not living in a country where the target language is routinely spoken.

Immersion can also be a lonely experience, as it requires the learner to avoid contact with their native language and focus only on the target language. This is a fast and targeted, but difficult and highly challenging way to learn a language.

Use the media for language practice

It isn’t only those real life interactions that can help your brain re-wire in its new language. TV shows using your target language can also be useful, as can radio. Listening to sport commentary is also a fun way of practising your listening skills in a new way.

As long as you are listening actively to the language you will benefit from being surrounded by it – just make sure it really is active listening though and not just background noise!

Think outside the box to really motivate and challenge yourself. Remind yourself why you are learning English in the first place. This will keep you on the right track and refresh your motivation.

New ways to learn a language

Once you find a new way to learn a language you will open your brain up to the new words, phrases and grammar in a fresh way, with a new context. This is often exactly what it takes to reach that next level of competency in a foreign language.

So, if you do find a new way of learning a language that is exciting and challenging and keeps you motivated, you might just stumble on a way to fast-track your way to fluency.

Share your thoughts

Have you found a new way to learn a language? Which way works best for you?

Share your ideas in the comments!