In this article we go over the 4 main language learning skills to develop: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

Monica Arellano       Updated 03.06.2023

Table of Contents

• 1. Listening
• 2. Speaking
• 3. Reading
• 4. Writing

A long time ago learning a foreign language was just a requisite for getting graduated from high school. In the present time, because of the globalization, speaking a second language, for example, English, has become one of the most important studies to improve people’s curriculums, jobs or even their lives when moving out is necessary. For many years, different investigators have been looking for the best way to make the learning process easy to accomplish. A lot of theories, learning and teaching strategies have been analyzed for teachers in face-to-face or online classrooms to help language learners.

According to my personal experience -10 years teaching at different levels, using different methodologies and strategies- I believe the 4 main language skills should be taught in the following order:

1. Listening

The very first thing you did when you were a kid to learn your native language was just listening to what everybody says! Although, you have to practice, practice and practice to develop your listening skills. It is not enough to have a class with your teacher you must try to watch movies or listen to music in your free time always being aware that the material you choose is appropriate to your level. You could also use subtitles to learn new words. Nowadays, technology offers various kinds of applications or web pages you can use, try to be sure they are from a good source like recommended material from your teacher.

2. Speaking

The second step you did as a kid, you imitated the sounds you heard before. Just try to speak the words!. The key to making progress for speaking is to talk. Talk to other students and to native speakers to understand the cadence and rhythm of the language. You have to be confident in yourself and try to talk as much as you can, it doesn’t matter if you make mistakes actually, you can learn from them. The idea is to push yourself to do it, even if you practice in front of the mirror at first or recording yourself with the cellphone. Another effective strategy is to read out loud to practice pronunciation. Besides, it is very helpful to set up small goals every day such as learning a new expression, idiom or word.

3. Reading

The third thing you did at school, you repeated the vowels and letters. Just follow the letters to make sense! There are some steps you can follow to read more efficiently. First of all, you have to start reading from the title to know what is the reading about. Then, scan the text -reading strategy which means to do a fast reading- to have a general idea about the content. A silent reading it is also recommended to internalize the pronunciation of every word following the pauses according to punctuation. However, at this point, you should take notes about the words you don’t understand to find them in the dictionary. Sometimes, students don’t like to use the dictionary, but it is beneficial in it you can check not just the meaning of the words but the sounds through the phonetic symbols as well as knowing if the word is a verb, an adjective, a noun, among others.

4. Writing

The fourth step we did to learn at school finally, we wrote the words. Just combine everything you have learned and write! However, before writing you have to think about the possible topics to organize your ideas. This skill is in the last spot not because it is less critical, indeed it is a challenge to learn how to write correctly. The first aspect you should consider is to remember the 3 main parts of the texts: introduction, body and conclusion as well as reviewing punctuation which is going to help you with cohesion -how to use punctuation- in your text. On the other hand, at the moment you want to write is better to start with sentences, then small paragraphs and full text, always supporting your grammar and vocabulary with a dictionary.

In conclusion, the learning process is different for all students. You should also revise what your learning style such as visual learner, auditory learner, kinesthetic learner, or tactile learner is -you can find plenty of different learning styles tests online-. Once you know your learning style, it could be easier for you to find materials that match with it.

Taking into account all these strategies you could have a more meaningful lifelong language learning; remember you will never stop learning. Another essential thing to consider is how interested you are in the language you want to learn. This may be the reason why you haven’t learned as much as you need. Motivation is the key for having a successful learning process, analyze deeply why you have to improve the language, how important it is for you and what you can accomplish once you master communication in the target language.

Here are ten reasons to learn English – or any language really. We’ve chosen these ten reasons as they express a wide range of not only learning goals, but also personal goals.

1.   Learning English Is Fun

We should rephrase this: learning English can be fun. For many students, it isn’t much fun.

However, we think that’s just a problem of how you learn English. Take time to have fun learning English by listening to music, watching a movie, challenging yourself to games in English. There are so many opportunities to learn English while having fun. There’s no excuse not to enjoy yourself, even if you have to learn grammar.

2.   English Will Help You Succeed in Your Career

This is obvious to anyone who lives in our modern world. Employers want employees who speak

English. This might not be fair, but it is the reality. Learning English to take a test such as the IELTS or TOEIC will give you a qualification that others might not have, and that might help you get the job you need.

3.   English Opens Up International Communications

You are on the internet learning English right now. We all know the world needs more love and understanding. What better way to improve the world than to communicate in English (or other languages) with those from other cultures?!

4.   Learning English Will Help Open Your Mind

We believe that we are all brought up to see the world in one way. That’s a good thing, but at a certain point, we need to expand our horizons. Learning English will help you understand the world through a different language. Understanding the world through a different language will also help you view the world from a different perspective. In other words, learning English helps to open your mind.

5.   Learning English Will Help Your Family

Being able to communicate in English can help you reach out and discover new information. This new information could help save the life of someone in your family. Well, it certainly can help you help the other people in your family who don’t speak English. Just imagine yourself on a trip and you are responsible for communicating with others in English. Your family will be very proud.

6.   Learning English Will Keep Alzheimer’s Away

Scientific research says that using your mind to learn something helps keep your memory intact. Alzheimer’s – and other diseases dealing with brain functions – isn’t nearly as powerful if you’ve kept your brain flexible by learning English.

7.          English Will Help You Understand Those Crazy Americans and Brits

Yes, American and British cultures are rather strange at times. Speaking English will certainly give you insight into why these cultures are so crazy! Just think, you will understand English cultures, but they probably won’t understand yours because they don’t speak the language.

That’s a real advantage in so many ways.

8.          Learning English Will Help You Improve Your Sense of Time

English is obsessed with verb tenses. In fact, there are twelve tenses in English. We’ve noticed that this is not the case in many other languages. You can be sure that by learning English you will gain a keen sense of when something happens due to the English language’s use of time expressions.

9.          Learning English Will Allow You to Communicate in Any Situation

Chances are that someone will speak English no matter where you are. Just imagine you are on a deserted island with people from all over the world. Which language will you speak? Probably English!

10.   English Is the World Language

OK, OK, this is an obvious point we’ve already made. More people speak Chinese, more nations have Spanish as their mother tongue, but, realistically. English is the language of choice throughout the world today.

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• American English is the most widely spoken variety of English in the world.
• American English is the language of the United States of America, the world’s largest economy and superpower.
• American English is the language of Hollywood, Broadway, and Disney, the world’s leading entertainment industries.
• American English is the language of Silicon Valley, NASA, and Google, the world’s leading innovation hubs.
• American English is the language of Harvard, Yale, and Stanford, the world’s top-ranked universities.
• American English is the language of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights, the world’s most influential documents of democracy and human rights.
• American English is the language of jazz, blues, rock, and hip hop, the world’s most popular musical genres.
• American English is the language of diversity, multiculturalism, and freedom, the world’s most cherished values.
• American English is the language of humor, slang, and idioms, the world’s most fun and expressive ways of communication.
• American English is the language of you, your goals, and your dreams.
• The web page also has a button that says “Enroll Now” and a footer with some links and information about the online learning platform.
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Please, thank you, and you’re welcome are perhaps the most common phrases in English. Use please to politely ask for something, thank you or thanks when someone does something for you or gives you something. Finally, use you’re welcome as a polite response when something thanks you for something. Learn the rules and alternate forms of these three important phrases in English.

Please for Requests

Please is used in order to make requests more polite. It is added to the end of polite questions and is preceded by a comma.

Polite Question + , + please + ?

Could you give me a hand, please?

May I use your telephone, please?

Can I join your table, please?

Please can also be placed before the verb when asking a polite question:

Would you please help me with this?

Could you please explain the grammar again?

Please for Confirming Help

Please is also used to confirm an offer of help using the phrase yes, please.

Would you like to come with us? – Yes, please.

May I help you? – Yes, please. I’d like to know more about this month’s sale.

Giving Directions and Please

Generally, please is not used when giving directions or instructions, especially if there are a number of instructions to follow. For example, a teacher might give the following instructions to a class:

1. Open your book to page 40.
2. Read the introduction.
3. Do the introductory exercises.
4. Read the passage.
5. Take the multiple choice follow-up quiz.

Please can be used when giving instructions to make the order more polite. This is usually done when only one order (or instruction) is given and is used only in spoken English.

Please sit down.

Pay attention, please.

Please fill in this form.

Notice that please is placed at the beginning or end of the instruction.

Thank You

Thank you is used when a compliment is given:

You’re a fantastic tennis player! – Thank you.

I really enjoyed dinner. It was very tasty. – Thank you, I’m glad you like it.

Thank You to Accept and Refuse Offers

Thank you is often used at the beginning of a reply to an offer. It can be used in both the positive and the negative form to either accept or refuse an offer.

Would you like something to drink? – Thank you. I’d like a cola, please.

Do you want to join us at the concert tonight? – No thank you. I need to study!

Thanks

Thanks is also used in the same manner as thank you in informal situations.

You’re Welcome

The phrase you’re welcome is the most common response when someone thanks you for something. You’re welcome is a phrase that comes from the German word willkommen. However, as you can read below, the use is very different than in German.

Other phrases for saying you’re welcome include:

Formal

Don’t mention it.

Not at all.

My pleasure.

I’m glad to have been of help.

Informal

No problem.

Sure.

Certainly.

When to NOT use Please

Please is not used as a response to thank you.

WRONG

Thank you. – Please.

RIGHT

Thank you. – You’re welcome.

Thank you. – No problem.

Thank you. – Not at all.

The Use of Please and Thank You Compared to Other Languages

The use of please and thank you in English is very important. Please and thank you have their equivalents in other languages, but the usage of please and thank you in English is not always the same. Let’s take two examples one from German and one from Italian in which a translation of please is used in Italian or German, but not in English.

Italian “Please” – Prego

Posso sedermi? – Prego

Literal English translation:

Can I sit down me? – Please

Proper English translation:

Can I sit down? – Certainly

German “Please” – Bitte

Vielen Dank! – Bitte schoen!

Literal English translation:

Many thanks! – Please pretty!

Common English translation:

Many thanks! – You’re welcome!

Please, Thank You, You’re Welcome Quiz

Fill in the gap with please, thank you, or you’re welcome depending on the situation.

1. Could you _____ help me with my homework?
2. Would you like to have dinner early today? Yes, _____.
3. Thank you for your advice. – _____. I’m glad you found it helpful.
4. Would you like something to drink? _____. I’m not thirsty.
5. Another way to say _____ is my pleasure.
6. _____ sit down and begin the lesson.
7. Could I sit down next to you? Certainly. – _____.
8. May I use your restroom, _____?
9. _____ to use my study if you would like.
10. _____ for your help on the test. I got an A!

Answers

1. please
2. please
3. You’re welcome
4. Thank you
5. you’re welcome
6. Please
7. Thank you
8. please
9. You’re welcome
10. Thank you

About English Functions

The use of please and thank you are known as functions. Learning correct language functions will help you understand and use the correct phrases and grammar in specific situations.

There are many ways to ask questions in English. It’s important to understand the situation when deciding how to ask questions. In other words, is the question you want to ask a polite request? Would you like to confirm the information you already know? Are you gathering details about a subject?

How to Ask Direct Questions

Direct questions are the most common type of question in English. Direct questions are asked when asking for both simple and complex information. To begin with, here is a guide to the structure of direct questions:

(Question Word) + Auxiliary + Subject + Verb Form + (objects) + ?

Examples:

When do you get to work?

Do you like fish?

How long have you been working on this project?

Where are those ties manufactured?

How to Ask Yes/No Questions

Yes/No questions refer to simple questions you ask to receive either a yes or no as a response.

Yes/No questions do not use question words and always begin with the auxiliary verb.

Auxiliary + Subject + Verb Form + (objects) + ?

Examples:

Does he live in New York?

Have you seen that film?

Is she going to come to the party?

How to Ask Subject and Object Questions

Look at the following example sentence and questions:

Jason likes playing golf.

What does Jason like playing? (Answer: golf)

Who likes playing golf? (Answer: Jason)

In the first question, we are asking about the object. When asking about the object, use direct question construction beginning with a question word followed by the auxiliary verb.

Wh? + auxiliary + subject + verb?

Who does he follow online?

In the second question, we are asking for the subject of the action. When asking subject questions, do not use the auxiliary verb. The ‘Wh’ question word plays the role of the subject in the question.

Wh? + (auxiliary) + verb + object?

Who understands this problem?

Note: Remember that the present simple or past simple do not take the auxiliary in positive sentence structure.

Examples:

Who enjoys playing tennis?

Who is coming to the party next week?

Common question forms for subject questions:

Which

Which bicycle goes fast?

What kind of

What kind of cheese tastes mild?

What sort of

What sort of tea costs very little?

Who

Who goes to school here?

How to Use Question Tags to Ask Questions

Another type of common question in English is the question tag. Many languages such as Spanish also use question tags. Use them to confirm information that you already know, or think you know. This form is used in conversation and when checking that you have understood something.

Construct a question tag by making a statement followed by a comma and the opposite (positive > negative, negative > positive) form of the appropriate auxiliary verb.

Examples:

You’re married, aren’t you?

He’s been here before, hasn’t he?

You didn’t buy the new car, did you?

Indirect Questions

When we want to be more polite we often use indirect question forms. They ask the same as direct questions but are considered more formal. When using an indirect question, use an introductory phrase followed by the question itself in positive sentence structure. Connect the two phrases with the question word or ‘if’ in the case the question is a yes/no question.

Construction Chart

Introductory phrase + question word (or if) + positive sentence Examples:

I was wondering if you know the way to the nearest bank.

Do you know whenthe next train leaves?

Here are some of the most common phrases used for asking indirect questions.

Do you know…

I wonder/was wondering…

Can you tell me…

I’m not sure…

I don’t know…

Examples:

Do you know when the next train leaves?

I wonder when he will arrive.

Can you tell me where he lives?

I’m not sure what he wants to do.

I don’t know if he is coming.

The time required to gain competency in English as a Second Language (ESL) can vary depending on several factors, including the individual’s prior language learning experience, their dedication and motivation, the intensity of study, and the opportunities for language practice. Additionally, the various levels of ESL can be defined differently by different educational systems or language proficiency frameworks. However, I can provide you with a general estimate based on common frameworks such as the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) or the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) proficiency levels. Please note that these are approximate timeframes and individual progress may vary.

1. Beginner Level (A1 – A2): For learners starting from scratch, it typically takes around 6-12 months of regular study and practice to reach the beginner level. At this stage, learners can understand and use basic vocabulary, phrases, and sentence structures to communicate simple information and engage in everyday conversations.
2. Intermediate Level (B1 – B2): To progress from the beginner level to the intermediate level, it generally takes about 1-3 years of consistent effort. At this stage, learners can handle more complex language tasks, express opinions, participate in discussions, and comprehend a wider range of topics. They have a good grasp of grammar and vocabulary but may still make occasional errors.
3. Advanced Level (C1): Reaching the advanced level typically takes around 3-5 years or more of focused study and immersion in an English-speaking environment. At this level, learners have a high level of proficiency and can express themselves fluently and spontaneously on a wide range of topics. They can understand complex texts, engage in academic or professional discussions, and use English effectively in various contexts.
4. Proficient Level (C2): The proficient level is the highest level of English proficiency, where learners have near-native or native-like fluency. Achieving this level can take several years of dedicated study, practice, and immersion in English-speaking environments. At this stage, learners have a deep understanding of the language and can communicate effortlessly in any situation.

Remember that these timeframes are approximate and can vary significantly depending on individual factors. It’s important to establish realistic goals, find effective learning methods, and maintain consistent practice to progress through the different levels of ESL.

How long does it usually take to gain competency at the various levels of ESL?

The time it takes to gain competency at the various levels of English as a Second Language (ESL) can vary depending on several factors, including the learner’s previous language experience, exposure to the English language, learning methods, dedication, and the level of proficiency they want to achieve. However, here is a general overview of the time it may take to reach different levels of ESL proficiency:

1. Beginner Level (A1): This level typically involves basic vocabulary, simple sentence structures, and fundamental communication skills. It may take approximately 3-6 months of regular study and practice to reach this level.
2. Elementary Level (A2): At this level, learners can handle more routine situations and engage in basic conversations. It usually takes around 6-12 months to progress from the beginner level to the elementary level.
3. Pre-Intermediate Level (B1): Learners at this level can communicate in everyday situations, express opinions, and understand simple texts. It may take about 1-2 years to reach this level, depending on the learner’s language background and effort.
4. Intermediate Level (B2): This level indicates a good command of English, with the ability to handle a wide range of topics and express ideas fluently. Achieving an intermediate level of ESL proficiency can take around 2-3 years of consistent learning and practice.
5. Upper-Intermediate Level (C1): At this level, learners can understand complex texts, engage in discussions, and express themselves effectively. It may take approximately 3-4 years to reach an upper-intermediate level of ESL proficiency.
6. Advanced Level (C2): The advanced level represents near-native proficiency, where learners can understand and produce complex, nuanced language across various contexts. Gaining this level of ESL competency may take several years of dedicated study, immersion, and practice.

It’s important to note that these timeframes are estimates, and individual progress can vary significantly. The intensity and duration of study, language exposure, and the learner’s motivation and learning strategies all play significant roles in achieving ESL competency. Additionally, regular practice, immersion, and using English in real-life situations can greatly expedite the learning process.

Improving study habits is essential for ESL students to maximize their learning of English. Here are 10 effective ways for ESL students to enhance their study habits:

1. Set Clear Goals: Clearly define your language learning goals. Whether it’s improving speaking fluency, expanding vocabulary, or enhancing listening skills, having specific objectives will help you stay focused and motivated.
2. Create a Study Schedule: Establish a regular study routine that fits your schedule and commit to it. Consistency is key for language learning. Allocate dedicated time for studying English, and make it a priority in your daily or weekly schedule.
3. Use a Variety of Learning Resources: Explore a range of learning materials and resources to keep your studies engaging and diverse. Combine textbooks, online courses, podcasts, videos, language apps, and authentic materials like books, articles, and movies. Mixing different resources will provide exposure to various aspects of the language and keep your learning dynamic.
4. Practice Regularly: Actively engage with the language by practicing regularly. Set aside time for all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Practice speaking with native speakers or language partners, listen to podcasts or audio recordings, read books or articles, and write regularly to reinforce what you’ve learned.
5. Use Effective Study Techniques: Experiment with different study techniques to find what works best for you. Some techniques include flashcards for vocabulary review, summarizing texts or videos, taking notes while listening, using mnemonic devices, and creating mind maps to organize information. Find methods that help you retain and recall information effectively.
6. Review and Repeat: Regularly review previously learned material to reinforce your knowledge. Language learning requires repetition to solidify concepts and vocabulary. Reviewing old lessons and practicing previously learned grammar or vocabulary will help you retain what you’ve studied.
7. Seek Feedback: Actively seek feedback on your language skills from teachers, language exchange partners, or native speakers. Feedback helps you identify areas for improvement and guides your learning. Take note of the feedback you receive and work on specific areas to enhance your language proficiency.
8. Immerse Yourself in English: Surround yourself with English as much as possible. Watch movies or TV shows in English, listen to English music or podcasts, read books or news articles, and try to think or speak in English as often as you can. Immersion aids in developing an intuitive understanding of the language.
9. Join Language Communities: Engage with language learning communities, both online and offline. Participate in language exchange programs, attend language meetups or conversation groups, and connect with fellow learners. Interacting with others who share your passion for learning English can provide valuable support and motivation.
10. Take Breaks and Relax: Learning a language can be intense, so it’s important to take breaks and relax to avoid burnout. Give yourself time to recharge, pursue other hobbies, and enjoy leisure activities. A rested mind is more receptive to learning.

Remember, everyone learns differently, so it’s important to find the study habits and techniques that work best for you. Adapt and adjust your study habits as you progress in your language learning journey.

The 600 nouns in this list are part of Charles K. Ogden‘s compilation of 850 words, which he released in 1930 with the book “Basic English: A General Introduction with Rules and Grammar.” This list is an excellent starting point for building up vocabulary to converse fluently in English.

While this list is helpful for a strong beginning, more advanced vocabulary building will help you improve your English.

400 General Nouns

1. account
2. act
3. adjustment
4. advertisement
5. agreement
6. air
7. amount
8. amusement
9. animal
10. answer
11. apparatus
12. approval
13. argument
14. art
15. attack
16. attempt
17. attention
18. attraction
19. authority
20. back
21. balance
22. base
23. behavior
24. belief
25. birth
26. bit
27. bite
28. blood
29. blow
30. body
31. brass
32. bread
33. breath
34. brother
35. building
36. burn
37. burst
38. business
39. butter
40. canvas
41. care
42. cause
43. chalk
44. chance
45. change
46. cloth
47. coal
48. color
49. comfort
50. committee
51. company
52. comparison
53. competition
54. condition
55. connection
56. control
57. cook
58. copper
59. copy
60. cork
61. copy
62. cough
63. country
64. cover
65. crack
66. credit
67. crime
68. crush
69. cry
70. current
71. curve
72. damage
73. danger
74. daughter
75. day
76. death
77. debt
78. decision
79. degree
80. design
81. desire
82. destruction
83. detail
84. development
85. digestion
86. direction
87. discovery
88. discussion
89. disease
90. disgust
91. distance
92. distribution
93. division
94. doubt
95. drink
96. driving
97. dust
98. earth
99. edge
100. education
101. effect
102. end
103. error
104. event
105. example
106. exchange
107. existence
108. expansion
109. experience
110. expert
111. fact
112. fall
113. family
114. father
115. fear
116. feeling
117. fiction
118. field
119. fight
120. fire
121. flame
122. flight
123. flower
124. fold
125. food
126. force
127. form
128. friend
129. front
130. fruit
131. glass
132. gold
133. government
134. grain
135. grass
136. grip
137. group
138. growth
139. guide
140. harbor
141. harmony
142. hate
143. hearing
144. heat
145. help
146. history
147. hole
148. hope
149. hour
150. humor
151. ice
152. idea
153. impulse
154. increase
155. industry
156. ink
157. insect
158. instrument
159. insurance
160. interest
161. invention
162. iron
163. jelly
164. join
165. journey
166. judge
167. jump
168. kick
169. kiss
170. knowledge
171. land
172. language
173. laugh
174. low
175. lead
176. learning
177. leather
178. letter
179. level
180. lift
181. light
182. limit
183. linen
184. liquid
185. list
186. look
187. loss
188. love.
189. machine
190. man
191. manager
192. mark
193. market
194. mass
195. meal
196. measure
197. meat
198. meeting
199. memory
200. metal
201. middle
202. milk
203. mind
204. mine
205. minute
206. mist
207. money
208. month
209. morning
210. mother
211. motion
212. mountain
213. move
214. music
215. name
216. nation
217. need
218. news
219. night
220. noise
221. note
222. number
223. observation
224. offer
225. oil
226. operation
227. opinion
228. order
229. organization
230. ornament
231. owner
232. page
233. pain
234. paint
235. paper
236. part
237. paste
238. payment
239. peace
240. person
241. place
242. plant
243. play
244. pleasure
245. point
246. poison
247. polish
248. porter
249. position
250. powder
251. power
252. price
253. print
254. process
255. produce
256. profit
257. property
258. prose
259. protest
260. pull
261. punishment
262. purpose
263. push
264. quality
265. question
266. rain
267. range
268. rate
269. ray
270. reaction
271. reading
272. reason
273. record
274. regret
275. relation
276. religion
277. representative
278. request
279. respect
280. rest
281. reward
282. rhythm
283. rice
284. river
285. road
286. roll
287. room
288. rub
289. rule
290. run
291. salt
292. sand
293. scale
294. science
295. sea
296. seat
297. secretary
298. selection
299. self
300. sense
301. servant
302. sex
303. shade
304. shake
305. shame
306. shock
307. side
308. sign
309. silk
310. silver
311. sister
312. size
313. sky
314. sleep
315. slip
316. slope
317. smash
318. smell
319. smile
320. smoke
321. sneeze
322. snow
323. soap
324. society
325. son
326. song
327. sort
328. sound
329. soup
330. space
331. stage
332. start
333. statement
334. steam
335. steel
336. step
337. stitch
338. stone
339. stop
340. story
341. stretch
342. structure
343. substance
344. sugar
345. suggestion
346. summer
347. support
348. surprise
349. swim
350. system
351. talk
352. taste
353. tax
354. teaching
355. tendency
356. test
357. theory
358. thing
359. thought
360. thunder
361. time
362. tin
363. top
364. touch
365. trade
366. transport
367. trick
368. trouble
369. turn
370. twist
371. unit
372. use
373. value
374. verse
375. vessel
376. view
377. voice
378. walk
379. war
380. wash
381. waste
382. water
383. wave
384. wax
385. way
386. weather
387. week
388. weight
389. wind
390. wine
391. winter
392. woman
393. wood
394. wool
395. word
396. work
397. wound
398. writing
399. year
400. 200 Specific Nouns
401. angle
402. ant
403. apple
404. arch
405. arm
406. army
407. baby
408. bag
409. ball
410. band
411. basin
412. basket
413. bath
414. bed
415. bee
416. bell
417. berry
418. bird
419. blade
420. board
421. boat
422. bone
423. book
424. boot
425. bottle
426. box
427. boy
428. brain
429. brake
430. branch
431. brick
432. bridge
433. brush
434. bucket
435. bulb
436. button
437. cake
438. camera
439. card
440. carriage
441. cart
442. cat
443. chain
444. cheese
445. chess
446. chin
447. church
448. circle
449. clock
450. cloud
451. coat
452. collar
453. comb
454. cord
455. cow
456. cup
457. curtain
458. cushion
459. dog
460. door
461. drain
462. drawer
463. dress
464. drop
465. ear
466. egg
467. engine
468. eye
469. face
470. farm
471. feather
472. finger
473. fish
474. flag
475. floor
476. fly
477. foot
478. fork
479. fowl
480. frame
481. garden
482. girl
483. glove
484. goat
485. gun
486. hair
487. hammer
488. hand
489. hat
490. head
491. heart
492. hook
493. horn
494. horse
495. hospital
496. house
497. island
498. jewel
499. kettle
500. key
501. knee
502. knife
503. knot
504. leaf
505. leg
506. library
507. line
508. lip
509. lock
510. map
511. match
512. monkey
513. moon
514. mouth
515. muscle
516. nail
517. neck
518. needle
519. nerve
520. net
521. nose
522. nut
523. office
524. orange
525. oven
526. parcel
527. pen
528. pencil
529. picture
530. pig
531. pin
532. pipe
533. plane
534. plate
535. plough
536. pocket
537. pot
538. potato
539. prison
540. pump
541. rail
542. rat
543. receipt
544. ring
545. rod
546. roof
547. root
548. sail
549. school
550. scissors
551. screw
552. seed
553. sheep
554. shelf
555. ship
556. shirt
557. shoe
558. skin
559. skirt
560. snake
561. sock
562. spade
563. sponge
564. spoon
565. spring
566. square
567. stamp
568. star
569. station
570. stem
571. stick
572. stocking
573. stomach
574. store
575. street
576. sun
577. table
578. tail
579. thread
580. throat
581. thumb
582. ticket
583. toe
584. tongue
585. tooth
586. town
587. train
588. tray
589. tree
590. trousers
591. umbrella
592. wall
593. watch
594. wheel
595. whip
596. whistle
597. window
598. wing
599. wire
600. worm

Learning a new language like English can be a challenge, but with regular study, it can be done. Classes are important, but so is disciplined practice. It can even be fun. Here are some guidelines to help you improve your reading and comprehension skills and become a better English student.

Study Every Day

Learning any new language is a time-consuming process, more than 300 hours by some estimates. Rather than try and cram a few hours of review once or twice a week, most experts say short, regular study sessions are more effective. As little as 30 minutes a day can help you improve your English skills over time.

Keep Things Fresh

Instead of focusing on one single task for the entire study session, try mixing things up. Study a little grammar, then do a short listening exercise, then perhaps read an article on the same topic. Don’t do too much, 20 minutes on three different exercises is plenty. The variety will keep you engaged and make studying more fun.

Read, Watch, and Listen

Reading English-language newspapers and books, listening to music, or watching TV can also help you improve your written and verbal comprehension skills. By doing so repeatedly, you’ll begin to unconsciously absorb things like pronunciation, speech patterns, accents, and grammar. Keep pen and paper handy and write down words you read or hear that are unfamiliar. Then, do some research to learn what those new words mean. Use them the next time you are role-playing dialogue in class.

Learn the Sounds Separately

Non-native English speakers sometimes struggle with certain word pronunciations because they do not have similar sounds in their native tongue. Likewise, two words may be spelled very similarly, yet be pronounced quite different (for instance, “tough” and “though”), or you may encounter combinations of letters where one of them is silent (for example, the K in “knife”).

Watch Out for Homophones

Homophones are words that are pronounced the same way but are spelled differently and/or have different meanings. There are a number of homophones in the English language, which is one of the reasons why it can so challenging to learn. Consider this sentence: “Pack your clothes, then close the suitcase.” Both “clothes” and “close” sound the same, but they are spelled differently and have different meanings.

Practice Your Prepositions

Even advanced students of English can struggle to learn prepositions, which are used to describe duration, position, direction, and relationships between objects. There are literally dozens of prepositions in the English language (some of the most common include “of,” “on,” and “for”) and few hard rules for when to use them. Instead, experts say, the best way to learn prepositions to memorize them and practice using them in sentences. Study lists such as this one are a good place to begin.

Play Vocabulary and Grammar Games

You can also improve your English skills by playing vocabulary games that are related to what you’re studying in class. For example, if you are going to study English on topics that focus on vacations, take a moment to think about your last trip and what you did. Make a list of all the words you might use to describe your activities.

You can play a similar game with grammar reviews. For example, if you are going to study conjugating verbs in the past tense, stop to think about what you did last weekend. Make a list of the verbs you use and review the various tenses. Don’t be afraid to consult reference materials if you get stuck. These two exercises will help you prepare for class by making you think critically about vocabulary and usage.

Write It Down

Repetition is key as you’re learning English, and writing exercises are a great way to practice.

Take 30 minutes at the end of class or study to write down what happened during your day. It doesn’t matter whether you use a computer or pen and paper. By making a habit of writing, you’ll find your reading and comprehension skills improve over time.

Once you’re comfortable writing about your day, challenge yourself and have some fun with creative writing exercises. Choose a photo from a book or magazine and describe it in a short paragraph, or write a short story or poem about someone you know well. You can also practice your letter-writing skills. You’ll have fun and become a better English student. You may even discover you’ve got a talent for writing.

One of the nicest things you can do in any language is to compliment someone. You might want to compliment someone on what they did, how they look or what they have. Here are forms and phrases to compliment others in English. The examples below are arranged into complimenting ability, complimenting looks, and complimenting possessions in both formal and informal situations.

Complimenting Ability

Use these phrases to compliment someone on an ability they have. If you’d like to learn something from the person about his/her ability, start with a compliment. The person will probably help you learn more and be happy to talk about how to do it.

Formal

If you don’t mind my saying, you are a(n) excellent/outstanding/superb + (noun phrase)

I must say you really know how to + (verb)

You are a fine + (noun phrase)

What a(n) excellent/outstanding/superb + (noun phrase) you are!

I admire your ability to + (verb)

Mr. Smith, if you don’t mind my saying, you are an excellent public speaker.

I must say you really know how to paint.

I admire your ability to think on your feet.

Informal

You’re great at (verb + ing)

You can really (verb)

Wow, I wish I could (verb) as well as you!

You’re an amazing/awesome/incredible + (noun phrase)

Wow! You’re great at skiing!

You can really cook. This is amazing food!

You’re an awesome student.

Complimenting Looks

Use these phrases to compliment someone on how they look. This section is divided into two categories: for women and for men. It’s important to use the right language for the situation. If you pay someone a compliment on their looks in the wrong way, it’s possible that your compliment will not be accepted.

Formal

Notice how we ask permission to pay compliments on good looks in formal English. This is to ensure that no one gets the wrong idea about your intention.

May I be so bold as to compliment your + (dress/hair/outfit/etc.)?

You are looking beautiful/handsome today.

May I pay you a compliment? You really look beautiful/handsome/elegant/etc. today.

I hope you don’t mind, but you are looking beautiful/handsome today.

Ms. Anders, may I be so bold as to compliment you on your dress?

I hope you don’t mind, but I just had to say how wonderful you look today.

May I pay you a compliment, Mary? You really look fantastic today.

Informal

You look great today!

Excuse me, are you a model?

I really love your (dress/hair/outfit/etc.).

What a beautiful (dress/shirt/blouse/haircut/etc.)!

Wow, you look great today! Did you do something different?

Sherry, what a beautiful dress!

I really love your haircut. It makes you look like a movie star.

Complimenting Possessions

Use these phrases to compliment someone on something they have. People are often proud of their possessions, especially major objects such as a house, a car, or even a stereo system.

Complimenting someone on a nice possession is a good way to make small talk.

Formal

I couldn’t help but notice your + (noun phrase)

What a lovely + (noun) + you have!

You have such a wonderful / lovely / beautiful home / house / apartment / living room / etc.

I have to admit I’m jealous of your + (noun phrase)

Tom, I couldn’t help but notice your Mercedes. It’s a beauty!

I have to admit I’m jealous of your lovely garden.

You have such a cozy home.

Informal

Nice + (noun phrase)

I like your + (noun phrase)

That’s nice / pretty / beautiful.

Cudos on the + (noun phrase) dude.

Nice car! Is it yours?

Cudos on the computer dude. Where did you get it?

Do you like my sweater? – That’s nice!

Example 1: Ability

Gary: Hi Tim. Great round today.

Tim: Thanks, Gary.

Gary: You can really hit the golf ball.

Tim: You’re much too kind.

Gary: No really. I wish I could drive as well as you.

Tim: Well, take a few lessons. It’ll happen.

Gary: I’ve thought about it. Do you really think it helps?

Tim: I used to have a horrible drive. Try a lesson, it’s worth the price.

Example 2: Looks

Ms. Smith: Good morning Ms. Anders. How are you today?

Mr. Anders: Fine, thank you. And you?

Ms. Smith: I’m very well. Thank you for asking.

Mr. Anders: Ms. Smith, I hope you don’t mind, but you are looking very well today.

Ms. Smith: Thank you, Mr. Smith. That’s kind of you to say so.

Mr. Anders: Yes, well, have a good day Ms. Smith.

Ms. Smith: Will I see you at the meeting at 3?

Mr. Anders: Yes’, I’ll be there.

Example 3: Possessions

Anna: Thanks for inviting us over for dinner this weekend.

Margaret: My pleasure, come right in.

Anna: What a lovely home you have! I love the furniture.

Margaret: Thank you. We like to call it home. It’s cozy.

Anna: You have such exquisite taste in decor.

Margaret: Now you are exaggerating!

Anna: No, really, it’s so beautiful.

Margaret: Thank you. You’re very kind.