T.I.P.S – To Improve, Practice Skills

Tired of studying English through basic grammar practice? There are many other creative ways to practice and improve your language skills than just by using a textbook.

A common complaint of students when they have been studying a language for some time and have reached a good level of communication is that they feel that their skills are becoming worse and not better. This is a typical feeling of intermediate to advanced students, but is rarely true.

Often the reason that students feel their English is becoming worse, not better, is that they have become more critical of their skills. At this level, students become more aware of their grammar when speaking, and therefore recognize when they make mistakes. This is a GOOD thing, not a bad thing! As well, they are usually trying to break bad habits and therefore feel less confident in their speaking.

Honing any skills to become more proficient requires effort and a transition period in which we often feel uncomfortable. However, when you feel like this it simply means you are making a change – usually for the better!

If you would like more information on T.I.P.S for English, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca.