What did the speaker realize about their English speaking skills despite good test scores?

The speaker realized that despite good test scores, they struggled to speak fluently when they went abroad.

How can learners improve their English speaking skills?

Learners can improve their English speaking skills by actively using words in sentences, writing in a journal, and finding enjoyable listening materials.

What advice is given for incorporating a new language into daily life?

Practice incorporating the new language into daily life, start with simple sentences, avoid translating everything, and remember that learning a language requires time and practice.

Mastering English Speaking: Reasons and Solutions

Name: Mastering English Speaking: Reasons and Solutions
Uploaded: 2023-08-07 14:43:42
Description: Traditional language learning methods focused on grammar and memorization are ineffective for improving English speaking skills, and instead, learners should focus on practicing speaking with native speakers, embracing mistakes, and incorporating the language into daily life.

This article is a summary of a YouTube video "Understanding English But Can't Speak? Here's Why and How to Fix It" by Zoe.languages

TLDR Traditional language learning methods focused on grammar and memorization are ineffective for improving English speaking skills, and instead, learners should focus on practicing speaking with native speakers, embracing mistakes, and incorporating the language into daily life.

Key insights

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Understanding English and being able to speak it fluently are two different skills that require separate practice and development.
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The traditional approach to language learning focuses too much on passing exams and memorizing textbooks, rather than enjoying the language itself and effectively communicating with others.
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Speaking a language requires practice and active use of vocabulary, not just memorization, by creating original sentences and listening to native speakers in real-life situations.
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Finding language partners through apps like Tandem or HelloTalk can be helpful for practicing speaking and improving language skills.
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Connecting with native English speakers from different walks of life through platforms like Cambly can not only improve spoken English but also provide interesting and diverse learning experiences.
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Don't be afraid to make mistakes when speaking English, as they are a natural part of the learning process and an opportunity for growth.
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Taking online classes in subjects of interest in a foreign language can simulate the experience of studying at an English-speaking university.
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Avoid translating everything and instead build sentences directly in the language you're learning to improve your thinking and speaking skills.

Q&A

What traditional language learning methods are ineffective for improving English speaking skills?

— Traditional methods focused on grammar and memorization are ineffective for improving English speaking skills.
What should learners focus on to improve English speaking skills?

— Learners should focus on practicing speaking with native speakers, embracing mistakes, and incorporating the language into daily life.
What did the speaker realize about their English speaking skills despite good test scores?

— The speaker realized that despite good test scores, they struggled to speak fluently when they went abroad.
How can learners improve their English speaking skills?

— Learners can improve their English speaking skills by actively using words in sentences, writing in a journal, and finding enjoyable listening materials.
What advice is given for incorporating a new language into daily life?

— Practice incorporating the new language into daily life, start with simple sentences, avoid translating everything, and remember that learning a language requires time and practice.

Timestamped Summary

🗣️

00:00
Despite studying English extensively, the speaker struggled to speak fluently due to a focus on grammar and test-taking strategies rather than practical speaking skills.
😕

01:54
Language learning methods that focus on grammar and memorization of textbooks are ineffective and boring, hindering comprehension and communication skills.
🗣️

02:46
Focusing solely on textbooks and memorization without understanding and absorbing the language prevents us from being able to speak English effectively; instead, we should practice creating original sentences and listening to native speakers in real-life situations.
🗣️

03:55
Practice speaking with language partners to improve your fluency and overcome nerves when conversing with native speakers.
👩‍🏫

04:33
Practice with teachers on Cambly, a platform with native English speakers from various countries, to improve spoken English and learn new things, and if you're shy, try their 1-on-3 small group classes with students from different countries.
🗣️

05:41
Embrace mistakes, actively use words in sentences, write in a journal, and find enjoyable listening materials to improve English speaking skills.
📚

07:29
Changing study methods, reading books for fun, listening to podcasts, taking online classes, and talking to oneself can help improve speaking skills in English.
🗣️

08:47
Practice incorporating the new language into daily life, start with simple sentences and gradually progress, avoid translating and think/speak directly, use the internet to practice, and remember that learning a language takes time and practice.