Four Challenges Of Learning English As A Second Language
English's irregular spelling, complex grammar rules, strict word order, and idiomatic expressions make it challenging for learners, requiring teachers to adapt their methods to meet students' diverse needs.
Numerous language schools throughout Los Angeles offer courses specially designed to help you with all difficulties you may encounter while learning English. But, have you ever thought about what actually makes English so complicated for foreigners?
Well, second language acquisition is a different process from a mother-tongue acquisition. It includes more conscious effort, and students need to master rules that sometimes seem unfathomable. In the following article, we list some reasons why English is so confusing for foreign students. Read on!
Contact us online and get a quote today or call us via WhatsApp!
WHY IS ENGLISH HARD FOR FOREIGNERS?
Students from all over the world struggle with English for many reasons. Let’s look at some of them.
SPELLING AND PRONUNCIATION
English isn’t a phonetic language. If you know how to pronounce the word, it doesn’t necessarily mean you know how to spell it, and vice versa. This means you should practice both spelling and pronunciation while learning new vocabulary. And to make matters worse, there are homographs and homophones.
Homographs are words that share the same spelling but differ in origin, meaning, and sometimes pronunciation, such as the verb bear, which means “to carry or endure”, and the noun bear (a forest animal).
Homophones are words that sound alike but have different meanings, origins, and spellings, such as knew and new or meat and meet. Sounds baffling, doesn’t it?
RULES AND THEIR EXCEPTIONS
English grammar has so many rules and exceptions to rules. For example, the plural form of the noun house is houses, but the plural form of the noun mouse isn’t mouses, as you’d probably assume. It’s mice.
Or, let’s look at the comparison of adjectives. We say: “He’s sadder today than he was yesterday”, but we don’t say: “He’s badder today than he was yesterday”. The grammatically correct sentence would be: “He’s worse today than he was yesterday.”
WORD ORDER
Unlike some other languages, English has a strict word order. We say: “I gave it to him.” We don’t normally say: “To him, I gave it”, as you could do in some other languages (some Slavic languages, for example).
Also, if you want to use more than one adjective in front of a noun, you have to follow rigid rules. We say “a beautiful little girl” and not “a little beautiful girl”.
IDIOMS
Idioms are expressions with fixed word order. The meaning of an idiom is independent of the meanings of each word within it. That’s why students need to work hard to memorize them.
For example, “it’s raining cats and dogs”. This idiom doesn’t mean that cats and dogs are falling to the ground. It means it’s raining heavily.
IS THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE DIFFICULT TO TEACH?
With all the above-listed difficulties ESL students face while practicing English, English language instructors may stumble upon a lot of obstacles while teaching.
Teachers need to be aware of students’ backgrounds. Students from different countries may find certain aspects of the language particularly perplexing.
For example, Chinese students may have trouble with the pronunciation of sc/sk/sp/st clusters in words (school, skype, sport, stool, etc.). Or, vowel sounds are extremely hard for Spanish students because their first language has a static vowel pronunciation system.
For these reasons, teachers need to use various resources and teaching methods to make the entire learning process less strenuous and more logical for their students.
ENROLL IN ONE OF THE MOST FAMOUS ENGLISH LANGUAGE SCHOOLS IN LOS ANGELES
Learning English is bewildering, we know. But with the right teachers by your side, you can overcome all challenges easily. Here at the College of English Language in Los Angeles, we strive to make your learning process more pleasant.
We don’t only explain grammar, but also share fun and surprising facts about English, introduce the history of the English language to our students, or teach them some weird English words just for fun. Visit us on your way to Santa Monica Public Library and let’s enjoy learning English together!
Becoming Fluent In English: How To Improve Speaking And Writing Skills
Improve your English speaking and writing skills effectively at the College of English Language in Los Angeles, with personalized instruction, modern teaching methods, and a supportive learning environment.
What's Your Purpose In Studying Abroad?
Before selecting a destination for studying abroad, it's essential to define your learning goals and evaluate how the experience will benefit you in the future.
CEL San Diego Downtown New Location
CEL Downtown in San Diego, housed in a historic building, provides modern facilities including themed classrooms and a student lounge, ensuring a comfortable and conducive learning environment.
Why You Should Choose San Diego Over LA and San Francisco
Currently interning at CEL San Diego, I've cherished the diverse friendships and learning opportunities, affirming CEL as California's top language school. From Santa Monica to San Diego, my journey embodies the essence of the West Coast.
San Diego Activity: Bonfire Night in Mission Beach
Studying English at CEL San Diego means more than just classes—it’s about creating memories by the ocean. One highlight is Bonfire Night at Mission Beach, where students, teachers, and staff gather around the fire, enjoy s’mores, and celebrate with an international community. It’s the perfect mix of cultural exchange, fun activities, and unforgettable beach vibes in San Diego.
Comic-Con International 2017 in San Diego
Comic Con International in San Diego, one of the largest events in the city, draws massive crowds with its array of cosplay, panels, and activities, generating significant revenue for San Diego annually.
.jpg)
How Do I Choose The Best Language School?
Choose the right English school in California for effective learning; CEL offers accredited programs, experienced staff, and modern teaching methods.
Five Benefits Of Taking An English Language Learning Course
Mastering English is crucial for global communication, business, academics, internet access, and enjoying entertainment, making an intensive course in San Diego a valuable investment.
.jpg)
