5 common mistakes while studying English in Melbourne
As you’d expect, learning a new language is almost as tough as it is rewarding. But if you can’t shake bad habits, it can be even tougher!
If you have a hard time improving your English skills, it could be because you’re making one of these simple mistakes. Fix these, and your English skills will start improving much faster!
Today, we explain what these mistakes are, and how they make studying English in Melbourne harder than it should be!
Mistake #1: not practising speaking in English
There’s an English saying that you’ve (probably) heard before: “Practice makes perfect.”
When you study English in Melbourne, we find that this saying couldn’t be more accurate!
If you only go so far as theoretically learning English – and neglect actually using it – you might find you progress slower.
Speaking English daily gives you the opportunity to master the language. It’s as simple as that.
Academia offers a range of free clubs that test your English skills and help you practice new vocabulary in fun, immersive, and creative ways:
- Pronunciation club
- Conversation club
- Job club
- Movie club
- Social club
On top of testing your English, each of these clubs are also fantastic fun, and a great way to make new friends while you’re studying English in Melbourne!
Mistake #2: not focusing on grammar
A mistake that a lot of students make is only focusing on vocabulary.
Words are only part of fluency – it’s just as important that you know how to use those words.
That means learning your grammar.
While the words may be learned, if your grammar is incorrect, your sentences may make no sense, and force even native speakers to think twice about what you’re saying.
This is especially important if you are studying English for academic or work purposes, as teachers and colleagues may have difficulty understanding your meaning if your grammar is incorrect.
We understand that English grammar can sometimes be odd, which is why we wrote this article explaining some of the stranger parts of it.
Mistake #3: focusing on tests
Many students studying English in Melbourne make the mistake of aiming for great test results, without aiming to become fluent in the language.
English fluency means speaking and using the language easily, confidently and quickly without having to stop, stammer and even pause.
While tests and exams can help you get there, they aren’t the goal – rather, they are just steps taken on the path towards becoming fluent in English.
The problem with focusing on tests is that you will only ever test specific skills.
While these are important, they do not always represent everyday, normal English use.
In the real world, you won’t always have time to practice before, and you won’t always know in advance what you’re going to be talking about.
Instead, we suggest surrounding yourself with English.
That means changing your phone settings to English, watching English-language TV and movies, listening to English speaking music, and using it as much as you can in conversation with fellow students.
Only then can you become more confident in your English skills!
Mistake #4: shying away from native speakers
Do you avoid native English speakers where possible? Worried that they will make fun of your English skills?
We understand that you might feel embarrassed if you get something wrong, however the truth is – you’re probably more concerned about it than they are!
In fact, speaking with and listening to native speakers is one of the best ways to learn.
So instead of being scared of native speakers, try your best to listen and understand what they are saying. The Australian accent is quite unique, so don’t be afraid to ask others to slow down.
Not to mention, Aussies have a reputation for being laid-back and relaxed – so any native speakers would only be happy to help!
Mistake #5: not setting your phone and computer to English
We mentioned this in point #4, but this is so useful, that we believe it should get its own point!
Think about how much we use our phones and computers.
In fact, the average Australian spends 2.5 hours on their phone each day, whether it’s for work, reading the news or passing time on the train ride home.
If your phone isn’t set to English, that’s a huge missed opportunity right there!
When you set all your apps and websites to English, you are essentially testing your English skills every time you use your phone.
That’s an extra couple of hours a day practising the language – without even realising it! Over the months, this can make a big difference.
If you haven’t made the change yet, we recommend going into the settings menu and doing it now so you can start improving your English reading skills.
Thinking about studying English in Melbourne?
Don’t make these mistakes – enroll in one of Academia’s English courses in Melbourne today!
Academia is committed to excellent teaching and support service to international students who wish to learn English in Australia.
We’ve been recognised for this with several industry awards for international education, as well as the highest NEAS endorsement for our results in the English Language Teaching (ELT) sector.
Our English courses offer a warm, friendly, and supportive learning atmosphere to help you kick your English learning goals.
Best of all, we offer a range of different courses to choose from!
General English (GE)
Our General English course helps you learn the basics of communicating in English in your daily interactions.
This course will help you acquire language skills essential in thriving in Australia.
With a new intake starting each Monday throughout the year, this course is the perfect place to get started with your English learning.
Learn more about our General English course.
English for Academic Purposes (EAP)
Aiming to take further education at an Australian university? You might be interested in studying English for Academic Purposes!
Unlike General English, this course focuses on the skills you will need to successfully enter an Australian university. You’ll learn how to write essays, reports, and presentations to a high standard, allowing you to succeed in your university career.
Learn more about studying English for Academic Purposes.
English for IELTS preparation
Planning to work in or emigrate to Australia?
Many workplaces will require you to pass the IELTS, one of the world’s most recognised English tests.
To prepare, we suggest enrolling in our English for IELTS course, which is tailored towards the tasks you’ll face during this test.
Ace your IELTS exam with the help of Academia! Discover English for IELTS Preparation.
Study English in Australia: enrol at Academia today
If you want to learn more about our English courses in Melbourne or Brisbane, you can get in touch with us today. Our friendly staff will be more than happy to assist you!
Contact us using the following numbers:
Or click here for detailed information for international students.
