How to Learn to Converse in English

Practice your English conversation skills

Learning to converse in English is probably the hardest part of learning English as a foreign language, but also the most essential. To have an English conversation, you must have good listening skills as well as a good grasp on vocabulary to be able to say what's on your mind. English conversation takes practice, but over time you'll see your skill level improve.

Instructions

1. Purchase a phrase book of common conversational scenarios. As you probably know from conversations in your native tongue, there are certain situations that use the same phrases, such as ordering in a restaurant, asking for directions and greeting a friend. A phrase book can help you learn and practice these conversations. When you are learning English, it's a good idea to carry this book around with you. If someone cannot understand you because you accidentally pronounce a word wrong, you can show them the phrase in the book.

2. Watch American television and movies to practice listening skills and to learn colloquial phrases. Native English speakers speak quickly and use phrases that you may not be familiar with. By watching American movies and television shows, you can improve your listening skills. Try choosing one episode of a favorite sitcom and watching it at least once a day. Start by watching it with the subtitles, then, as you begin to understand more, watch it without them. Pause and try to repeat the phrases.

3. Take an English class to gain more knowledge and practice in English. An English class will do wonders to improve your conversational skills. Your English teacher will teach you new grammar points, making it easier to say what you really mean. Additionally, you'll be able to practice your conversation skills with other students in the class, who are probably at the same level of English that you are. This can help improve your confidence.

4. Look for a language exchange partner. Try to find an English speaker who wants to learn your language. You can then meet up, either in person, on the phone or through video chat, to practice conversation in each other's languages.

5. Make friends with native English speakers. There's simply no substitute for real English conversation. If you want to go beyond the simple tourist phrases, look for friends from English-speaking countries. Look for events in your city that are for English speakers. If there aren't any English speakers in your area, try to make some friends online through penpal websites.

References

• Learn English