English is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, and learning it can open doors to new opportunities in education, career, and travel. Thanks to the abundance of online resources and tools, improving your English language skills has become more accessible than ever.
Whether you're a beginner or looking to improve your English, there are numerous effective ways to embark on this linguistic journey. In this blog post, we'll explore 16 ways to learn English for free.
1. Enroll in Online English Courses
Explore online language courses on platforms like USA Learns and English Central. These courses provide structured learning materials and guidance to build your vocabulary, grammar and comprehension skills, and registering for a free account allows you to track your progress.
2. Listen to English Podcasts
English language podcasts cover a variety of topics and accents. Choose podcasts that
interest you to improve your listening and comprehension skills. Duolingo’s English podcast Relatos en Inglés is bilingual English-Spanish and has transcripts for all its podcasts.
3. Listen to English Music
Music is a great way to improve your pronunciation and understanding of spoken English. Pay attention to lyrics and try to sing along. The game-based LingoClip app allows you to translate the lyrics into your own language and create vocabulary lists.
4. Watch English Language YouTube Channels
Follow YouTube channels like WoodwardEnglish (for grammar lesson) and Learn English with TV Series to access video lessons covering various aspects of English language learning.
5. Read News for Language Learners
Stay updated on global affairs, build your vocabulary and improve your reading skills by accessing online news articles for language learners on Simple English News and ESL News Stories.
6. Use Language Learning Apps
Download language learning apps such as English Central, Voice of America (VOA), and Duolingo for interactive lessons, quizzes, and exercises.
7. Use your local public library’s resources
Teton County Public Library has a specific section for English language learners with textbooks, audiobooks, bilingual dictionaries, and more! With your library card, you can also access online language programs. If you don’t have a physical address in the county (like me!) you can purchase a library card for $20/year.
Reading is an excellent way to expand your vocabulary and improve your comprehension skills.
You can start with reading children's books and gradually progress to young adult novels. Borrowing English movie DVDs and audiobooks are convenient options as well.
8. Use English Learning Websites
Websites like BBC Learning English, ESL-Lab, ELLLO, and British Council offer free resources such as lessons, quizzes, comprehension checks, and vocabulary lists for a range of English levels and personal interests.
9. Use Speech-to-Text to Practice Speaking
Use speech-to-text capabilities on your phone or tablet by using the microphone option next to the space bar. You can speak your texts into your texting app and speak your notes into your notes app. You can also use the voice typing tool in a word processing application like Google Docs to practice pronunciation, such as by reading a story to your computer. The applications typically signal spelling and grammar errors, as well as give you suggestions.
10. Join Online Language Communities
Participate in language learning forums and Facebook groups to ask questions, seek advice, and share experiences with fellow learners. Join our InglesDigitalJH Facebook group!
11. Apply for a Language Exchange Partner
Connect with native English speakers for language exchanges. You can help them learn your native language, and they can help you with English. If you live locally and can meet your partner face-to-face in Jackson (days and times are flexible), you can apply for a partner during open enrollment at LanguageExchangeJH.
12. Vocabulary Apps and websites
Utilize apps like Quizlet and Drops and the LearningChocolate website to build and expand your English vocabulary.
Quizlet: Kitchen worker vocabulary
Quizlet: Housekeeping Supplies Cart
Quizlet: Construction Worker Instructions
13. Join Online Language Challenges
Participate in language learning challenges which can help you find resources that are at your level and help you stay motivated and focused while learning with a group of other English learners. Join the 30-Day English Challenge with Teton English (Coming soon!)
14. Subscribe to Language Learning Blogs and E-Newsletters
Subscribe to language learning blogs and newsletters that provide valuable tips, resources, and regular lessons. You can receive English tips and resources, and information about local events around Jackson Hole by subscribing to the Teton English newsletter.
15. Watch English Movies and TV Shows
Watching English movies and TV shows is a fun way to improve your listening skills and learn colloquial expressions. Consider using subtitles in the beginning to aid comprehension. Through Teton County Public Library, you can watch movies through their linked apps Hoopla, Kanopy and The Shelf or borrow DVDs from within the library with your library card.
Although not free, almost everyone has some way of watching English movies and TV shows online wtih Netflix, Amazon, Peacock, or Hulu.
16. Attend English Classes
Formal education is often the most structured and reliable way to learn a language. Enrolling in adult English programs at a local community college, public library, or church are generally free options. These classes offer a comprehensive curriculum and the guidance of experienced instructors.
In Jackson Hole, we have three organizations that offer adult English classes: Central Wyoming College, Teton Literacy Center and Teton English. Check their websites for registration information.
Remember that consistency is key when learning a new language. By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you can create a productive learning environment and make significant steps in your journey to mastering the English language. Don't be discouraged by occasional mistakes, as they are an essential part of the learning process. Explore these resources, practice consistently, and embrace the learning process with enthusiasm and dedication.