Dear English curiosity-seekers, enthusiasts, and full-blown Anglophiles,
As a language consultant in Austria, I am quite frequently asked the question: How do I improve my speaking skills and vocabulary? Previous to this, I am hovering outside the classroom, pre-lesson, and I can overhear my students talking amongst each other in German. This also occurs during the breaks in the class. As soon as I exit the room to use the facilities, the students resort to speaking in the native language.
Thus is might seem more than a little ironic that I am asked this question, and the answer seems to be blindingly obvious — if you want to improve your Speaking skills in your L2, then speak more often your L2!
Of course, the counter-argument to this is: “I do not use English at work with my colleagues,” although the student does need English for their working life.
While it is true that, very obviously, the problem with practising English speaking skills in Austria in in fact Austria itself, you can still make sure you, at the very least, during your weekly English lesson, speak English for the entire lesson and do not revert to your native language. I think you will find that even this little practice will help you improve your language skills and support your confidence. And as a language consultant, there is nothing more fulfilling to me than listening to my students and seeing my students apply themselves to their English learning. It’s fantastic to see students develop and improve.
As for improving vocabulary, the only effective way is to apply yourself to learning and recycling words, phrases and collocations, not only by heart (because what good is knowing a lot of vocabulary if you cannot use the word?!) but also by recycling the words, writing sentences with them, writing stories and journal entries.
Finally, find the balance and be realistic in your training of your L2. Few professionals that I teach have neither time nor energy to cram in an hour of English study after having worked a 10 hour-day at an business which does not support their English language acquisition adequately enough anyway. Thus, try perhaps 15 to 20 minutes in the day to study. Pick a particular skill (Reading, Writing, Use of English, Listening or Speaking) and practice that.
There are no short cuts when learning a language, despite what the newest language ‘method’ or scam may offer you or advertise, i.e. “New studies show that…” or “Scientific research indicates that…” are the quickest way to learn a language. Or, I love this one, “Learn a language while you sleep! Just put this device under your pillow for two months and you will be fluent in any language you choose!” All of these do not work and are no substitute for consistent learning, creative study, and appyling yourself! After all, not everyone can fly off to the country of the language they are learning and immerse themselves in the language there for a year or so! So, you need to do what you can and do it sensibly and realistically.
Good luck and remember to enjoy!