Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[ilisya]

I'm from Malaysia and fresh graduated from University.I need an opinion about what do adults need to do in order to learn a second language?
It's said that adults who intend to learn a second language with a good
accent and pronunciation are going to face much more difficulties than
a young person.

First, because they are shy and they are afraid of making mistakes. Second, because they need a lot of explanation about grammar and everything. So, the fluency ends up being damaged. On the other hand, when an adult overcome these barriers and assimilate the language, he/she will hardly forget what he/she has learned. I've been facing this problem too.I have difficulty in pronunciation, and I usually don't have the opportunity to practice the second language out of the classroom and I'm afraid of telling the doubts or making a mistake in front of the classmates.

So, I would like to ask you for help on how to motivate and
how to make me feel more comfortable to ask questions, to participate
more and also how to get my pronunication better.
I know it's hard, but I believe it's possible, isn't it?
Could you help me, please?
Thank you.

[Philo Kevetch]

Hello ilisya -

Have you studied basic phonics? Many older students skip this step because it seems like something for children.

If not, find a tape or CD and start there to improve your pronunciation.

Also, try listening to an English language "soap opera" (daily drama) and repeating the words you hear.

As for being shy about asking questions and making mistakes in class......
"fortune favo(u)rs the brave"!

From your post, you seem truly serious about improving your language skills.....so, be brave and get what you want!

Let me know how you are doing. :) Philo

[Jintii]

There are some online sites which have chatrooms for people learning English and people who are interested in the language. (Paltalk is one such site.) These people can help you find out whether your accent is understandable and can also help you with your pronunciation and grammar. You can just listen for awhile until you get up your courage to speak , and when you do speak, you might feel less shy about it because you are at home in front of your computer.

But you know, getting the accent and grammar correct is less important than communicating. If you have something to say, it is better to do it with an accent and some grammar mistakes than to stay silent and miss the chance to communicate your idea.

Good luck with your English.