How to Learn English Through Storytelling

Before there were software programs and college classes designed to teach languages, people learned a language through exposing themselves often to that language. Today, some people still use this immersion approach. They go to a country where another language is spoken and live there, forcing themselves to learn the language so that they can interact. Even those who choose not to take this extreme route can practice language immersion. By surrounding yourself with the target language, listening to its stories and folktales, you can better your chances at becoming fluent.

Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase CDs or MP3s of English folktales, and/or go to an English storytelling event. Create a weekly schedule of listening time and live events, and stick to it. The more you hear stories in English, the more likely you are to pick up words, phrases and grammar rules.

    • 2

      Use visual clues to help you understand English words and their meanings. If you are listening to a story with an accompanying picture book, study the pictures so that you can associate the words you see and hear with the actions and objects depicted. If you are at a live event, watch the storyteller's face to learn the emotions associated with words and phrases.

    • 3

      Use aural clues to aid understanding. Listen carefully to the tone of the storyteller's voice. Tone changes will help you understand the meanings of words and phrases. For example, an angry tone will help you decipher which words are used to depict anger. Tone changes will also help you understand the importance of tone in English speaking. You will soon notice how stress and pitch can change the meaning of a sentence.

    • 4

      Summarize the story in your own words. Practice and test your English listening comprehension skills by telling the story to someone else or writing your version of it. If you can do this easily, your listening comprehension is flourishing. If not, you may need to practice the techniques in Steps 2 and 3 to improve your listening.

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