SLK Learning Center

1. Sign up for Merriam-Webster’s “Word of the Day”!

http://www.merriam-webster.com/word-of-the-day/

This is an easy way to increase your vocabulary on a daily basis. Once you sign up, you will receive a new word every day via email. Along with the definition(s), Merriam-Webster provides examples and interesting facts relating to the word, as well as the etymology.

2. Read every day.

In order to improve in any language, you should be reading daily in that language. Start a novel. Read poetry, short stories, magazine/newspaper articles, etc. It doesn’t really matter what you’re reading as long as it’s challenging, fun, and diurnal. Any reading is better than no reading at all!

3. Keep a journal.

You want to explore language not only in speech, but also in writing. Write about your day; your thoughts on what you’ve been reading or learning; your frustrations/dreams/hopes; etc. Like reading, any writing is better than no writing at all. Don’t worry about mistakes in spelling, punctuation, capitalization, or grammar. You can always proofread these things with your teacher—just focus on maintaining variation in your vocabulary and syntax.

4. Watch TV and movies.

You can pick up new words and phrases by watching television and movies in the language you're learning, especially when the movie is subtitled. It's an easy way to hear casual dialogue in context, to learn about a new culture, and to keep up with current events. 

5. Practice with Podcasts.

Subscribe to podcasts on iTunes. There are podcasts that focus solely on learning phrases and vocabulary in English, among other languages. It’s a great way to explore language on your time. Have fun!