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Learning English is no easy task, therefore as an international student it is extremely important that you set goals for yourself to make the most out of your time in English class. Joining an English class is only the beginning of your language learning journey. You have to be prepared to put in the effort and setting concrete goals is the biggest favor you can do for yourself to make the most out of your time in English class. Having set quotas that you create for yourself can be a means of enhancing not only your learning experience but also boosting your confidence.
Why Goal Setting is Important for Learning English
Setting goals in English class plays a critical role, especially for international students. First of all, these goals can help you track your progress and stay motivated. It can be very easy to lose hope in yourself and feel unmotivated, because language learning is not a simple task. Secondly, setting goals can provide a clear focus for areas that need improvement such as speaking, writing, listening, etc. When you have your concrete goals set, you can go into English class each day and know the correct questions to ask and your teachers can better help you achieve said goals. This benefits not only yourself, but your peers and teachers as well. Finally, it can build a sense of accomplishment and confidence over time. It can be very easy to lose hope in yourself and your language skills, but when you look back at the goals that you have achieved you can be reminded of how far you have come.
5 Key Goals to Set in English Class
Of course these goals can be tailored to you and what you want to achieve, but here are some examples of goals you can set as an international student taking English classes:
Expand Vocabulary: Set a goal to learn 10 new vocabulary words per week. Try to keep track of new words and phrases you have learned both inside and outside of the classroom. This not only helps you remember vocabulary, but it also shows you how far you have come and how much you have learned and improved.
When you are in English class, set a goal to write down new words you hear from the teacher or your peers. You can then either ask for the definition as you hear them, or look it up when you get home. As a result, you will be able to add these new words to your vocabulary and also keep track of your learning development.
Improve Speaking Skills: Set a goal to practice speaking English for a set amount of time each day, for example 15 minutes. This is something you should be trying to focus on both inside and outside of the classroom. When in English class, try to focus on only speaking English, even if your peers speak the same native language as you. Moreover, if at all possible, try to speak English with native speakers, even if it is just with your teacher or those who work at your school.
When moving as an international student, it can be easy to stay in a bubble of those who come from the same country as you, but try to avoid this both inside and outside of the classroom. Some suggestions for this are to try to participate in class - raise your hand, answer questions, and speak with your teacher. Also, interact with those outside the classroom - make small talk with a worker at the coffee shop and talk to the person sitting next to you on the bus. When you set this concrete goal of speaking English for a certain period of time each day, you are more likely to see improvement and boost your confidence.
Master Writing Techniques: Mastering writing techniques should also be prioritized. Set a goal to write one structured essay per month. Writing is a skill that requires both practice and feedback. Use class assignments as an opportunity to develop your skills in organizing your thoughts, using proper grammar, and expanding your vocabulary. Pay attention to the feedback provided by your teachers and revise your work accordingly. Over time, you will notice improvements in your ability to communicate effectively in written English.
Enhance Listening Comprehension: During class, pay close attention to your teacher’s instructions, peer presentations, and group discussions. Take notes to help retain information and focus on understanding new words or phrases. If your class uses audio materials, make an effort to engage actively by identifying key points and summarizing what you hear. Practicing attentive listening in class will improve your ability to follow conversations and understand spoken English.
Achieve Academic Milestones: Work with your teacher to set specific targets, such as passing an English proficiency exam like the TOEFL or IELTS. Use classroom resources, participate in practice tests, and seek guidance on areas where you need improvement. Preparing for these exams in class ensures you are building the necessary skills while receiving support from your teacher and classmates to achieve your goals.
Tools and Resources to Help Achieve Goals
Several tools and resources can support you in achieving your goals. Utilize classroom materials such as textbooks, workbooks, and teacher-provided exercises. Participate in group activities and discussions to reinforce what you learn. Take advantage of additional resources like school activities, workshops, or tutoring sessions offered by your institution. These tools will complement your efforts in class and provide extra practice opportunities.
Tracking Progress and Staying Motivated
Keep track of your progress in class by maintaining a journal or checklist of your goals. Record milestones, such as vocabulary words learned or writing assignments completed. Celebrate small achievements to stay motivated and remind yourself of the progress you are making. Reflect on your goals regularly and adjust them based on feedback from your teacher or your personal evaluation.
Overcoming Challenges
Language learning in a classroom setting can present challenges such as fear of making mistakes or difficulty keeping up with peers. Address these obstacles by staying consistent in your efforts and seeking help from your teacher when needed. Remember that mistakes are part of the learning process, and every error brings you closer to improvement. Engage actively in class activities and remind yourself of the long-term benefits of mastering English.
Conclusion
Setting goals is a crucial step in mastering English as an international student. By establishing clear objectives and committing to consistent practice in class, you can make significant progress in your language learning journey. Start with small, achievable goals within the classroom and gradually work toward bigger milestones. With dedication and effort, you will build the confidence and skills needed to succeed in English class and beyond. If you are ready to start your journey as an international student and achieve some of these goals yourself, apply to Columbia West College!