MY husband carries himself well when he speaks to people. His secret is his ability to converse in English eloquently. He belongs to the 1980s era, when youth were well-versed in English and most families spoke English at home.
He studied in an all-boys missionary school where English was taught by nuns and native speakers. Learning English was a breeze for them. My husband and his friends had the advantage of learning the language in an English-speaking environment. He suggested integrating songs when I teach English. That was how he learned English those days. I agree that songs stimulate interest and brings out the fun of learning in a classroom.
We should make English “a part of our life”, merely having it in the form of a certificate does not make one better if the language is not used daily. When I was doing my master’s degree, my Australian lecturer used to tell us that language has to be acquired and it takes time. Research has proven that too. By immersing ourselves in the language, we will be forced to learn it. If we limit ourselves to our social group, chances of acquiring the language are slim.
So, expand your horizons. Mix around and converse more in English. English is the dominant business language and it is paramount to speak fluent English if one wants to enter the global workforce. Research has shown that cross-border business communication is conducted in English. Therefore, learning English cannot be understated.
Many of the world’s top films, books and music are published in English. By acquiring English, we will have access to a great wealth of culture and entertainment. Most online content is in English, so with English, we can access incredible resources and information at the click of a button.
During my trip to Italy in December, the tour guide told us that Italy was emphasising the learning of English as the country was a member of the European Union. When I visited Rome, Milan, Venice and Florence, I heard locals speaking English. Although most spoke broken English, it was still a commendable effort.
Countries like India still have English medium schools. Today, their graduates have carved niches in Silicon Valley. India’s skilled graduates are marketable and in demand because of their English. Although learning English can be challenging and time consuming, it is worthwhile as it opens up a world of opportunities.
Ludwig Wittgenstein, a great philosopher, once said: “The limits of my language mean the limits of my world.” Speaking another language allows us to push the limits of our world and permits a greater understanding of the world around us.
As language teachers, we must constantly improve and upgrade ourselves with the latest methodologies to cater to our students’ needs. Attend courses, conferences, workshops and seminars to equip ourselves with the latest information. Language proficiency or the lack of it has always been an issue for English teachers. We need a certain level of proficiency in the language to teach. A teacher’s subject knowledge is recognised as an essential component of effective teaching.
Studies show that if the teachers’ second language knowledge is not on a par with acceptable standards, then their poor use and knowledge of the language are transferred to the learners. Therefore, teachers must keep learning and improving, so that they will be better teachers.
SUMATI MUNIANDY
Johor Baru, Johor