English

Learning English in an English-speaking country is both faster and easier than learning English in countries where English is not the first language. My experience of learning English in Canada has been a much more positive experience than learning English in my home country, Afghanistan. This is based on the teachers’ proficiency, classroom practices and exposure to the language outside of the classroom.

Learning English in Afghanistan can be negatively affected by a variety of factors. First, the instructors in my home country are not as fluent as native language teachers. Even though they try their best, they still don’t compare. They are not able to pronounce many English words correctly or use idiomatic expressions. Also, their English vocabulary and fluency is limited. When I was a high school student, our teachers used to stand in front of the class and explain grammar and basic writing skills in Persian. Then we were given exercises for homework. Teachers in Canada on the other hand, speak English fluently and use perfect pronunciation. They teach both formal and informal English and introduce new language learners to a wide range of idiomatic lingo. Rather than standing in front of a classroom explaining grammar and writing skills, they involve students in the process of learning always and only in English.

The lack of speaking and listening practice was not the only problem in Afghanistan. The curriculum in general was not very inspiring. Instructors did not use technology to share or correct assignments. Nor did they provide opportunities for students to do pair or group work.

In contrast, speaking and listening lessons and activities make up fifty percent of the LINC curriculum. Students are exposed to a variety of audios including conversational dialogues (formal and informal), interesting articles about Canadian culture, holidays, the environment, geography, etc. The assignments are always different. For example, sometimes I am assigned interactive online quizzes and exercises, sometimes I am asked to write letters and emails, or create recipes. I am also asked to answer listening comprehension questions, and participate in role-play.

The best thing about learning English in Canada is being able to use all of the skills I learn in the classroom in the real world. In my community, I get to have friendly conversations with my neighbours, shop keepers, and the parents at my kid’s school. This is a great way to improve my everyday conversational skills. Conversely, at work, I use very polite formal English to speak with my patients and my co-workers. Everyday driving to work, I listen to the news in English and read a variety of online articles in English. Further, all of my readings for my dentistry exam preparation classes are in English.

As you can see learning English in Canada is fun, informative, and very effective, while learning English in Afghanistan is anything but.